NFL Power Rankings: Which Remaining Team Has the Best Super Bowl Shot?

There’s been plenty of surprises and excitement in the 2023 NFL season, but the four teams still standing are undoubtedly the most compelling and deserving of the title. With the reigning champs, the reigning MVP, a team that has consistently chased greatness, and a team driven by generations of longing, the stage is set for an unforgettable finish. Here’s our power rankings for the remaining playoff contenders, along with news and updates from across the league:

1. Baltimore Ravens (14-4)

The Ravens kept their cool through a tense first half against Houston and dominated the second half. Now they face a daunting task in devising a game plan to stop Patrick Mahomes in the AFC Championship Game.

2. San Francisco 49ers (13-5)

The 49ers proved their resilience and talent after a slow start. They’ll hope for a more consistent performance from Brock Purdy, especially with better weather conditions. The matchup between Nick Bosa and the 49ers’ pass rush against Detroit’s offensive line is one to watch.

3. Kansas City Chiefs (13-6)

The Chiefs’ consistency is remarkable, as they’re in their sixth straight AFC Championship Game. Despite uncharacteristic mistakes, like a fumble in the opponent’s end zone, they remain a force, thanks to Patrick Mahomes and a tenacious defense led by Steve Spagnuolo.

4. Detroit Lions (14-5)

The Lions’ fourth-place ranking may seem harsh, but it reflects concerns about their offensive line injuries. Center Frank Ragnow’s determination to play through injuries is admirable, but left guard Jonah Jackson’s absence due to a meniscus injury will require a collective effort against Nick Bosa, Javon Hargrave, and Chase Young.

5. Buffalo Bills (12-7)

The Bills’ fate seems tied to Patrick Mahomes’ dominance. In a hypothetical world where Mahomes pursued baseball or played for an NFC team, Buffalo could have made multiple Super Bowl appearances. But the reality is that Kansas City’s reign over Buffalo continues, and the Bills face an uphill battle to change that.

6. Green Bay Packers (10-9)

Mixed emotions surround Green Bay fans as they see a young team and a promising franchise quarterback emerge. But the failed fourth down in the first half, the missed field goal in the fourth quarter, and Jordan Love’s final pass choice highlight a squandered opportunity. The Packers could have advanced to an indoor game against a division rival they defeated on Thanksgiving. Despite the excitement surrounding the young talent, these missed chances can’t be overlooked.

7. Houston Texans (11-8)

While a loss is never ideal, a young team like the Texans can find solace in knowing they were simply outmatched by a superior opponent. The experience of facing a formidable team in the fourth quarter may be painful but could serve as a valuable learning opportunity. The future remains bright for Houston, with key free agents like Jonathan Greenard, Sheldon Rankins, Dalton Schultz, and Devin Singletary to consider. But the presence of C.J. Stroud on a rookie contract provides immense potential.

8. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-9)

Despite exceeding expectations in Detroit, the Buccaneers’ future is uncertain. The team’s performance was encouraging, but questions linger about the status of Baker Mayfield, Mike Evans, Antoine Winfield Jr., Lavonte David, and Devin White. The offseason could bring significant changes to Tampa Bay.

9. Los Angeles Rams (10-8)

While much of the Rams’ success is attributed to Sean McVay, the potential departures of offensive coordinator Zac Robinson and defensive coordinator Raheem Morris to head-coaching positions are noteworthy. McVay’s influence on the offense is significant, but Morris’s contributions to the Rams’ young defense cannot be overlooked.

10. Miami Dolphins (11-7)

Tua Tagovailoa’s contract situation looms large for Miami. With his fifth-year option approaching, discussions about an extension and its terms are sure to generate offseason debates.

11. Cleveland Browns (11-7)

Amidst a season where the Browns featured five different quarterbacks, offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt’s reported departure is surprising. Additionally, former Notre Dame and Alabama offensive coordinator Tommy Rees may join the Browns as tight ends coach, indicating intriguing staff changes.

12. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-8)

Mike Tomlin’s return for 2024 is confirmed, with expectations of an extension beyond that. However, the attention now shifts to Kenny Pickett, who must earn the starting quarterback position through competition. The Steelers are urged to bring in genuine competition to push Pickett to excel.

13. Dallas Cowboys (12-6)

After a brief period of uncertainty, Mike McCarthy will return for the final year of his contract without a new deal. This decision will likely generate offseason discussions. The Cowboys’ primary focus should be addressing Dak Prescott’s massive contract. Will they extend him or let both the quarterback and head coach play out a “prove it” year?

14. Philadelphia Eagles (11-7)

Similar to Mike McCarthy, Nick Sirianni’s job security was briefly questioned, but he will return as head coach. However, he must make astute coordinator hires to ensure the team’s continued success.

