NFL Playoff Picture Projections: Updated Chances to Make the Postseason, Win Divisions
The 2025 NFL season is heating up as we pass Week 7, and the playoff landscape is beginning to take shape. Teams are battling for position, and the race to Super Bowl LX is intensifying. Using ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI), we’ve analyzed the remaining schedule to project the playoff picture for both the AFC and NFC, providing updated odds for each team’s chances of making the playoffs, winning their division, and even reaching the Super Bowl.
AFC Playoff Projections
The New England Patriots have surged to the top of the AFC East, fueled by an outstanding start from quarterback Drake Maye. Maye’s record-breaking performance against the Titans, where he completed an astounding 91.3% of his passes, surpassed Tom Brady’s previous franchise record. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Bills, coming off their bye week, are preparing to face the Carolina Panthers. Quarterback Josh Allen is determined to avoid a three-game losing streak, a feat he hasn’t experienced since his rookie season, adding intrigue to the AFC East battle. The New York Jets and Miami Dolphins are struggling to stay relevant in the division race.
The Indianapolis Colts are currently leading the AFC, driven by the exceptional performance of running back Jonathan Taylor. Taylor’s historic season continued as he became only the fourth player in NFL history to record three games with three rushing touchdowns within the first seven weeks.
Key AFC Teams and Their Playoff Outlook:
- New England Patriots: Strong contenders to win the AFC East with Drake Maye leading the charge.
- Buffalo Bills: Need to rebound after the bye week to maintain their playoff hopes.
- Indianapolis Colts: Jonathan Taylor’s dominance makes them a force to be reckoned with in the AFC.
- Other AFC Teams: Teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens remain in the hunt, while others face an uphill battle to secure a playoff spot.
NFC Playoff Projections
In a pivotal "Monday Night Football" clash, the Detroit Lions emerged victorious against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, propelling them to the top of the NFC playoff projections. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs showcased his talent with 136 yards and two touchdowns, while the Lions’ defense limited Tampa Bay to just nine points despite missing their entire starting secondary.
The Seattle Seahawks also capitalized on their "Monday Night Football" matchup, defeating the Houston Texans 27-19. Receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba continued his impressive performance, recording over 100 receiving yards and a touchdown for the third consecutive game. He has accounted for 46% of the team’s receiving yards, the highest rate in the NFL.
Key NFC Teams and Their Playoff Outlook:
- Detroit Lions: The Lions’ victory solidified their position as a top contender in the NFC.
- Seattle Seahawks: Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s emergence has elevated the Seahawks’ offense.
- Other NFC Teams: The Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, and Dallas Cowboys are also strong contenders, while other teams are vying for a wild-card spot.
Updated Playoff Schedule
- Wild-Card Round: January 10-12, 2026
- Divisional Round: January 17-18, 2026
- AFC and NFC Championship Games: January 25, 2026
- Super Bowl LX: February 8, 2026 (Santa Clara, California)
Conclusion
As the 2025 NFL season progresses, the playoff picture will continue to evolve. Teams must capitalize on opportunities and navigate challenges to secure their spot in the postseason. The race to Super Bowl LX promises to be an exciting one, with several teams vying for the ultimate prize. Keep an eye on the key matchups and player performances that will shape the playoff landscape in the weeks to come.
