Fringe NFL Teams: A Realistic Look At Who's Most Likely To Secure A Playoff Spot In 2023

David

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Post on May 17, 2025

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Fringe NFL Teams: A Realistic Look at Who's Most Likely to Secure a Playoff Spot in 2023

The NFL season is upon us, and while some teams are clear contenders, others sit on the fringe, battling for a coveted playoff spot. This year's race promises to be fiercely competitive, with several teams possessing the potential to surprise and make a deep postseason run. But which "fringe" teams have the best realistic shot at securing a playoff berth in 2023? Let's dive into the contenders and analyze their chances.

The Contenders: A Tiered Approach

To accurately assess the chances of these fringe teams, we'll break them down into tiers based on their current roster strength, coaching staff, and projected divisional competitiveness.

Tier 1: Strong Contenders (High Probability)

• New York Jets: The Jets' offseason additions, particularly quarterback Aaron Rodgers, significantly boosted their playoff aspirations. Their success hinges on Rodgers' performance and the team's ability to stay healthy. A strong running game and a solid defense provide a solid foundation. Their division, however, is tough, with the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins expected to be strong competitors. Nevertheless, a wildcard spot is very much within reach.

• Detroit Lions: The Lions showed significant improvement last season, showcasing an exciting offense and a developing defense. Their high-octane attack, led by Jared Goff and a talented receiving corps, is capable of putting up points against any team. If their defense takes another step forward, they are a serious threat to win the NFC North or at least secure a wildcard spot.

Tier 2: Realistic Hopefuls (Moderate Probability)

• Washington Commanders: The Commanders' playoff chances depend heavily on the performance of their quarterback, Sam Howell. A strong running game and a solid defense offer a foundation for success, but consistency is key. Their division is competitive, making a wildcard berth their most likely path to the postseason.

• Jacksonville Jaguars: Despite their impressive playoff run last year, the Jaguars face a tougher path in 2023. Their division, the AFC South, remains relatively open, but consistency and avoiding crucial injuries will be paramount for another postseason appearance.

Tier 3: Long Shots (Low Probability)

Several other teams could technically sneak into the playoffs, but their chances are significantly lower due to various factors like roster weaknesses or incredibly tough divisions. These include teams like the Green Bay Packers, who face an uphill battle after Aaron Rodgers' departure, and the New Orleans Saints, whose success hinges heavily on their quarterback situation.

Factors Influencing Playoff Chances

Beyond team talent, several crucial factors will determine which fringe teams make the playoffs:

• Injury Reports: The NFL is a game of attrition. Key injuries at critical positions can derail even the most promising seasons.
• Coaching: Effective coaching can make all the difference in close games and throughout a long season.
• Divisional Strength: A team's success is often dictated by the strength of its division.
• Intangibles: Luck, momentum, and team chemistry can play a significant role in determining playoff success.

Conclusion: A Tight Race

The race for the NFL playoffs in 2023 promises to be thrilling. While the Jets and Lions appear to have the best shot from this fringe group, the Commanders and Jaguars remain in the mix. Ultimately, consistency, health, and a bit of luck will be the deciding factors in who emerges victorious and secures a coveted playoff berth. Stay tuned for an exciting season!

Call to Action: What team do you think has the best chance of making the playoffs? Let us know in the comments below!