15. Seattle Seahawks (9-8)

Pete Carroll’s departure from Seattle has been followed by offensive coordinator Shane Waldron’s move to the Chicago Bears. With no new head coach appointed yet, the Seahawks face an uncertain future.

16. Indianapolis Colts (9-8)

Shane Steichen’s impressive work with the Colts, guiding them close to the playoffs despite a largely unrecognized roster, deserves recognition. While missing the playoffs may sting, Anthony Richardson’s return in 2024 presents an opportunity to strengthen the team around him.

17. Las Vegas Raiders (8-9)

Antonio Pierce’s interim appointment as head coach has been met with enthusiasm, as players respond positively to his leadership and appreciation for the franchise’s history. After the failed experiment with Josh McDaniels, the Raiders are willing to give Pierce a chance as the full-time head coach.

18. Jacksonville Jaguars (9-8)

Defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell has been replaced by former Falcons DC Ryan Nielsen following the Jaguars’ defensive struggles. This move is considered a solid hire given Nielsen’s successful stint in Atlanta.

19. New Orleans Saints (9-8)

In contrast to Jacksonville, the Saints’ offensive underperformance has led to the departure of offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael, a longtime member of the Sean Payton era. The Saints are expected to explore diverse options for his replacement.

20. Chicago Bears (7-10)

The hiring of Shane Waldron as offensive coordinator has sparked speculation about the Bears’ quarterback situation. While it’s too early to draw conclusions, Waldron’s success in revitalizing Geno Smith’s career in 2022 suggests his ability to optimize the performance of either Justin Fields or Caleb Williams.

21. Cincinnati Bengals (9-8)

The Bengals have lost Brian Callahan, a key figure in Joe Burrow’s development, to the Tennessee Titans. Callahan’s departure as offensive coordinator and gameplan designer is a notable loss for a successful team.

22. Denver Broncos (8-9)

In Sean Payton’s first year, the Broncos discovered that even he could not salvage the Russell Wilson situation. The team now faces the challenge of paying Wilson a significant sum while attempting to remain competitive without him. Payton’s ability to navigate this juggling act will be closely observed.

23. Arizona Cardinals (4-13)

The Cardinals have undergone a remarkable transformation from preseason jokes to a competitive team despite a 1-8 start. With Kyler Murray returning from injury, they went 3-5 and now possess two first-round draft picks, including the fourth overall pick. Arizona has a legitimate chance to make noise in 2024.

24. Minnesota Vikings (7-10)

The Vikings deserve credit for staying afloat despite Kirk Cousins’ injury before Halloween. However, with Cousins injured and headed for free agency, the team’s future is uncertain. Significant changes are expected in Minneapolis.

25. Atlanta Falcons (7-10)

The anticipated hiring of Bill Belichick as the Falcons’ head coach has yet to materialize. As the Falcons express interest in additional candidates and no progress is made on the Belichick front, the situation has become protracted and surprising.

26. New York Giants (6-11)

While the Giants have identified promising pieces this season, their long-term prospects hinge on finding a clear vision at the quarterback position.

27. New York Jets (7-10)

Despite Aaron Rodgers’ injury, the Jets have opted to run it back with everyone, including Rodgers, for 2024. This decision intensifies the pressure on the team as they seek to justify their all-in approach.

28. Tennessee Titans (6-11)

The Titans’ hiring of Brian Callahan as head coach reflects the changing landscape of the NFL. Callahan’s background in a pass-happy offense contrasts with the Titans’ previous smash mouth, ball control approach under Mike Vrabel. The team hopes Callahan can impart some of the lessons learned from Joe Burrow and the Bengals on Will Levis.

29. Los Angeles Chargers (5-12)

Similar to the Falcons, the Chargers’ coaching hire has been delayed. While many big-name candidates remain in the playoffs, the Chargers, like the Falcons, appeared interested in Jim Harbaugh. However, no resolution has been reached yet.

30. Washington Commanders (4-13)

The hiring of Adam Peters as general manager signals positive changes in Washington. Peters’ experience in San Francisco, a successful and stable organization, suggests a commitment to turning over a new leaf in Washington. This development is encouraging for Commanders fans.

31. New England Patriots (4-13)

The Patriots’ succession plan for Bill Belichick’s eventual departure has been executed smoothly. Jerod Mayo’s appointment as head coach has been well-received, and his future with the team is exciting.

32. Carolina Panthers (2-15)

The Panthers have begun their rebuilding process by hiring Dan Morgan as general manager. Morgan’s familiarity with the organization, having played seven seasons in Carolina and spent three years in their front office, provides him with a strong understanding of the team’s needs.

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