As the NFL regular season progresses into its final weeks, the playoff picture is solidifying, with teams jockeying for position ahead of the postseason. Updates from USA TODAY Sports reveal the current standings and scenarios for teams as they approach Week 17.
In the NFC, the Seattle Seahawks are positioned at the top of the conference with a record of 12-3, having claimed the NFC West title. With victories in their final two games, they can secure the No. 1 seed. Their remaining schedule includes games against the Carolina Panthers and San Francisco 49ers. Following closely are the Chicago Bears, who, with an 11-4 record, have clinched the NFC North title. A win against the 49ers and a home game against the Lions could also see them in contention for home-field advantage.
The Philadelphia Eagles (10-5) have similarly solidified their playoff berth after topping the Washington Commanders, marking the first time in over two decades they have won their division in consecutive years. The Eagles will be looking to capitalize on their momentum as they face the Buffalo Bills and the Commanders again. The Carolina Panthers (8-7) lead the NFC South and can clinch the division title with a win against the Seahawks and a loss by the Buccaneers.
In the wild card race, the San Francisco 49ers (11-4) and Los Angeles Rams (11-4) continue to compete fiercely, while the Green Bay Packers (9-6-1) remain in wild card contention despite a challenging season. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, at 7-8, still have a slender chance for the playoffs but must win their final two games to keep their hopes alive.
In the AFC, the Denver Broncos stand as the top team with a 13-3 record and have their eyes set on the first seed after winning the AFC West title, their first in ten years. They need a win in their final game against the Chargers to solidify their position. The New England Patriots (12-3) have also clinched their division and are in contention for the top seed, dependent on their performance and that of the Broncos.
The Jacksonville Jaguars (11-4) have locked in their playoff spot following a seven-game winning streak and aim to secure the AFC South title as they face the Colts and Titans in the upcoming weeks. The Pittsburgh Steelers, leading the AFC North at 9-6, can secure the division by winning their remaining games against the Browns and Ravens.
Wild card spots are still in play for the Buffalo Bills, Houston Texans, and Los Angeles Chargers, each with strong finishes keeping their playoff dreams alive. Meanwhile, teams such as the Baltimore Ravens and others still hold slim chances, making the next week critical for playoff implications.
With the postseason just around the corner, fan anticipation builds as each team strives to secure their path to the Super Bowl. The last few games will prove essential, not only for those clinching spots but also for shaping the playoffs’ competitive landscape. As teams prepare for these crucial matchups, their resilience and determination will be pivotal in this high-stakes format.
Fans can look forward to an exciting conclusion to the regular season, setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating playoff showdown.