Which Fringe NFL Teams Will Make The 2023 Playoffs? A Realistic Assessment

David

3 min read

Post on Jul 19, 2025

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Which Fringe NFL Teams Will Make the 2023 Playoffs? A Realistic Assessment

The NFL season is a rollercoaster. One week, a team's soaring high; the next, they're crashing down. Predicting the playoffs is notoriously difficult, but as we approach the halfway point of the 2023 season, some "fringe" teams are starting to show real playoff potential. This analysis dives into the contenders, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and the realistic path to a postseason berth.

Defining "Fringe" in the NFL Playoff Race

Before we dive in, let's clarify what we mean by "fringe" teams. We're talking about squads currently hovering around the playoff bubble – those with winning records or close to .500, possessing the talent but facing tough competition in their respective divisions. These aren't necessarily underdogs, but they face an uphill battle to secure a wild card spot or potentially even win their division.

The Contenders: A Deep Dive

Several teams fit this description. Let's examine some of the most prominent candidates:

1. The New York Jets: Aaron Rodgers' arrival injected immediate excitement into the Jets' fanbase. While their early season performance has been inconsistent, their potent defense and a potentially improved running game give them a fighting chance. Key to their playoff hopes: Consistency from Rodgers, continued defensive dominance, and minimizing turnovers. Their schedule down the stretch will be crucial. A strong finish against divisional rivals could solidify their place in the hunt.

2. The Washington Commanders: After a slow start, the Commanders have shown flashes of brilliance, particularly on offense. Their defense, while inconsistent, has the potential to elevate their game. Key to their playoff hopes: Maintaining consistency on both sides of the ball. Their quarterback situation remains a talking point, and improved offensive line play is essential to their success. A strong finish in the NFC East is unlikely, but a wild card spot remains a possibility.

3. The Green Bay Packers: Despite the departure of Aaron Rodgers, the Packers have shown resilience under Jordan Love. Their running game has been effective, and their defense, while not elite, is solid. Key to their playoff hopes: Continued growth from Jordan Love, a consistent running game, and improved pass defense. The NFC North is surprisingly competitive, making a division title unlikely, but a wild card berth remains possible with a strong second-half push.

4. The Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons are a surprise contender. Their running game is prolific, and their defense has shown improvement. Key to their playoff hopes: Maintaining their strong ground game, improving their pass defense, and consistent quarterback play from Desmond Ridder. The NFC South is weak, offering a real chance at winning the division, making their playoff odds surprisingly high.

Long Shots and Potential Spoilers

Teams like the Carolina Panthers and the New Orleans Saints also have slim playoff hopes, but their paths are significantly more challenging. Their odds depend heavily on other teams faltering and them stringing together several consecutive wins.

Conclusion: The Road to the Playoffs is Narrow

The race for the NFL playoffs is always intense. While these "fringe" teams possess the talent and potential to make a run, consistency and avoiding crucial injuries are critical. Their playoff hopes depend not only on their own performances but also on the outcomes of other teams. The final weeks of the season will be decisive, promising a thrilling finish to the 2023 NFL regular season. Keep your eyes peeled – the unexpected is always possible in the NFL.

Call to Action: Who do you think will make the playoffs? Share your predictions in the comments below!