With the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles set to battle in Super Bowl LIX, 30 other NFL teams are already looking ahead to next season. Here’s a ranking of the top 10 teams most likely to make Super Bowl LX, excluding the Chiefs and Eagles.
Returning Playoff Teams
10. Green Bay Packers
The Packers are a team with great potential, but questions remain, particularly on defense. If Jordan Love continues to progress and Green Bay shores up its defense in free agency and the draft, they could be a serious threat in the NFC.
9. Minnesota Vikings
Kevin O’Connell’s Vikings have consistently won close games, but playoff success has eluded them. Whether they stick with Sam Darnold or transition to rookie J.J. McCarthy, their quarterback play will determine how far they can go.
8. Houston Texans
C.J. Stroud has already proven he’s a franchise quarterback, but the Texans need to improve their offensive line and receiving corps. With a strong defense and a healthy Tank Dell, Houston remains a contender in the AFC.
7. Los Angeles Chargers
Jim Harbaugh’s impact in Year 1 was clear, and with Justin Herbert entering his prime, the Chargers are a team on the rise. Questions at edge rusher and offensive consistency keep them from ranking higher.
6. Washington Commanders
Jayden Daniels won Offensive Rookie of the Year and led Washington to the NFC title game. With cap space to spend, the Commanders could take the next step—if they can maintain their strong play in close games.
4. Baltimore Ravens
Lamar Jackson had a career year, and the Ravens led the league in offensive efficiency. However, concerns about their aging pass rush and Derrick Henry’s workload keep them from being ranked higher.
2. Detroit Lions
The Lions battled through injuries in 2024 but still made a deep playoff run. Despite losing both coordinators, they retain an elite offensive line and one of the best skill-position groups in football.
1. Buffalo Bills
Buffalo has come close to dethroning the Chiefs multiple times and will return key offensive pieces. If their defense improves, they have the best chance outside of Kansas City to make Super Bowl LX.
New Playoff Teams
5. San Francisco 49ers
Despite a history of deep playoff runs, the 49ers missed the postseason in 2024. With Brock Purdy still on a cheap contract and a healthy roster, they could easily return to Super Bowl contention.
3. Cincinnati Bengals
Joe Burrow played at an elite level, but the Bengals fell short due to defensive struggles. If they can retain Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, they will be a dangerous AFC contender.
Final Thoughts
The Bills, Lions, and Bengals stand out as the most likely teams to reach Super Bowl LX, while the 49ers and Commanders represent potential surprise contenders. Who will make the leap? We’ll find out next season.