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NFL Playoff Picture: Dallas Cowboys, San Francisco 49ers eliminated from contention

Wade-Peeryby: Wade Peery12/22/24
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(Photo by Andy Lewis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

The San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys were both officially eliminated from the 2025 NFL Playoffs on Sunday night. Scott Hanson of NFL RedZone relayed the news once it happened. The Washington Commanders defeating the Philadelphia Eagles, thanks to the heroics of Jayden Daniels, sealed the playoff fate for both the Cowboys and 49ers.

Daniels once again made sure that he’s all but wrapped up the Rookie of the Year. The Washington rookie signal-caller racked up over 300 all-purpose yards, to go along with five passing touchdowns and two interceptions. Washington receiver Olamide Zaccheaus hauled in five catches for 70 yards and two touchdowns.

The San Francisco 49ers have dealt with extensive injuries

The 49ers have been decimated by injuries for much of the 2024 campaign, with running back Christian McCaffrey’s injury issues being some of the most problematic. They’ve had an extensive number of injuries on their roster.

On Sunday against the Miami Dolphins, the 49ers were without running back Isaac Guerendo and left tackle Trent Williams. Guerendo, already dealing with a foot sprain, suffered a hamstring injury last week against the LA Rams. The injury sidelined him for this week’s practice, which led to him being ruled out on Sunday. He’s their fourth running back that has had to miss time due to injuries.

The 49ers played Patrick Taylor, Jr. at running back. The former undrafted free agent signed with the 49ers this offseason and has seen action in five games. Linebacker Dre Greenlaw was also injured early in the Dolphins game on Sunday. He’s dealt with his fair share of injuries the past few years. Greenlaw was ruled as questionable to return to the game with a right calf injury, according to the San Francisco Twitter page.

The Dallas Cowboys currently sit at 6-8 overall, ranking them 3rd in the NFC East. They hit a rough stretch in the middle of the season when they dropped to 3-7 overall, but Dallas has at least won three of their last four games to make things interesting in their playoff race.