Playoff Bound? Analyzing Which NFL Teams Are Most Likely to Return to the Postseason in 2025
The NFL is a league of constant change. What was true last season might be completely irrelevant heading into the next. As the dust settles on free agency and the draft approaches, fans and analysts alike are turning their attention to 2025, wondering which teams are best positioned to make a playoff run. After an eventful free agency period, here is a prediction for the NFL playoffs next season with all division winners and wild card teams in the AFC and NFC. Which teams that missed the playoffs in 2024 have the best shot to be Playoff Bound in 2025?
The AFC Contenders
The AFC is loaded with talent, and several teams are poised to make a leap into the playoff picture.
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Cincinnati Bengals: A healthy Joe Burrow changes everything. With Burrow back in the fold, and Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins locked in with massive extensions, the Bengals are immediately back in the contender conversation. The Bengals are the pick to replace the Steelers. They struggled to stay healthy last year and had some unlucky losses.
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New York Jets: The Jets’ fortunes hinge on the health of Aaron Rodgers. If he can return to form after his injury, the Jets’ talented roster could finally live up to its potential.
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Denver Broncos: The Broncos are the favorites to take the final playoff spot in the AFC. Denver made two big swings on defense with Dre Greenlaw and Talanoa Hufanga, moves that could pay dividends.
NFC Teams on the Rise
The NFC boasts its own set of intriguing teams looking to break into the playoffs.
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Washington Commanders: The Commanders had a very good free agency. The Commanders acquired Laremy Tunsil in a trade with the Texans and Deebo Samuel from the 49ers, moves that signal their intent to compete now.
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Chicago Bears: With Ben Johnson now the head coach, the Bears are hoping for a complete offensive transformation. Johnson created the most creative and prolific offense in the league during his time as the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator. His job now is to produce similar results with a team that watched quarterback Caleb Williams, the top pick in the 2024 draft, underwhelm in his first season. The Bears also rebuilt their offensive line, a move that should provide a boost for Caleb Williams.
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Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons are a trendy pick to win the NFC South. The Bucks are getting old they’re bringing back the entire offense. sometimes that’s good sometimes it’s not i like the trajectory of Atlanta. and I’m a big Michael Penn fan carolina will be better but an average roster saints up against the Cap kind of rigid. there i just don’t like their. direction
Key Factors for Playoff Success
Several factors will determine which of these teams ultimately reach the postseason.
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Quarterback Play: Consistent, high-level quarterback play is essential. The Bengals with Joe Burrow, and the Jets with Aaron Rodgers, will only go as far as their quarterbacks take them.
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Coaching: New coaching hires can provide a spark and implement crucial changes. Ben Johnson’s arrival in Chicago is a prime example.
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Offseason Acquisitions: Smart free agency moves and impactful draft picks can fill holes and elevate a team’s overall talent level. The Commanders’ moves to acquire Laremy Tunsil and Deebo Samuel are examples of this.
Power Rankings and Expert Opinions
According to recent power rankings, teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, Kansas City Chiefs, and Buffalo Bills remain at the top. However, the middle tier has seen significant shakeups, with teams like the Bears and 49ers rising after early offseason moves.
Colin Cowherd predicts the following NFC Playoff picture: Eagles, Lions, Falcons, Rams, Commanders, Bears, and Seahawks.
The Ever-Changing Landscape
The NFL is unpredictable, and injuries, unexpected performances, and unforeseen trades can all alter a team’s trajectory. As the 2025 season approaches, these teams are among the most likely to make a return to the playoffs, but only time will tell if they can live up to the expectations.