Ranking The Most Likely Fringe NFL Teams To Make The 2023 Playoffs

3 min read Post on Jun 01, 2025

Ranking the Most Likely Fringe NFL Teams to Make the 2023 Playoffs

The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint, but as we approach the halfway point, some teams are emerging as surprise contenders while others fight to stay relevant in a fiercely competitive league. This year, several "fringe" teams – those not initially predicted as playoff contenders – possess the potential to snag a postseason berth. But which are the most likely to make a playoff push in 2023? Let's rank them based on current performance, remaining schedule, and overall team strength.

5. Atlanta Falcons (Current Record: [Insert Current Falcons Record])

The Falcons surprised many with their early-season performance. Their potent rushing attack, led by [Insert key player name], keeps them in games, and their defense, while not elite, shows flashes of brilliance. However, their path to the playoffs is steep. They face tough divisional matchups against the [mention key division rivals] and will need significant improvements in their pass defense to consistently compete. Their playoff chances hinge on winning the majority of their remaining games against weaker opponents.

4. New Orleans Saints (Current Record: [Insert Current Saints Record])

The Saints’ success rests heavily on the shoulders of [Insert key player name]. Their defense is consistently strong, but inconsistency on offense, particularly in the passing game, has been a concern. A favorable remaining schedule offers a glimmer of hope, but they need to find more offensive consistency to truly contend. Their chances depend heavily on [mention specific factors, e.g., improved offensive line play, consistent quarterback performance].

3. Green Bay Packers (Current Record: [Insert Current Packers Record])

The Packers, despite a slow start, are a perennial playoff contender. [Insert key player name]'s performance will be crucial, and the team's improved running game offers a more balanced attack. While their division is strong, their remaining schedule presents some winnable games. The Packers' playoff hopes are realistic, but rely heavily on consistent quarterback play and minimizing turnovers.

2. Cleveland Browns (Current Record: [Insert Current Browns Record])

The Browns possess a potent offense led by [Insert key player name], but their defense needs to step up consistently. Their success hinges on winning the AFC North, a challenging task given the competitiveness of the division. However, their potent running game and improved offensive line offer a promising foundation for a playoff push. Consistency from the defense is the key ingredient missing from their recipe for success.

1. New York Jets (Current Record: [Insert Current Jets Record])

The Jets' surprising start has put them in a strong position. The addition of [Insert key player name] has significantly bolstered their offense, and their defense is consistently tough. While facing a few tough games, their remaining schedule offers enough winnable games to secure a Wild Card spot. Their young roster’s growth and overall team chemistry give them the edge in this ranking.

Factors influencing playoff chances:

Divisional Games: Winning divisional games is crucial for playoff seeding.
Injury Reports: Injuries to key players can significantly impact a team's performance.
Offensive and Defensive Consistency: Teams need consistent performance on both sides of the ball to make a deep playoff run.

Conclusion:

While predicting the NFL playoffs is always a challenging task, these five teams appear to have the best shot at securing a surprise postseason berth in 2023. Their success will depend on navigating their remaining schedules, avoiding crucial injuries, and consistently delivering strong performances. Keep an eye on these teams as the season unfolds! What do you think? Which fringe team has the best chance of making the playoffs? Let us know in the comments below!