Every NFL season brings surprises. From last-place finishers bouncing back to unexpected teams crashing the playoffs, football fans know the league rarely stays the same. As we head into the 2025 NFL season, 18 teams are looking to flip the script after missing the playoffs last year. Some are rebuilding, while others are reloaded and ready to compete.
We ranked all 18 non-playoff teams based on their potential to join the postseason party in 2025. Rankings consider coaching changes, offseason signings, quarterback situations, draft success, and schedule strength. Here’s how each team stacks up.
Why they could make it:
With Joe Burrow healthy and back under center, the Bengals are a strong bounce-back candidate. Despite a disappointing 2024, they still have elite weapons like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Their defense improved via the draft, and the offensive line looks better on paper.
Playoff odds: Very High
Why they could make it:
Aaron Rodgers returns from injury with a chip on his shoulder. The Jets boast one of the NFL’s best defenses and added weapons for Rodgers. If the offensive line holds up, this team is playoff-ready.
Playoff odds: Very High
Why they could make it:
New QB Kirk Cousins brings stability to a team full of talent on offense. With Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts, the Falcons have serious firepower. Their division is weak, giving them a clear path.
Playoff odds: High
Why they could make it:
Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams enters with sky-high expectations. He’ll throw to DJ Moore, Keenan Allen, and top draft pick Rome Odunze. The defense is young but rising. If Williams adapts quickly, the Bears could leap forward.
Playoff odds: High
Why they could make it:
Jim Harbaugh’s arrival brings discipline and toughness. Justin Herbert remains a top-tier quarterback, and the team’s core is still talented. If the defense stays healthy, they’ll be in the mix.
Playoff odds: High
Why they could make it:
Rookie J.J. McCarthy may not start right away, but the team around him is strong. Jordan Addison and Justin Jefferson make for a dynamic receiving duo. The NFC playoff race could be wide open.
Playoff odds: Moderate to High
Why they could make it:
New coach Brian Callahan is committed to developing Will Levis. With DeAndre Hopkins, Calvin Ridley, and Tony Pollard added, the offense could take off. Their defense will need to rebound for a real shot.
Playoff odds: Moderate
Why they could make it:
Kyler Murray is back and finally healthy. Rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. adds a game-changing element to the offense. The team is still rebuilding, but the NFC’s weaker depth gives them hope.
Playoff odds: Moderate
Why they could make it:
The Raiders upgraded their defense and found a potential quarterback answer in Aidan O’Connell or Gardner Minshew. Maxx Crosby leads an aggressive defense. They’re a wildcard in the tough AFC West.
Playoff odds: Moderate
Why they could make it:
Derek Carr returns with a healthier offensive line and better chemistry with his wideouts. The Saints are in one of the NFL’s least competitive divisions, giving them a window to sneak in.
Playoff odds: Moderate
Why they could make it:
New coach Dan Quinn and rookie QB Jayden Daniels give the Commanders fresh energy. The team has upgraded both sides of the ball, but success depends heavily on Daniels’ development.
Playoff odds: Moderate to Low
Why they could make it:
With Geno Smith and a strong receiver core, the Seahawks are competitive. However, questions remain on defense, and they’re in a challenging NFC West. Their playoff shot is slim but not impossible.
Playoff odds: Low
Why they could make it:
Sean Payton is starting over with rookie QB Bo Nix. The roster is average overall, and a brutal division makes the climb harder. Their playoff hopes rely on Nix having a breakout year.
Playoff odds: Low
Why they could make it:
Bryce Young enters year two with new weapons and protection. The Panthers had a rough 2024 but made significant coaching and roster changes. A big leap is required, but not impossible.
Playoff odds: Low
Why they could make it:
Jerod Mayo takes over as head coach, and rookie QB Drake Maye could spark improvement. Still, the Patriots are rebuilding and stuck in a strong AFC East. 2025 may be a learning year.
Playoff odds: Very Low
Why they could make it:
Daniel Jones needs to stay healthy, but offensive talent is limited. The Giants lost key pieces in the offseason and have an uphill battle ahead. Playoff dreams are faint.
Playoff odds: Very Low
Why they could make it:
The Colts have a rising young QB in Anthony Richardson and Jonathan Taylor returning. But injuries and defensive inconsistency make their path unclear. A lot must go right.
Playoff odds: Very Low
Why they could make it:
Baker Mayfield brought the Bucs to the playoffs in 2023, but regression followed. They lost key defenders, and the NFC South is slightly more competitive this time. A return seems unlikely.
Playoff odds: Very Low
Each new NFL season brings fresh hope. For these 18 non-playoff teams, 2025 is a chance to turn the page and fight for postseason glory. While some are better positioned than others, the league’s parity makes surprises possible.
Teams like the Bengals, Jets, and Falcons look ready to take the next step. Meanwhile, rebuilding franchises such as the Panthers and Patriots may be laying groundwork for future success. One thing is certain someone unexpected will crash the NFL’s postseason party. The only question is who.
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