As we approach the thrilling climax of the NFL regular season, excitement is building for the 2024-2025 playoffs and Super Bowl 59. With fewer than three weeks remaining, fans are eager to know which teams are in the mix for postseason glory. Here’s an updated look at the current standings as we gear up for Week 16’s late Sunday and Monday games.
NFL standings for Week 16
AFC playoff picture
The AFC playoff race is heating up, and it’s time to break down the contenders.
1. Kansas City Chiefs 14-1 (champions, AFC West): The Chiefs, led by the phenomenal Patrick Mahomes, have established a two-game cushion over the Bills for the top seed. They need to maintain this lead, especially since the Bills hold the head-to-head tiebreaker. A win against the Steelers in Week 17 would secure home-field advantage for Kansas City.
2. Buffalo Bills 12-3 (champions, AFC East): The Bills are keeping pace with the Chiefs after a hard-fought victory over the Patriots. They are eyeing the No. 2 seed and need to continue their winning ways to secure a favorable playoff position.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers 10-5 (first place, AFC North): The Steelers have clinched a wild-card spot, marking another successful season under Mike Tomlin. However, the division title remains up for grabs after a loss to the Ravens. Their final two games against the Chiefs and Bengals will be crucial.
4. Houston Texans 9-6 (champions, AFC South): The Texans are playoff-bound after clinching their second consecutive division title. With the playoffs on the horizon, they’ll focus on fine-tuning their game as they prepare to host a wild-card matchup.
5. Baltimore Ravens 10-5 (second place, AFC North): The Ravens have also secured a wild-card berth and are in a strong position to challenge for the division title. Their upcoming games against the Texans and Browns will be pivotal.
6. Los Angeles Chargers 9-6 (second place, AFC West): The Chargers have surged ahead of the Broncos after a thrilling victory on Thursday night. They can clinch a playoff spot if the Dolphins and Colts stumble in Week 16.
7. Denver Broncos 9-6 (third place, AFC West): The Broncos face an uphill battle after a tough loss to the Chargers. They still have a shot at the playoffs but will need some help from other teams.
Who’s in the hunt?
The Bengals are still in the mix, but they’ll need to beat the Broncos in Week 17 and hope for losses from the Dolphins and Colts to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Who’s out?
Unfortunately, several teams have already been eliminated from playoff contention before Week 16, leaving fans disappointed.
NFC playoff picture
Now, let’s shift our focus to the NFC, where the competition is just as fierce.
1. Detroit Lions 13-2 (first place, NFC North): The Lions have officially secured their playoff spot, but the division title is still up for grabs. They hold a narrow lead over the Vikings thanks to a head-to-head tiebreaker, setting the stage for an exciting matchup in Week 18.
2. Philadelphia Eagles 12-3 (first place, NFC East): The Eagles missed a chance to clinch the division title after a surprising loss to the Commanders. They’ll be looking to bounce back against the Cowboys, potentially without their star quarterback, Jalen Hurts.
3. Los Angeles Rams 9-6 (first place, NFC West): The Rams have taken the lead in their division after a solid win over the Jets. They’re in a good position, especially with the Buccaneers faltering.
4. Atlanta Falcons 8-7 (first place, NFC South): The Falcons have surged ahead of the Buccaneers after a decisive victory over the Giants. They hold the tiebreaker thanks to a season sweep and have a favorable conference record.
5. Minnesota Vikings 13-2 (second place, NFC North): The Vikings have clinched their playoff berth and are keeping the pressure on the Lions. Their recent win against the Seahawks has set the stage for a thrilling finish.
6. Green Bay Packers 10-4 (third place, NFC North): The Packers can secure a playoff spot with a win over the Saints or if the Falcons and either the Rams or Seahawks lose.
7. Washington Commanders 10-5 (second place, NFC East): The Commanders are still in the hunt for the division title after their comeback win against the Eagles. They can clinch a wild-card berth with a victory over the Falcons in Week 17.
Who’s in the hunt?
The Buccaneers are still in the mix, but their chances are dwindling. They hold a tiebreaker over the Commanders, which could be crucial if things come down to the wire.
Who’s out?
As we look at the standings, it’s clear that several teams have already been eliminated from playoff contention, marking the end of their postseason dreams.
With the playoffs just around the corner, the stakes are higher than ever. Every game counts, and fans are on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the thrilling matchups that will determine who will make a run for the coveted Super Bowl title. Will your favorite team secure a spot? Only time will tell!
