Posted on Dec 22

Cowboys eliminated from playoffs after loss to Chargers, disappointing season ends

Posted Dec 22, 2025

The Dallas Cowboys face uncertainty after playoff elimination, marking a critical juncture for the franchise.

Why it matters: The Cowboys’ recent performance has not only ended their playoff hopes but also raised significant questions about the team's future direction and coaching staff.

Following a 34-17 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, coupled with a victory by the Philadelphia Eagles, the Cowboys find themselves at a crossroads.
With two games remaining in the season, the Cowboys risk finishing with a non-winning record for the first time since 2000-2002.

What’s new: Despite statistical achievements, including Dak Prescott surpassing 4,000 passing yards and both CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens reaching over 1,000 receiving yards, the Cowboys have struggled to translate individual success into team victories.

This marks only the second time in franchise history that the team has had a 4,000-yard passer, a 1,000-yard running back (Javonte Williams), and two 1,000-yard receivers in a single season, with the last occurrence being in 2019.
Yet, these accolades stand in stark contrast to the team's inability to secure wins when they count most.

Yes, but: The challenges faced by the Cowboys are multifaceted and extend beyond player performance.

Defensive struggles have been highlighted, particularly with key injuries affecting players like Quinnen Williams and DeMarvion Overshown.
Jerry Jones emphasized, "We all underachieved, really. And the fact we're not in the playoffs says that for you," indicating a collective disappointment within the organization.

What to watch: As the season draws to a close, the evaluation of the coaching staff will be a focal point for the Cowboys.

Defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus's future is uncertain, as Jerry Jones noted the importance of assessing the entire coaching staff at this time of year.
First-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer has received praise from Jones, suggesting that while changes may be imminent, some stability might also remain.

The big picture: The Cowboys struggles highlight broader trends within the franchise that have persisted over decades.

Since winning Super Bowl XXX, the Cowboys have made the playoffs 13 times but have never advanced beyond the divisional round. This lack of postseason success continues to loom large over the franchise.
With increased scrutiny on both the coaching staff and player performance, the pressure mounts for the Cowboys to make substantive changes ahead of next season.

The bottom line: As the Cowboys reflect on a season filled with highs and lows, the path forward remains uncertain.

Jerry Jones expressed optimism for the future, stating, "I'm looking forward next year of getting back in that championship game and maybe beyond," showing a commitment to improving the team's competitive standing.
However, without addressing the underlying issues that plagued this season, achieving those aspirations may prove challenging.

Cowboys eliminated from playoffs after loss to Chargers, disappointing season ends

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 22, 2025

The Dallas Cowboys face uncertainty after playoff elimination, marking a critical juncture for the franchise.

Why it matters: The Cowboys’ recent performance has not only ended their playoff hopes but also raised significant questions about the team's future direction and coaching staff.

Following a 34-17 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, coupled with a victory by the Philadelphia Eagles, the Cowboys find themselves at a crossroads.

With two games remaining in the season, the Cowboys risk finishing with a non-winning record for the first time since 2000-2002.

This marks only the second time in franchise history that the team has had a 4,000-yard passer, a 1,000-yard running back (Javonte Williams), and two 1,000-yard receivers in a single season, with the last occurrence being in 2019.

Yet, these accolades stand in stark contrast to the team's inability to secure wins when they count most.

Yes, but: The challenges faced by the Cowboys are multifaceted and extend beyond player performance.

Defensive struggles have been highlighted, particularly with key injuries affecting players like Quinnen Williams and DeMarvion Overshown.

Jerry Jones emphasized, "We all underachieved, really. And the fact we're not in the playoffs says that for you," indicating a collective disappointment within the organization.

What to watch: As the season draws to a close, the evaluation of the coaching staff will be a focal point for the Cowboys.

Defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus's future is uncertain, as Jerry Jones noted the importance of assessing the entire coaching staff at this time of year.

First-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer has received praise from Jones, suggesting that while changes may be imminent, some stability might also remain.

The big picture: The Cowboys struggles highlight broader trends within the franchise that have persisted over decades.

Since winning Super Bowl XXX, the Cowboys have made the playoffs 13 times but have never advanced beyond the divisional round. This lack of postseason success continues to loom large over the franchise.

With increased scrutiny on both the coaching staff and player performance, the pressure mounts for the Cowboys to make substantive changes ahead of next season.

The bottom line: As the Cowboys reflect on a season filled with highs and lows, the path forward remains uncertain.

Jerry Jones expressed optimism for the future, stating, "I'm looking forward next year of getting back in that championship game and maybe beyond," showing a commitment to improving the team's competitive standing.

However, without addressing the underlying issues that plagued this season, achieving those aspirations may prove challenging.