• The Vikings shut in on the Lions: The Vikings and Lions are each 12-2 after Week 15, and the Vikings are closing in on the highest spot within the NFC North.
• The NFC West is within the Rams‘ arms: Back and forth, the NFC West goes, however who will come out on high?
• Unlock your edge with a PFF+ subscription: Get full entry to all our in-season fantasy instruments, together with weekly rankings, WR/CB matchup charts, weekly projections, the Start-Sit Optimizer and extra. Sign up now!
Estimated Reading Time: 11 minutes
The energy rankings beneath present clear tiers on every NFL group’s market evaluation, providing a complete view of group standings and future prospects. All of the data beneath and extra might be present in PFF’s energy rankings device, which is offered with a PFF+ subscription.
It’s necessary to notice that these rankings take into account extra than simply win-loss information and playoff seeding. Factors like participant and team-level grades, offensive and defensive effectivity, prior efficiency from previous seasons, and power of schedule all play a job. This is why groups with worse information and slimmer playoff hopes might rank greater than these with higher information who’ve managed wins in opposition to weaker opponents or delivered inconsistent performances from key gamers.
JUMP TO A TEAM:
ARZ | ATL | BLT | BUF | CAR | CIN | CHI | CLE | DEN | DAL | DET | GB | HOU | IND | JAX | KC| LVR | LAC | LAR | MIA | MIN | NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF | SEA | TB | TEN | WSH
1. Kansas City Chiefs
Strength of schedule up to now: 24
Strength of schedule remaining: 5
Projected avg. wins: 14.9
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 100.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 100.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 40.3
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 21.0
The Chiefs improved to 13-1 after an unconvincing win over the Browns — a well-known components this season. However, the large storyline is Patrick Mahomes’ ankle harm, which he suffered late within the recreation. He is taken into account week-to-week, however with their present place, the Chiefs don’t have to rush him again. Still, realizing Mahomes, he’ll do every little thing he can to return shortly. His 81.0 PFF grade ranks ninth amongst quarterbacks this season.
2. Philadelphia Eagles
Strength of schedule up to now: 26
Strength of schedule remaining: 25
Projected avg. wins: 14.4
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 100.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 99.7
% likelihood of successful the convention: 32.5
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 18.0
The Eagles silenced critics of their passing recreation with a powerful exhibiting in opposition to the Steelers. Jalen Hurts accomplished 25 of 32 passes for 290 yards and two touchdowns, whereas star receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith mixed for 19 catches, 219 yards, and two scores within the 27-13 victory. That’s the way you set the tone. The Eagles improved to 12-2 and now maintain a 33% likelihood to win the NFC. Their protection is the highest-graded unit within the league (87.8).
3. Buffalo Bills
Strength of schedule up to now: 7
Strength of schedule remaining: 31
Projected avg. wins: 13.5
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 100.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 100.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 24.7
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 12.1
In their final two video games, the Bills have scored 90 factors and racked up 1,009 complete yards of offense. However, they’ve additionally allowed 86 factors and 978 yards on protection — a regarding development. Fortunately, they face the Jets and the Patriots (twice) of their subsequent three video games, offering a primary alternative to make defensive changes earlier than the playoffs. Meanwhile, Josh Allen’s MVP marketing campaign is gaining steam, along with his 91.1 PFF grade rating third amongst quarterbacks.
4. Detroit Lions
Strength of schedule up to now: 15
Strength of schedule remaining: 13
Projected avg. wins: 14.0
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 100.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 73.5
% likelihood of successful the convention: 29.2
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 15.5
The Lions suffered their first loss since Week 2 in a high-scoring recreation in opposition to the Buffalo Bills, dropping to 12-2 and giving the Vikings an opportunity to problem for the NFC North title after their Monday evening win. The dangerous information acquired worse with David Montgomery being misplaced for the season attributable to an MCL tear. The Lions are already coping with quite a few accidents, and the query now could be whether or not their depth can carry them the remainder of the best way. Amon-Ra St. Brown continues to shine, along with his 86.7 PFF grade rating fifth amongst receivers.
