2026 NFL Playoff Picks and Predictions

ByNayon

With Week 10 approaching, the playoff race is shaping up across both conferences. Based on the current standings, here’s how the AFC and NFC playoff brackets would look if the season ended today – including first-round matchups, potential upsets, and Super Bowl predictions.

AFC Playoff Picture

1. Indianapolis Colts (7-2)

The Colts have become one of the AFC’s most balanced teams, boasting a +109 point differential and undefeated home record (5-0). Led by Anthony Richardson and a powerful run game, they’re the current No. 1 seed.

2. New England Patriots (7-2)

Bill Belichick’s rebuilt squad is back in top form, riding a six-game win streak. Their defense has given up just 169 points — one of the best marks in the league.

3. Denver Broncos (7-2)

Russell Wilson’s comeback season and Denver’s opportunistic defense make them a real contender. The Broncos’ home field advantage in the altitude could be a major postseason weapon.

4. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-3)

Mike Tomlin’s team continues to grind out wins despite a narrow +7 differential. They’d host a Wild Card round game at Acrisure Stadium.

Wild Cards:

5. Buffalo Bills (6-2) – Josh Allen’s offense is thriving again; Buffalo has a +68 point differential and two big road wins.

6. LA Chargers (6-3) – Justin Herbert and the Bolts are finding rhythm, with strong divisional play (3-0).

7. Jacksonville Jaguars (5-3) – Despite a negative point differential (-8), Jacksonville holds the final playoff spot for now.

AFC Wild Card Round (Projected Matchups)

(2) Patriots vs (7) Jaguars – Patriots win easily; defense dominates at home.

(3) Broncos vs (6) Chargers – Broncos win tight game; experience and defense prevail.

(4) Steelers vs (5) Bills – Bills offense too explosive for Steelers’ secondary.

AFC Divisional Round:

(1) Colts vs (5) Bills – Bills upset Colts in shootout.

(2) Patriots vs (3) Broncos – Patriots win defensive battle at Foxborough.

AFC Championship:

Buffalo Bills vs New England Patriots

Winner: Buffalo Bills — Josh Allen gets revenge for years of heartbreak and earns another shot at the Super Bowl.

NFC Playoff Picture

1. Philadelphia Eagles (6-2)

Philadelphia sits atop the NFC again thanks to balance on both sides of the ball. Their +23 differential doesn’t scream dominance, but their clutch performances do.

2. Seattle Seahawks (6-2)

The Seahawks’ offense (231 PF) is firing behind Geno Smith, and their defense has allowed only 150 points – the fewest in the NFC. A legitimate Super Bowl threat.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-2)

Baker Mayfield’s squad continues to surprise with efficient play and strong road record (4-1). Tampa is scrappy and dangerous.

4. Green Bay Packers (5-2-1)

Jordan Love is proving himself with poise and efficiency. The Packers lead the NFC North but have work to do to secure home-field advantage.

Wild Cards:

5. LA Rams (6-2) – The Rams’ +82 differential is tops in the NFC. Stafford and McVay have this team playing championship-caliber football again.

6. San Francisco 49ers (6-3) – Brock Purdy and the 49ers remain battle-tested and well-coached.

7. Detroit Lions (5-3) – Despite a recent stumble, their offensive firepower keeps them in playoff position.

NFC Wild Card Round (Projected Matchups)

(2) Seahawks vs (7) Lions – Seahawks advance behind dominant defense.

(3) Buccaneers vs (6) 49ers – 49ers upset Tampa with physical play.

(4) Packers vs (5) Rams – Rams win; Stafford shines in Green Bay return.

NFC Divisional Round:

(1) Eagles vs (6) 49ers – 49ers avenge last year’s NFC title loss.

(2) Seahawks vs (5) Rams – Rams win another road upset in divisional thriller.

NFC Championship:

San Francisco 49ers vs LA Rams

Winner: LA Rams – Stafford outduels Purdy in a West Coast classic.

Super Bowl LIX Prediction (2025 Season)

Buffalo Bills vs LA Rams

Two teams built on elite quarterback play and creative coaching collide in New Orleans.

Key Matchup: Josh Allen vs Aaron Donald

Edge: Bills’ passing attack vs Rams’ young secondary

Predicted Winner: Buffalo Bills (31–27 over Rams)

Super Bowl MVP: Josh Allen

Summary

  • AFC Champion: Buffalo Bills
  • NFC Champion: LA Rams
  • Super Bowl LIX Winner: Buffalo Bills
  • Dark Horses: Denver Broncos, Seattle Seahawks
  • Biggest Surprise: New England Patriots’ resurgence
  • Teams on the Rise: Detroit Lions, LA Chargers
  • Teams in Trouble: Cincinnati Bengals, Miami Dolphins, New Orleans Saints

If the playoffs started today, expect a mix of veteran leadership and young quarterbacks defining the 2025 postseason – with Buffalo finally lifting the Lombardi Trophy.