The NFL playoff race is heating up as the 2025 season approaches the final weeks, with Week 11 now concluded. With only seven weeks left in the regular season, teams are already jockeying for playoff positions and critical seeding ahead of the postseason. Traditional powerhouses like the Buffalo Bills and Philadelphia Eagles are positioned well, while unexpected challengers like the Denver Broncos and Indianapolis Colts are making strong pushes for playoff berths.
As Week 12 approaches, here’s a look at the current landscapes of both the AFC and NFC playoff pictures. The race has intensified with some teams solidifying their positions while others are desperately trying to secure a place in the playoffs.
In the AFC, the Denver Broncos and the New England Patriots lead the standings at 9-2. The Broncos have shown impressive resolve behind quarterback Bo Nix and a formidable defense, while the Patriots, led by MVP candidate Drake Maye, are eyeing their first AFC East title since 2019 with a favorable remaining schedule. The Indianapolis Colts sit tantalizingly close at 8-2, but their path remains challenging with a series of tough matchups looming.
The Pittsburgh Steelers, currently 6-4, are benefiting from Aaron Rodgers’ experience, though they face a tough final stretch against several competitive teams. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Chargers (7-4) and Buffalo Bills (7-4) are in wild-card contention, but both must navigate a tricky schedule to maintain their spots. The Jacksonville Jaguars, currently holding on at 6-4, have a promising schedule ahead that could help them secure a playoff position.
In the NFC, the Philadelphia Eagles remain dominant at 8-2, showcasing a rock-solid defense and a quarterback in Jalen Hurts poised for big plays. Following closely are the Los Angeles Rams, also at 8-2, riding the success of quarterback Matthew Stafford. The Chicago Bears (7-3) and Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-4) are also in the chase, each with important divisional matchups on the horizon.
As the final weeks unfold, teams like the Seattle Seahawks and Green Bay Packers are looking to capitalize on remaining opportunities to rise higher in the standings. The San Francisco 49ers, 7-4, have gained new momentum following the return of quarterback Brock Purdy, potentially enhancing their playoff hopes.
Notably, the hunt for playoff spots remains wide open, especially in the tightly contested NFC North. With several divisional matchups remaining, teams like the Detroit Lions and Carolina Panthers are still in the conversation, underscoring the unpredictable nature of the league.
As the season enters its final stretch, fans can anticipate thrilling matchups and dramatic shifts in the playoff picture that showcase the depth and competitiveness of the NFL. Teams are striving not only for playoff berths but to secure favorable positions that could dictate their path to the Super Bowl this postseason.