5. Baltimore Ravens
Strength of schedule up to now: 2
Strength of schedule remaining: 16
Projected avg. wins: 11.0
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 99.1
% likelihood of successful the division: 32.3
% likelihood of successful the convention: 11.5
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 5.6
Baltimore cruised to a 35-7 victory over the Giants, powered by Lamar Jackson’s 5 landing passes. Jackson now has 34 passing touchdowns and simply three interceptions this season, placing him on tempo for profession highs in passing yards and touchdowns. The Ravens improved to 9-5, and with the Steelers’ loss later within the night, the AFC North race is tighter than ever — this one goes right down to the wire. So is the MVP race, with Jackson’s 92.2 PFF grade main all quarterbacks.
6. Minnesota Vikings
Strength of schedule up to now: 31
Strength of schedule remaining: 3
Projected avg. wins: 13.5
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 100.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 26.5
% likelihood of successful the convention: 13.5
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 6.5
The Vikings took care of enterprise after the Lions’ loss on Sunday evening, defeating an inferior opponent and night the NFC North race. They at the moment are tied for the division lead following a convincing 30-12 win over the Bears on Monday Night Football. With a tricky end-of-season schedule forward, the NFC North title might very properly come right down to their Week 18 showdown in opposition to the Lions. Justin Jefferson continues to excel, as he has posted an 88.6 PFF grade that ranks fourth amongst receivers.
7. Green Bay Packers
Strength of schedule up to now: 4
Strength of schedule remaining: 23
Projected avg. wins: 12.0
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 99.5
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 8.1
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 4.0
The Packers jumped out to an early 14-0 lead in opposition to the Seahawks on Sunday Night Football and by no means appeared again. They persistently exploited Seattle’s protection, creating huge holes within the working recreation and overcoming a unit that had been stout in latest weeks. A Week 16 win in opposition to the Saints would formally clinch a playoff spot for Green Bay, however Matt LaFleur’s group is all however in. Josh Jacobs continues to shine, along with his 90.2 PFF grade rating third amongst working backs.
8. Pittsburgh Steelers
Strength of schedule up to now: 25
Strength of schedule remaining: 1
Projected avg. wins: 11.4
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 100.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 67.7
% likelihood of successful the convention: 8.0
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 3.4
In Week 15, the Steelers punted on fourth-and-8 with over 10 minutes left within the fourth quarter and by no means acquired the ball again. They have been overpowered by a bodily and environment friendly Eagles group, falling to 10-4 on the season. The hole between them and the Ravens — who they face subsequent week — is now only one recreation, organising a possible showdown for the AFC North title. T.J. Watt continues to dominate, along with his 92.6 PFF grade rating second amongst edge defenders.
9. Houston Texans
Strength of schedule up to now: 27
Strength of schedule remaining: 8
Projected avg. wins: 10.5
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 100.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 100.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 7.4
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 3.4
The Texans secured a strong win over a playoff-hopeful Dolphins group because of a stingy defensive effort. They intercepted Tua Tagovailoa 3 times and held Miami to only 3.6 yards per play. However, the Texans’ offense additionally struggled, managing solely 3.6 yards per play in opposition to the Dolphins’ protection. Despite the inconsistency, Houston clinched the AFC South following the Colts’ loss to the Broncos. They stay a tricky group to gauge, however Nico Collins continues to shine with a league-best 92.0 PFF grade amongst receivers.
10. Denver Broncos
Strength of schedule up to now: 28
Strength of schedule remaining: 4
Projected avg. wins: 10.4
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 93.4
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 5.1
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 2.2
The Broncos overcame three Bo Nix interceptions to defeat the Colts 30-13, preserving their playoff hopes firmly inside attain. Denver now holds a 94% likelihood of constructing the playoffs, and a win in opposition to the Chargers on Thursday Night Football would all however finish their eight-year postseason drought. They’re making the appropriate strikes to safe a spot, fielding a protection that ranks first in EPA allowed per play.
11. San Francisco 49ers
Strength of schedule up to now: 8
Strength of schedule remaining: 12
Projected avg. wins: 7.5
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.0
The 49ers entered Thursday Night Football with a ten% likelihood of constructing the playoffs, however these odds plummeted to beneath 1% after a sluggish 12-6 loss to the Rams. Brock Purdy and the offense struggled, managing simply 191 complete yards and losing a powerful defensive effort, dropping the 49ers to 6-8. It’s been a disappointing season for a group with excessive expectations, however the finish is close to. Despite the group’s struggles, Fred Warner continues to excel, along with his 90.3 PFF grade main all linebackers.
12. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Strength of schedule up to now: 12
Strength of schedule remaining: 28
Projected avg. wins: 10.1
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 85.5
% likelihood of successful the division: 77.8
% likelihood of successful the convention: 5.7
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 2.6
The Buccaneers scored 30 unanswered factors in opposition to the NFL’s top-scoring protection in a dominant 40-17 win that took off within the second half. Now 8-6, Tampa Bay has an 85% likelihood of capturing the NFC South. Winners of 4 straight, they’re hitting their stride on the good time, with rookie working again Bucky Irving incomes an 88.7 PFF grade, the fourth-best amongst working backs.
13. Los Angeles Rams
Strength of schedule up to now: 5
Strength of schedule remaining: 24
Projected avg. wins: 9.7
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 55.4
% likelihood of successful the division: 54.8
% likelihood of successful the convention: 3.4
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 1.3
The Rams have gained seven of their final 9 video games and now management their future within the NFC West. At 8-6, they’re set for a vital Week 18 showdown with the Seahawks — a recreation that might determine the division title and a playoff spot. The Rams are heating up on the proper time, and having a star receiver like Puka Nacua definitely helps. His 92.0 PFF grade ranks second amongst vast receivers.
14. Washington Commanders
Strength of schedule up to now: 32
Strength of schedule remaining: 14
Projected avg. wins: 10.6
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 83.3
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.3
% likelihood of successful the convention: 3.8
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 1.6
Talk a couple of recreation on a knife’s edge. The Commanders held off the Saints on the ultimate play, stopping a two-point conversion try that will have value them the win. Instead, Washington improved to 9-5 and now seems to be set for its first playoff look since 2020. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has been sensational and is the front-runner for Offensive Rookie of the Year. His 88.3 PFF grade ranks fifth amongst quarterbacks.
15. Cincinnati Bengals
Strength of schedule up to now: 20
Strength of schedule remaining: 17
Projected avg. wins: 7.5
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 3.3
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 0.1
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.1
The Bengals scored 30 or extra factors for the seventh time this season of their 37-27 win over the Titans. However, they’ve additionally allowed 25 or extra factors in eight video games, which helps clarify their 6-8 file and slim 3% playoff likelihood. Changes are seemingly coming this offseason, with an anticipated deal with bettering the protection. Despite the group’s struggles, Joe Burrow continues to excel, with a 91.8 PFF grade that ranks second amongst quarterbacks.
16. Seattle Seahawks
Strength of schedule up to now: 16
Strength of schedule remaining: 15
Projected avg. wins: 9.5
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 36.6
% likelihood of successful the division: 35.5
% likelihood of successful the convention: 2.1
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.8
The Seahawks stumbled within the NFC West race, handing the Rams the division lead after a decisive loss to the Packers on Sunday Night Football. Though the group is hopeful Geno Smith will play in opposition to the Vikings after exiting Sunday’s recreation early with a knee harm, issues about their playoff likelihood is warranted. Kenneth Walker’s 88.5 PFF grade ranks fifth amongst working backs.
17. Los Angeles Chargers
Strength of schedule up to now: 19
Strength of schedule remaining: 27
Projected avg. wins: 9.8
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 82.6
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 2.5
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 1.0
Things began positively for the Chargers in opposition to the Buccaneers, however a second-half shutout and a powerful efficiency from Tampa Bay handed them their second straight loss at a essential time. Now 8-6, the Chargers nonetheless maintain the ultimate AFC wild-card spot, however a lingering ankle harm for Justin Herbert may complicate issues. Despite the setback, Herbert’s 88.6 PFF grade ranks fourth amongst quarterbacks.
