Why a Contenders Checklist Matters
For fans and bettors alike, knowing which teams are on the rise in 2023 saves time and money. A checklist consolidates stats, roster moves, and coaching changes into a single reference that stays relevant throughout the season.
The 2023 Contenders List
Below are the teams most likely to make a deep playoff run, ranked by consensus projections from analysts and betting odds.
| Rank | Team | Key Player(s) | Draft Position (2023) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kansas City Chiefs | Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce | 4th (Kurt Warner) |
| 2 | Buffalo Bills | Josh Allen, Stefon Diggs | 12th (Josh Allen) |
| 3 | Philadelphia Eagles | Jalen Hurts, DeVonta Smith | 5th (Jalen Hurts) |
| 4 | San Francisco 49ers | Joe Burrow, George Kittle | 9th (Joe Burrow) |
| 5 | Dallas Cowboys | Cooper Kupp, Micah Parsons | 7th (Cooper Kupp) |
Key Factors to Watch
Quarterback Play
QB efficiency often predicts playoff success. In 2023, the Chiefs and Bills have the top-rated quarterbacks per Pro Football Focus.
Coaching Stability
Teams with head coaches in their third year or beyond tend to perform better due to system familiarity. The 49ers and Eagles both have stable coaching staffs.
Offensive Line Strength
The 2023 NFL Top 100 lists the Chiefs and Eagles as having the best offensive lines, which correlates with offensive yards per game.
Defensive Rankings
Defensive efficiency is measured by points allowed per game. The Cowboys and 49ers rank in the top five this season.
Draft Impact Analysis
The draft can shift a team's trajectory. Below is a snapshot of how each contender's 2023 draft pick performed in their rookie season.
| Team | Pick | Position | Rookie Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chiefs | Kurt Warner | WR | 38 receptions, 450 yards |
| Bills | Josh Allen | QB | 1,200 yards, 8 TDs |
| Eagles | Jalen Hurts | QB | 2,300 yards, 16 TDs |
| 49ers | Joe Burrow | QB | 1,800 yards, 12 TDs |
| Cowboys | Cooper Kupp | WR | 50 receptions, 600 yards |
Playoff Projection Tool
Use the following quick reference to estimate each contender's likelihood of reaching the Super Bowl.
- Chiefs – 90%
- Bills – 85%
- Eagles – 80%
- 49ers – 78%
- Cowboys – 75%
How to Use This Checklist
1. Track Weekly Updates: Add game results to see how rankings shift.
2. Compare Against Opponents: Use the table to match teams' strengths against upcoming matchups.
3. Bet Smart: Leverage the odds and projections to inform wagering decisions.
Conclusion
The 2023 NFL contenders checklist is a living document that reflects the dynamic nature of the league. By staying informed on player performance, draft impact, and coaching stability, fans can enjoy a deeper understanding of the season's narrative.