NFL playoff run: Commanders, Jets, Falcons and Browns eliminated; Texans, Chiefs next

Updated on: Dec 08, 2025 6:36 AM IST

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Referees gather for photo before officiating the Los Angeles Rams at the Arizona Cardinals NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 7. (Representational) (AP)

Washington was eliminated from the NFL playoffs, joining the Jets, Falcons and Browns. Chiefs vs. Texans now decides who reaches the playoffs from the AFC.

The NFL Week 14 is turning out to be pivotal when it comes to the playoff race. With just four more weeks of regular-season games remaining, it is becoming clearer who makes it to the playoffs and, if there are any surprises in store.

On Sunday, the big setback was the Washington Commanders, who crashed out of the playoff race after a defeat to the Minnesota Vikings. The Commanders now join the New York Jets, the Atlanta Falcons and the Cleveland Browns, who were eliminated in the games scheduled earlier on Sunday.

Meanwhile, another game comes up in the AFC with the Kansas City Chiefs taking on the Houston Texans. The winner of the game will make it to the playoffs from the AFC North, while the loser won't. On one hand, chances of Chiefs bowing out of playoff contention could potentially be huge for the league. On the other, Houston, given their rare playoff appearances in recent years, could make it this year.

Further clarity on who else makes it to the playoffs will come with the games in the next few weeks.

Which Teams Have Qualified For The Playoffs?

AFC Playoffs Qualification Picture

AFC North: The Pittsburgh Steelers have made it as leaders.

AFC South: Jacksonville Jaguars leads in the AFC South.

AFC East: The New England Patriots are leading the AFC East.

AFC West: The Denver Broncos lead the AFC West after beating the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday afternoon.

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NFC Playoffs Qualification Picture

NFC North: The Green Bay Packers lead the NFC North.

NFC South: Tampa Bay Buccaneers lead the NFC South despite losing to the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.

NFC East: The Philadelphia Eagles are leading the NFC East. But coming on the back of two losses, their place in the playoffs is not fully secured.

NFC West: The Los Angeles Rams lead the NFC North and are likely to make it to the playoffs.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shamik Banerjee
Shamik is a journalist with a diverse background in digital newsrooms. At Hindustan Times, he covers U.S. news and global affairs. A curious mind, he’s always researching some new, obscure obsession. Off duty, you'll find him reading, watching films, or indulging in his passion for sports.Read More

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