NFL Playoff Power Rankings: Which Teams Have the Best Shot at Super Bowl 59?

The quest for the Lombardi Trophy is an arduous journey, one that tests the mettle of every NFL team. As we look ahead to Super Bowl 59, the landscape is already taking shape, with several teams emerging as strong contenders. After an exciting Super Bowl 59 that saw the Philadelphia Eagles defeat the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22, the race for Super Bowl 59 is wide open. Let’s dive into the NFL playoff power rankings and analyze which teams have the best shot at hoisting the trophy in New Orleans on February 9, 2025.

The AFC Frontrunners

Kansas City Chiefs: Despite losing Super Bowl 59 to the Eagles, it would be foolish to count out Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid. The Chiefs are still the team to beat in the AFC, and their experience in big games is unmatched. With Mahomes at the helm, the Chiefs’ offense remains explosive, and their defense has proven capable of making crucial stops. The Chiefs are looking to complete their historic three-peat, and a Super Bowl 59 appearance would be a rematch of their first one in that run. This would be the ninth repeat Super Bowl matchup.

Buffalo Bills: The Bills have been knocking on the door for years, and 2025 could finally be their year. Led by the dynamic Josh Allen, the Bills possess a potent offense and a stout defense. Their ability to beat the Chiefs in the regular season proves they have what it takes to compete with the best. The Bills have famously never won a Super Bowl after losing all four of their big game appearances in a row from the 1990 to 1993 seasons.

Baltimore Ravens: With Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry leading the charge, the Ravens boast a formidable offense. Their defense is consistently among the league’s best, making them a threat to any opponent. The Ravens have reached the postseason six of the last seven years.

Houston Texans: The Texans are a team on the rise, led by the impressive C.J. Stroud. Their defense has improved significantly, and their offense has added playmakers. If their offensive line can protect Stroud, the Texans could make a deep playoff run. Houston allowed wideout Stefon Diggs to depart as a free agent after just one season during which he appeared in only eight games due to a torn ACL and replaced him with Christian Kirk, whose 2024 campaign with the Jaguars also was limited to eight contests because of a broken collarbone. But the model still sees the Texans approaching 10 wins again in 2025, projecting them to record 9.2.

NFC Powerhouses

Philadelphia Eagles: Fresh off their Super Bowl 59 victory, the Eagles are the team to beat in the NFC. With Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, and a dominant defense, the Eagles have all the ingredients for sustained success. The Eagles made the biggest line move over the course of the season, going from an opening price of +2200 to +110.

Detroit Lions: The Lions are no longer the lovable losers of the NFL. With a strong offense led by Jared Goff and a tough defense, the Lions are legitimate Super Bowl contenders. Their passionate fanbase and home-field advantage make them a dangerous team in the playoffs. The Lions are the No. 1 team in PFF’s Power Rankings and the highest-graded team in football, which is reflected in their 15-2 record.

Minnesota Vikings: Despite a stellar regular season, the Vikings face a tough road in the playoffs. However, their offense is explosive, and their defense is capable of making stops. If they can put it all together, the Vikings could surprise some people. The Vikings are once again in a tough situation despite a stellar regular season. Instead of jumping up to the prime No. 1 spot ahead of the Lions, they are stuck playing at the Rams, where they were rocked 30-20 on a Thursday night in Week 8.

Los Angeles Rams: Few teams enter the playoffs as hot as the Rams, who were 9-2 in their last 11 games with starters playing. Their offense is clicking, and their defense has found its stride. Don’t be surprised if the Rams make a deep playoff run.

Dark Horses and Potential Upsets

Denver Broncos: With Bo Nix under center, the Broncos have a talented quarterback with a bright future. Their defense is solid, and their coaching staff is experienced. If Nix can elevate his game, the Broncos could be a dark horse in the AFC.

Los Angeles Chargers: Jim Harbaugh’s arrival has injected new life into the Chargers. With Justin Herbert at quarterback, the Chargers have the potential to beat anyone. If their defense can improve, the Chargers could be a surprise team in the playoffs. The Chargers responded to Harbaugh, posting an 11-6 record to finish second in the AFC West and return to the playoffs.

Washington Commanders: The Commanders have a talented roster and a coach who knows how to win. Their odds of reaching New Orleans aren’t very high — just 5%, per PFF ELO rankings.

Green Bay Packers: The Packers are a young team on the rise, led by Jordan Love. Their offense is improving, and their defense has playmakers. If Love can continue his development, the Packers could be a dangerous team in the NFC.

Key Factors for Super Bowl 59 Contenders

Quarterback Play: Elite quarterback play is essential for any Super Bowl contender. Teams with top-tier quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Jalen Hurts, and Lamar Jackson have a significant advantage.
Defense: A strong defense is crucial for stopping opposing offenses and making key stops in critical moments. Teams with dominant defensive lines and playmaking secondaries are well-positioned for playoff success.
Coaching: Experienced and innovative coaching staffs can make a significant difference in game planning, play calling, and player development. Teams with proven coaches like Andy Reid, Sean McVay, and Jim Harbaugh have a leg up on the competition.
Health: Staying healthy throughout the season is paramount for any Super Bowl contender. Injuries to key players can derail a team’s chances, so depth and injury management are essential.

Final Thoughts

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, several teams have emerged as legitimate Super Bowl 59 contenders. The Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, Philadelphia Eagles, and Detroit Lions are among the favorites, but dark horses like the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers could surprise. Ultimately, the team that combines elite quarterback play, a strong defense, experienced coaching, and good health will have the best shot at hoisting the Lombardi Trophy in New Orleans.