Ranking the NFL Playoff Contenders
With the NFL regular season winding down, the playoff picture is starting to take shape. Here’s a look at the top contenders in each conference, based on their current records, remaining schedules, and overall talent level.
AFC
1. Kansas City Chiefs (11-3)
The Chiefs remain the class of the AFC, despite a recent loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. Patrick Mahomes is still the league’s most dangerous quarterback, and the Chiefs have a plethora of offensive weapons, including Travis Kelce, Tyreek Hill, and Clyde Edwards-Helaire. Their defense has also been impressive, led by Chris Jones and Tyrann Mathieu.
2. Cincinnati Bengals (10-4)
The Bengals have emerged as a legitimate contender after starting the season 5-4. Joe Burrow has taken a significant step forward in his second year, and the Bengals have a strong receiving corps led by Ja’Marr Chase. Their defense has also been solid, allowing the fourth-fewest points per game in the league.
3. Tennessee Titans (9-4)
The Titans are a physical team that relies heavily on their running game. Derrick Henry is one of the league’s most dominant running backs, and the Titans have a solid offensive line. Their defense has been opportunistic, forcing 20 turnovers this season.
4. New England Patriots (9-4)
The Patriots have quietly put together another strong season under Bill Belichick. Mac Jones has played well in his rookie year, and the Patriots have a balanced offense that can move the ball through the air and on the ground. Their defense is also solid, led by Matthew Judon and J.C. Jackson.
5. Buffalo Bills (8-6)
The Bills have been up and down this season, but they still have the talent to be a contender. Josh Allen is one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league, and the Bills have a strong defense led by Tre’Davious White and Micah Hyde.
NFC
1. Green Bay Packers (12-3)
The Packers are the top team in the NFC, and they’re showing no signs of slowing down. Aaron Rodgers is still playing at an MVP level, and the Packers have a strong running game led by Aaron Jones. Their defense has also been impressive, allowing the fewest points per game in the league.
2. Arizona Cardinals (10-4)
The Cardinals are a surprise team this season, and they’re led by one of the most exciting quarterbacks in the league, Kyler Murray. Murray has a dynamic skill set that makes him a threat both as a passer and a runner. The Cardinals also have a solid defense led by Chandler Jones and Budda Baker.
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-5)
The Buccaneers are always a contender with Tom Brady at quarterback. Brady is still one of the best in the league, and the Buccaneers have a strong defense led by Vita Vea and Shaquil Barrett.
4. Los Angeles Rams (9-5)
The Rams have struggled with injuries this season, but they’re still a dangerous team. Matthew Stafford is a top-notch quarterback, and the Rams have a talented receiving corps led by Cooper Kupp. Their defense is also solid, led by Aaron Donald and Jalen Ramsey.
5. Dallas Cowboys (9-5)
The Cowboys have been a bit inconsistent this season, but they have the talent to be a contender. Dak Prescott is a solid quarterback, and the Cowboys have a strong running game led by Ezekiel Elliott. Their defense has also been opportunistic, forcing 19 turnovers this season.