18. Dallas Cowboys
Strength of schedule up to now: 17
Strength of schedule remaining: 7
Projected avg. wins: 7.0
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 0.3
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.0
The Cowboys cruised previous the Panthers 30-14, powered by a three-touchdown efficiency from Cooper Rush and a powerful defensive effort. However, it’s seemingly too little, too late for Dallas, as they’ve gained three of their final 4 video games however sit at 6-8. As at all times, the upcoming offseason will likely be one to observe in Dallas. Micah Parsons continues to shine, with a 90.0 PFF grade that ranks sixth amongst edge rushers.
19. Miami Dolphins
Strength of schedule up to now: 29
Strength of schedule remaining: 22
Projected avg. wins: 7.5
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 6.4
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 0.3
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.1
The Dolphins’ margin for error within the playoff race was already razor-thin, and their 20-12 loss to the Texans all however sealed their destiny for the 2024 season. Tua Tagovailoa’s 4 turnovers proved expensive, and the offense managed simply 3.6 yards per play. While the Dolphins will maintain combating, their playoff hopes are successfully over. Despite the struggles, Terron Armstead has been a brilliant spot, along with his 91.2 PFF grade rating second amongst tackles.
20. Atlanta Falcons
Strength of schedule up to now: 10
Strength of schedule remaining: 29
Projected avg. wins: 8.8
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 29.4
% likelihood of successful the division: 22.2
% likelihood of successful the convention: 1.0
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.4
The Falcons saved their slim playoff hopes alive with a 15-9 win over the Raiders on Monday Night Football, bettering to 7-7 and snapping a four-game dropping streak that value them the NFC South lead. The excellent news is that they face the third-easiest remaining schedule, so a successful season and a playoff berth are nonetheless inside attain. However, questions on Kirk Cousins’ long-term future because the starter will persist. Chris Lindstrom continues to excel, along with his 92.6 PFF grade main all guards.
21. Indianapolis Colts
Strength of schedule up to now: 5
Strength of schedule remaining: 32
Projected avg. wins: 8.0
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 15.2
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 0.2
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.1
Indianapolis did not capitalize on three Bo Nix turnovers, as a substitute committing 5 expensive turnovers of their very own — together with a touchback fumble by Jonathan Taylor on what ought to have been a protracted landing run. Mistakes like which might be inexcusable, and the Colts now have only a 15% likelihood of constructing the playoffs. Despite the struggles, Will Fries has stood out, along with his 86.9 PFF grade rating third amongst guards.
22. New York Jets
Strength of schedule up to now: 22
Strength of schedule remaining: 10
Projected avg. wins: 5.2
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.0
Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams proved their chemistry remains to be alive and properly in a 32-25 win over the Jaguars, even when the victory held little that means for the standings. Adams hauled in 9 of his 12 targets for 198 yards and two touchdowns, serving to the Jets snap a four-game dropping streak. His 91.2 PFF grade was his highest of the season.
23. Arizona Cardinals
Strength of schedule up to now: 3
Strength of schedule remaining: 20
Projected avg. wins: 8.5
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 10.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 9.7
% likelihood of successful the convention: 0.6
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.3
A decisive win over the Patriots retains the Cardinals firmly within the playoff hunt, although they continue to be one recreation behind the Rams and Seahawks, with only a 10% likelihood to win the NFC West. Regardless of the end result, the Cardinals have clearly taken a step ahead in 2024. Trey McBride has been a standout, along with his 85.1 PFF grade rating second amongst tight ends.
24. New Orleans Saints
Strength of schedule up to now: 23
Strength of schedule remaining: 18
Projected avg. wins: 6.1
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.0
The Saints took the Commanders to the wire, falling simply brief after a failed two-point conversion on the ultimate play. It’s encouraging to see a group with so little to play for nonetheless competing arduous. In the long term, these losses could also be useful for a franchise in want of a contemporary injection of expertise from the 2025 NFL Draft. Erik McCoy continues to shine, along with his 93.4 PFF grade rating first amongst facilities.
25. Chicago Bears
Strength of schedule up to now: 18
Strength of schedule remaining: 6
Projected avg. wins: 4.9
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.0
Two months in the past, the vibes have been at an all-time excessive in Chicago. The Bears have been 4-2, and Caleb Williams was being hailed as the way forward for the franchise. That optimism nonetheless holds true, however after eight consecutive losses, the group is in disarray. Big adjustments are seemingly coming this offseason, however one factor is obvious: whoever takes over in Chicago has a quarterback to construct round.
