Fringe NFL Teams: Realistically Assessing Their 2023 Playoff Chances

David

3 min read

Post on Jun 21, 2025

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Fringe NFL Teams: Realistically Assessing Their 2023 Playoff Chances

The NFL season is upon us, and while some teams are clear Super Bowl contenders, others find themselves teetering on the edge of the playoff picture. This year's "fringe" teams – those with a realistic, albeit challenging, path to the postseason – present a fascinating study in potential and peril. Let's dive into a realistic assessment of their 2023 playoff chances.

Defining the "Fringe"

Before we begin, let's clarify what constitutes a "fringe" team in this context. We're talking about squads projected to compete for a wild-card spot, facing significant hurdles but possessing enough talent and favorable schedules to make a legitimate run. These aren't teams expected to win their division outright, but they possess the potential to sneak into the playoffs with a strong performance.

The Contenders and Their Challenges:

Several teams immediately spring to mind when discussing NFL playoff fringe contenders in 2023. Let's break down a few key teams and their paths to the postseason:

1. The Green Bay Packers: After a surprising 8-9 season in 2022, the Packers enter 2023 with Jordan Love taking the reins at quarterback. Their playoff hopes hinge heavily on Love's development and the continued strong performance of their defense. A favorable schedule could be their saving grace, but inconsistency could easily derail their season. Key to success: Staying healthy and avoiding a slow start.

2. The New Orleans Saints: The Saints boast a strong defense and a talented running game, but questions remain about their passing attack. Their playoff chances depend on the consistency of their quarterback and the ability of their defense to carry the team through tough matchups. Key to success: Developing a reliable passing game and maintaining defensive dominance.

3. The Atlanta Falcons: After an unexpectedly successful 2022 season, the Falcons face a tougher road in 2023. Their playoff chances depend on the continued growth of their young quarterback and the ability of their defense to improve significantly. Key to success: Staying healthy at the quarterback position and improving pass rush.

4. The Cleveland Browns: With a talented roster led by Deshaun Watson, the Browns face high expectations. However, their playoff chances rest heavily on Watson's performance and the team's ability to stay healthy. Their division is also exceptionally competitive. Key to success: Watson's consistency, a strong running game, and a healthy offensive line.

5. The Pittsburgh Steelers: A team known for its strong defense and a gritty running game, the Steelers face a tough path to the playoffs. Their success hinges on the performance of their young quarterback and the ability of their defense to consistently pressure opposing offenses. Key to success: Developing consistent quarterback play and maintaining their defensive intensity.

Factors Influencing Playoff Hopes:

Beyond individual team performance, several external factors will influence the playoff race:

• Divisional Strength: A strong division means a tougher road to a winning record and a potential wild-card berth.
• Injury Reports: NFL teams are vulnerable to injuries, and a key injury at quarterback or in the defensive line can significantly impact a team's season.
• Unexpected Breakouts: A previously unheralded player could emerge as a star, significantly altering a team's fortunes.

Conclusion:

The race for the NFL playoffs is always unpredictable. While these fringe teams face significant challenges, each possesses the potential to make a surprise run. Their playoff hopes will depend on a multitude of factors – from quarterback performance to injury luck to simply catching a few breaks. Stay tuned as the season unfolds and the playoff picture starts to crystallize! What are your predictions for these fringe teams? Share your thoughts in the comments below!