NFL’s first playoff casualty: Giants officially knocked out after Week 12
After Week 12, there are several NFL teams on the brink of being eliminated from the playoffs, but one team is officially already out.
The NFL’s playoff race is tightening heading into Week 13, and one team is already officially out. Following their overtime loss to the Detroit Lions, the New York Giants became the first franchise eliminated from postseason contention in the 2025 season.
It marks yet another low point in a turbulent campaign that spiraled early and never recovered.
Giants officially eliminated after Week 12 loss
The Giants entered Week 12 clinging to microscopic postseason hopes, but their overtime defeat to Detroit sealed their fate. At 2–10, New York is now mathematically eliminated, closing the door on any possibility of a late-season rally.
It’s the earliest the Giants have been eliminated in more than a decade...a sign of how quickly their rebuild has failed.
Struggles on offense, instability at quarterback, and injuries across both lines contributed to a season in which New York could never build momentum. Even a handful of competitive games weren’t enough to offset a record that sank them to the bottom of the NFC.
Who’s next? Several teams near mathematical elimination
The Giants are the only team officially out, but several others are just steps away from joining them.
According to current playoff projections:
- Minnesota Vikings: on life support with only a slim mathematical chance to get in.
- Tennessee Titans: last in the AFC, needing an improbable perfect finish.
- Cleveland Browns: hindered by injuries and inconsistent offense.
- New York Jets: offense has derailed what was once a top-tier defense.
None of those teams are technically eliminated yet, but their odds sit below 20%, and one more loss could shut the door entirely.
Tough road ahead for the Giants
With six weeks still left in the season, the Giants now shift from playoff dreams to long-term evaluation:
- Which players fit the future core?
- What decisions await at quarterback?
- Will major offseason changes follow?
The Giants’ early elimination means the organization’s attention turns fully toward 2026, from roster construction to draft positioning. The rest of the year will be about how the front office responds to another disastrous season.
Related stories
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment