As the2025 NFL regular season reaches its midpoint, fans and analysts alike are tracking the ever-changing playoff landscape. With each week bringing new wins, losses, and surprises, the question on everyone’s mind is: How many teams make the NFL playoffs? The answer is clear: 14 teams—seven from each conference (AFC and NFC)—earn a spot in the postseason each year, with the bracket starting to take shape after Week11.
The NFL Playoff Structure The NFL expanded its playoff format in recent years, increasing the number of playoff teams from12 to14. This means each conference now sends three division winners and four wild card teams to the postseason. The top seed in each conference receives a first-round bye, while the remaining six teams compete in the Wild Card round. This structure ensures more teams have a shot at the Super Bowl and keeps the competition fierce throughout the season.
NFC Playoff Picture: Who’s In?
After Week11, the NFC playoff field is starting to crystallize. Here’s a look at the projected seven teams:
- Philadelphia Eagles (8-2) – The Eagles are the NFC East leaders and are in a strong position to secure the top seed. With a tough remaining schedule, including games against the Cowboys, Bears, Chargers, Raiders, Commanders, Bills, and a rematch with the Commanders, the Eagles are poised to make a deep playoff run.
- Los Angeles Rams (8-2) – The Rams have taken over the NFC West after a five-game winning streak. Their remaining games include matchups with the Buccaneers, Panthers, Cardinals, Lions, Seahawks, Falcons, and another game against the Cardinals. The Rams are just a game behind the Eagles in the conference standings.
- Chicago Bears (7-3) – The Bears have surged to the top of the NFC North, winning seven of their last eight games. Their schedule features games against the Steelers, Eagles, Packers, Browns, Packers,49ers, and Lions. The Bears’ momentum could carry them into the playoffs.
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-4) – The Buccaneers lead the NFC South, though their lead is slim. Their remaining schedule includes games against the Rams, Cardinals, Saints, Falcons, Panthers, Dolphins, and Panthers again. The Bucs’ manageable schedule could help them secure a playoff spot.
- Seattle Seahawks (7-3) – The Seahawks are the first wild card team, despite a tough loss to the Rams. Their remaining games include matchups with the Titans, Vikings, Falcons, Colts, Rams, Panthers, and49ers. The Seahawks’ resilience will be tested as they aim for a playoff berth.
- Green Bay Packers (6-3-1) – The Packers are the second wild card team, having advanced one rung in the NFC seedings. Their remaining schedule features games against the Vikings, Lions, Bears, Broncos, Bears, Ravens, and Vikings. The Packers’ ability to overcome injuries will be crucial.
- San Francisco49ers (7-4) – The49ers are the third wild card team, with QB Brock Purdy back in the lineup. Their remaining games include matchups with the Panthers, Browns, Titans, Colts, Bears, and Seahawks. The49ers are building momentum as the playoffs approach.
AFC Playoff Picture: Who’s In?
The AFC playoff field is equally competitive, with seven teams vying for postseason spots:
- Denver Broncos (9-2) – The Broncos have a chokehold on the AFC West and are the conference’s top seed. Their remaining schedule includes games against the Commanders, Raiders, Packers, Jaguars, Chiefs, and Chargers. The Broncos’ dominance could lead to a deep playoff run.
- New England Patriots (9-2) – The Patriots are the AFC East leaders and are in prime position to win the division. Their remaining games include matchups with the Bengals, Giants, Bills, Ravens, Jets, and Dolphins. The Patriots’ disciplined approach could secure a top seed.
- Indianapolis Colts (8-2) – The Colts lead the AFC South, but their schedule toughens in the second half. Their remaining games include matchups with the Chiefs, Texans, Jaguars, Seahawks,49ers, Jaguars, and Texans. The capacity of the Colts to adjust will be crucial.
- Pittsburgh Steelers (6-4) – The Steelers lead the AFC North, but face challenges without QB Aaron Rodgers. Their remaining schedule includes games against the Bears, Bills, Ravens, Dolphins, Lions, Browns, and Ravens. The Steelers’ resilience will be tested.
- Buffalo Bills (7-3) – The Bills are the first wild card team, with a tough game against the Texans looming. Their remaining games include matchups with the Texans, Steelers, Bengals, Patriots, Browns, Eagles, and Jets. The Bills’ offense will be crucial.
- Los Angeles Chargers (7-4) – The Chargers are the second wild card team, with a week off to recover. Their remaining schedule includes games against the Raiders, Eagles, Chiefs, Cowboys, Texans, and Broncos. The Chargers’ ability to bounce back will be important.
- Jacksonville Jaguars (6-4) – The Jaguars are the third wild card team, with a schedule featuring games against the Cardinals, Titans, Colts, Jets, Broncos, Colts, and Titans. The Jaguars’ head-to-head tiebreakers could be critical.
What’s Next?
As the regular season moves forward, the playoff landscape will persist in its evolution. The number of teams making the NFL playoffs remains at14, but the specific teams and their seeding will shift with each week’s results. Fans can expect more drama, upsets, and surprises as the race for the postseason intensifies.