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NFL Playoff Hope Fades: Teams Under Pressure
2 Dec
Summary
- Steelers' roster built on aging stars faces cap crisis.
- Jared Goff's cold-weather struggles threaten Lions' playoff path.
- Colts' aggressive trade gamble backfires amid QB injury.
As Week 13 concluded, several NFL playoff contenders are experiencing significant pressure. The Pittsburgh Steelers face a bleak short-term and long-term outlook due to expensive veteran contracts and declining player performance, raising questions about coach Mike Tomlin's long-term strategy. Their 2025 offseason moves appear to have failed, leaving them in a precarious position.
The Detroit Lions, despite a strong roster, are experiencing a "panic" moment due to Jared Goff's documented struggles in cold weather and the offensive line's decline. Their path through the postseason could be severely hindered by these weaknesses, especially with a lack of elite depth on defense.
Meanwhile, the Indianapolis Colts' aggressive trade deadline gamble has hit turbulence. Quarterback Daniel Jones' injury and the regression of the offensive line, combined with resurgent division rivals, have put their lead in jeopardy. The key trade for Sauce Gardner also faces complications with his current injury status.
