These teams are aiming for a playoff spot after missing out in 2023.
Last week, we talked about seven teams that made the playoffs in 2023 but might not make it in 2024. As expected, some fans were unhappy! Nobody likes hearing their favorite team might miss the playoffs, but the math is simple: On average, the last three years (since the NFL expanded the playoffs to 14 teams), we see about six to seven new teams making the playoffs each year.
Injuries, performance changes, or just plain luck can greatly impact whether a team makes it to the playoffs or not. With that in mind, let’s look at some teams that could improve and MAKE the playoffs after missing out last year. You can find last year’s list here – it had some good picks (Texans, Lions) and some not-so-great ones, and one (the Jets) that got sidetracked by injuries.
New York Jets
The Jets are at the top of this list for a reason. They finished last year 7-10, which was better than their expected 5.8 wins. They also went 4-5 in close games and did all this without Aaron Rodgers, who got injured four plays into the season. The main issue for Rodgers, aside from his age (turns 41 in December), was the question marks on the Jets’ offensive line. They addressed this problem by signing Tyron Smith and Morgan Moses and using a first-round pick on Olu Fashanu.
Read Also: NFL 2024 All-Under-25 Offensive Team: Lions Lead with Three Players
If the offensive line holds up, the offense could be exciting. Rodgers, Breece Hall, and Garrett Wilson make a fun trio. Other additions like Mike Williams (if healthy), Malachi Corley, and Braelon Allen through the draft also look promising.
Defensively, as long as Haason Reddick returns to camp, the Jets should be strong. It all depends on Rodgers’ health this year.
Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals’ success also hinges on their quarterback, Joe Burrow. Burrow had an interesting offseason, spending time in Paris and coming to training camp with a new look. Despite some offseason antics, Burrow is known for winning when it matters.
Last year, the Bengals went 5-4 in close games. Burrow’s injuries impacted their performance. During a five-game stretch when Burrow was healthy, he was on pace for 5,032 passing yards, 41 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions over 17 games. If Burrow stays healthy, the Bengals should make it to the playoffs.
Defensively, some concerns remain, like Trey Hendrickson’s contract. However, with new additions like Sheldon Rankins and Vonn Bell, the defense should be solid.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Last year, the Jaguars started strong at 8-3 but collapsed towards the end of the season. To support quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who recently got a big contract, the Jaguars signed Gabe Davis and drafted Brian Thomas Jr. With Christian Kirk, Evan Engram, Travis Etienne, and Tank Bigsby, the offense has plenty of weapons.
Despite battling injuries, Lawrence showed potential last season. If he stays healthy, the Jaguars could make the playoffs.
Los Angeles Chargers
Betting on the Chargers means betting on their coach, Jim Harbaugh, who has a strong record of winning wherever he goes. Although quarterback Justin Herbert was diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, the team remains hopeful.
Harbaugh’s system should make Herbert more efficient. The draft additions of Joe Alt and Ladd McConkey are perfect fits. Despite losing Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, the offense looks promising.
Defensively, keeping Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack was a smart move. The Chargers underperformed last year, but with Harbaugh, they have the potential to bounce back and make the playoffs.
Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons’ playoff hopes hinge on Kirk Cousins, who joined the team after the Vikings didn’t commit to him long-term. With new coach Raheem Morris and offensive coordinator Zac Robinson, the Falcons upgraded their offense with Cousins.
Drake London, Kyle Pitts, and Bijan Robinson should benefit from the new quarterback. Despite some defensive concerns, Morris is a capable coach who should improve the team.
Chicago Bears
The Bears are often hyped as a playoff team, and this year might be their chance. They have a decent offensive line and weapons like Keenan Allen, Rome Odunze, and D.J. Moore.
Their defense, improved by Montez Sweat, could take a step forward. With rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, the Bears have a shot at making the playoffs.
Seattle Seahawks
The Seahawks have a new coaching staff led by Mike Macdonald. Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb brings a high-powered offense from Washington, which should benefit DK Metcalf, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Tyler Lockett.
The defense has potential with Macdonald’s coaching. If the Seahawks’ new plan works, they could be a surprise playoff team in 2024.
