2023 NFL Postseason: Ranking The Most Likely Fringe Contenders

David

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Post on May 20, 2025

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2023 NFL Postseason: Ranking the Most Likely Fringe Contenders

The NFL regular season is a marathon, not a sprint. While some teams clearly staked their claim as Super Bowl contenders, a handful of others hover on the fringes, possessing the talent and potential to make a surprising postseason run. This year's NFL postseason picture is far from clear, making these "fringe contenders" all the more intriguing. Let's rank the teams most likely to snatch a playoff berth and make some noise.

Methodology: This ranking considers a team's current record, remaining schedule strength, key players' health, and overall team performance trends. We're not focusing on teams already firmly in the playoff hunt, but rather those with a realistic shot at sneaking in.

1. New York Jets: The Jets' season hinges on the health and performance of Aaron Rodgers. If Rodgers stays healthy and finds his rhythm, the Jets' potent running game and strong defense could propel them into the playoffs. Their remaining schedule presents a mix of challenges and opportunities, offering a realistic path to a winning record. However, inconsistent offensive performances remain a concern. The wildcard? Their improved offensive line. If that holds up, Rodgers could be unstoppable.

2. Los Angeles Chargers: Justin Herbert's arm talent is undeniable, but the Chargers have struggled with consistency. Their defense, while talented, has shown vulnerability at times. A strong finish to the season, particularly against divisional rivals, is crucial for their playoff hopes. Winning the AFC West seems unlikely, making a wildcard berth their most probable route to the postseason. Their success rests heavily on the offensive line's ability to protect Herbert.

3. Dallas Cowboys: The Cowboys possess a strong defense and a talented running game, but the quarterback position remains a question mark. Dak Prescott's performance will be paramount. Their schedule features some tough matchups, meaning they need to perform consistently down the stretch. Their ability to manage the clock and control the line of scrimmage will be key factors in determining their playoff fate.

4. Green Bay Packers: Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon lead a powerful running game, and the defense is showing improvements. The Packers' success depends heavily on Jordan Love's development. If Love can elevate his game and limit turnovers, Green Bay could surprise many. Their playoff chances are slim, but not impossible given the NFC's competitive landscape.

5. Seattle Seahawks: Geno Smith's performance exceeded expectations last year, but consistency has been an issue in 2023. The Seahawks’ defense needs to step up significantly to contend for a playoff spot. Their remaining games are crucial; winning against strong opponents will be essential for their playoff hopes.

Factors Affecting Fringe Contenders:

• Injury Reports: The NFL is a brutal game. A significant injury to a key player can derail even the most promising season. Monitoring injury reports is crucial for predicting these teams' chances.
• Divisional Matchups: Winning divisional games is paramount for securing a playoff berth. These games often carry extra weight and can significantly impact playoff seeding.
• Offensive Line Play: A strong offensive line protects the quarterback and opens up running lanes. The performance of the offensive line is often a critical indicator of a team's success.

Conclusion: The 2023 NFL postseason race is far from over. These fringe contenders have the potential to make a dramatic playoff push. Their success will hinge on consistent performances, crucial victories against strong opponents, and—most importantly—staying healthy. Keep an eye on these teams as the season reaches its climax! Who do you think will make the biggest surprise run? Let us know in the comments!