Fringe NFL Contenders: Who's Most Likely To Secure A 2023 Postseason Berth?

David

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Post on May 28, 2025

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Fringe NFL Contenders: Who's Most Likely to Secure a 2023 Postseason Berth?

The NFL season is heating up, and while some teams have cemented their playoff positions, a fierce battle rages for the remaining spots. Several "fringe contenders" – teams with a realistic but not guaranteed shot at the postseason – are vying for a coveted playoff berth in 2023. But which squads have the best chance of making a late-season surge and securing a place in the January action? Let's dive into the analysis.

The Top Tier of Fringe Contenders:

Several teams stand out as having a legitimate shot at a playoff berth. Their success hinges on a combination of factors including remaining schedule strength, key player health, and consistent performance.

• The New York Jets: Aaron Rodgers' arrival injected immediate excitement into the Jets' season, but inconsistencies have plagued their campaign. Their remaining schedule presents both challenges and opportunities. Success depends heavily on Rodgers' performance and the continued development of their young receiving corps. A strong finish, however, could easily see them snatch a wild card spot.

• The Detroit Lions: The Lions have captivated fans with their high-octane offense and exciting style of play. Their young roster is brimming with talent, and their offensive firepower is undeniable. However, their defensive inconsistencies need improvement to ensure playoff contention. A late season run could depend on strengthening their defensive performance and winning key divisional matchups.

• The Green Bay Packers: While not playing at the same level as previous seasons, the Packers have shown flashes of brilliance under Jordan Love. Their success will depend heavily on the consistency of their young quarterback and the ability of their defense to consistently shut down opposing offenses. A late-season surge is possible, but overcoming a tough schedule will be crucial.

The Long Shots with a Chance:

While less likely, these teams still have a mathematical possibility of making the playoffs. Their paths are steeper and require near-perfect performances down the stretch.

• The Washington Commanders: A team riddled with inconsistency, the Commanders need a significant turnaround to make the postseason. Their path requires winning most, if not all, of their remaining games and hoping other teams stumble. This is a tough ask, but not entirely impossible.

• The Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons showed early promise, but consistency has eluded them. A strong finish is possible but would require a near-flawless run and some unexpected help from other teams. They’re a team fighting for their playoff lives and their chances hinge on a string of unexpected victories.

Factors Influencing the Race:

Several factors beyond team performance will heavily influence the playoff race:

• Divisional matchups: Head-to-head results within divisions often determine playoff seeding. Winning these crucial games is paramount for fringe contenders.
• Injury reports: The NFL is a physical game, and injuries can significantly impact team performance. Maintaining key players healthy is crucial for a successful playoff push.
• Remaining schedule strength: Teams facing easier schedules have a higher probability of winning more games and improving their playoff chances.

Conclusion:

The race for the NFL Playoffs is far from over. While some teams are clear favorites, the fringe contenders have a legitimate chance to upset the odds and secure a postseason berth. The final weeks will be filled with nail-biting finishes and dramatic shifts in the standings. Keep your eyes glued to the gridiron! Which team do you think will make the most surprising playoff run in 2023? Let us know in the comments below!