26. Cleveland Browns
Strength of schedule up to now: 9
Strength of schedule remaining: 9
Projected avg. wins: 3.9
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.0
Over the final three weeks, Jameis Winston has proven why he seemingly isn’t the long-term reply for the Browns at quarterback. He’s thrown eight interceptions throughout that span, together with three in Week 15 in opposition to the Chiefs earlier than being benched within the 21-7 loss. The finish is close to for the Browns’ season, however the query stays: what occurs subsequent? Despite the struggles, Myles Garrett continues to excel, along with his 92.3 PFF grade rating third amongst edge rushers.
27. Jacksonville Jaguars
Strength of schedule up to now: 11
Strength of schedule remaining: 30
Projected avg. wins: 4.3
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.0
If the season ended at this time, the Jaguars would maintain a top-five decide within the 2025 NFL Draft — however which place they’d goal is anybody’s guess. Jacksonville has a number of holes to deal with, and the following few weeks will likely be essential in figuring out their most urgent wants. The brilliant spot this season has been their 2024 first-round decide, Brian Thomas Jr., who has put up 956 receiving yards and eight touchdowns, each tops amongst rookie receivers.
28. Tennessee Titans
Strength of schedule up to now: 13
Strength of schedule remaining: 21
Projected avg. wins: 4.1
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.0
The Titans benched Will Levis throughout their 37-27 loss to the Bengals, however Mason Rudolph didn’t present any solutions at quarterback both. Now sitting at 3-11, Tennessee would have the third total decide if the season ended at this time. The huge query: Do they belief Levis sufficient to present him one other 12 months? Time will inform. On a brighter word, rookie defensive sort out T’Vondre Sweat seems to be like a future star, along with his 76.2 PFF grade rating sixth amongst rookie defenders.
29. New England Patriots
Strength of schedule up to now: 30
Strength of schedule remaining: 2
Projected avg. wins: 3.6
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.0
The Patriots dropped their fourth straight recreation with a 30-17 loss to the Cardinals in Week 15, falling to 3-11 on the season. They at present maintain the fourth total decide, elevating a well-known debate: do they draft an offensive lineman to guard Drake Maye or a receiver to catch passes from him? It’s paying homage to the Penei Sewell vs. Ja’Marr Chase dilemma. One factor is obvious — Maye’s 89.9 speeding grade, second amongst quarterbacks, highlights his dual-threat potential.
30. Carolina Panthers
Strength of schedule up to now: 21
Strength of schedule remaining: 19
Projected avg. wins: 3.9
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.0
Bryce Young was sacked six instances within the Panthers’ 30-14 loss to the Cowboys, however the setback shouldn’t dampen optimism. Young is ready to get one other shot because the starter in 2025 — and rightly so. Growing pains like Sunday’s efficiency are a part of the method, however there’s motive to consider in his potential. Young at present holds the sixth-highest big-time throw price within the NFL for 2025.
31. New York Giants
Strength of schedule up to now: 14
Strength of schedule remaining: 11
Projected avg. wins: 2.7
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.0
The Giants have been little greater than a pace bump for the Ravens in Week 15, extending their dropping streak to 9 video games. The dialog now shifts as to if New York may have a brand new teaching workers and entrance workplace subsequent season. While this 12 months’s outcomes counsel in any other case, Brian Daboll has beforehand proven he can get rather a lot out of restricted expertise. On the brilliant facet, rookie receiver Malik Nabers continues to impress, along with his 82.0 PFF grade rating fifteenth amongst vast receivers.
32. Las Vegas Raiders
Strength of schedule up to now: 1
Strength of schedule remaining: 26
Projected avg. wins: 3.2
% likelihood of constructing the playoffs: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the division: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the convention: 0.0
% likelihood of successful the Super Bowl: 0.0
No matter who begins at quarterback, the Raiders maintain discovering methods to lose. Their 15-9 defeat to the Falcons marked their tenth consecutive loss, giving them the longest dropping streak within the NFL. With Maxx Crosby out for the season, there’s little left to observe for in Las Vegas. All eyes now flip to the 2025 NFL Draft, the place the Raiders may very properly maintain the primary total decide.