Ranking The Odds: NFL's Most Likely Fringe Playoff Contenders In 2023

David

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Post on May 24, 2025

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Ranking the Odds: NFL's Most Likely Fringe Playoff Contenders in 2023

The NFL regular season is a grueling marathon, and while some teams are perennial powerhouses, others fight tooth and nail for a coveted playoff spot. This year, several teams find themselves on the fringe, poised to either break through or fall short. Let's dive into the contenders most likely to make a surprise postseason run in 2023. We'll rank them based on a combination of roster strength, coaching acumen, schedule difficulty, and overall potential for improvement.

Methodology: Our rankings consider a variety of factors beyond simple win projections. We've weighed offseason moves, key player health, divisional strength, and even coaching changes to create a nuanced assessment.

Tier 1: Strong Contenders

1. New York Jets: The Jets made a significant splash in the offseason, acquiring future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers. With Rodgers at the helm, a potent running game featuring Breece Hall, and a solid defense, the Jets are primed for a playoff push. Their success hinges on Rodgers's ability to adapt to the new system and the offensive line's performance. Key factor: Maintaining Rodgers' health throughout the season will be crucial.

2. Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jaguars surprised many last season by reaching the Divisional Round. With Trevor Lawrence entering his third year and a strong supporting cast, they remain a serious threat in the AFC South. Their improved offensive line and a proven coaching staff give them a significant edge. Key factor: Consistency in all phases of the game will be key to avoiding early-season pitfalls.

Tier 2: Realistic Hopefuls

3. Detroit Lions: The Lions were one of the league's most exciting teams in 2022, boasting a high-powered offense and a rapidly improving defense. If their defense takes another step forward, the Lions could easily contend for a wild-card spot in the highly competitive NFC North. Key factor: Maintaining offensive consistency while improving defensive efficiency against the run.

4. Green Bay Packers: The Packers enter a new era post-Aaron Rodgers. Jordan Love's performance will be paramount. While their offense might face some growing pains, their strong defense remains a stabilizing force. Key factor: Love's ability to quickly develop and lead the team will determine their playoff fate.

5. Washington Commanders: The Commanders showed flashes of brilliance last season. With an improved roster and a new offensive coordinator, they could surprise some teams. Their success will depend on the effectiveness of their revamped offensive line and quarterback Sam Howell's development. Key factor: Howell's performance and the overall consistency of their offensive line will be crucial.

Tier 3: Long Shots (But Not Impossible!)

6. Dallas Cowboys: While many consider the Cowboys a playoff lock, their inconsistent performance and injury history make them a bit more volatile. A strong start is essential for them to avoid falling behind in the tough NFC East. Key factor: Staying healthy and avoiding early-season stumbles.

7. Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons made significant improvements to their offense in the offseason. Their playoff chances hinge on whether their defense can keep pace with their high-scoring offense. Key factor: Their defensive performance will dictate their chances of making the playoffs.

Conclusion: The NFL is full of surprises, and these fringe contenders have the potential to make a significant impact on the 2023 season. Their success will largely depend on overcoming key challenges and maximizing their potential. Keep an eye on these teams as the season unfolds; they could be the story of the year.

Call to Action: Which team do you think has the best chance of making a surprise playoff run? Share your predictions in the comments below!