2025 NFL Playoff Bracket and Schedule Updated Post-Week 17
The NFL playoff picture has taken shape as teams brace for the concluding Week 18, with 12 of the 14 playoff spots already filled. This final week will determine the remaining two spots and the seeds for the playoffs.
Current Standings in the AFC and NFC
The AFC boasts several teams that have already clinched playoff berths:
- Denver Broncos (13-3)*
- New England Patriots (13-3)*
- Jacksonville Jaguars (12-4)*
- Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7)
- Houston Texans (11-5)*
- Los Angeles Chargers (11-5)*
- Buffalo Bills (11-5)*
*Clinched playoffs
AFC Decisions in Week 18
The Patriots secured the AFC East title with a victory over the Jets, coupled with the Bills’ loss to the Eagles. The contest for the top seed in the AFC will unfold in Week 18 among the Broncos, Patriots, and Jaguars.
Week 18 will also be crucial for the AFC North. The Ravens’ triumph over the Packers and the Steelers’ defeat to the Browns sets up a deciding matchup between Baltimore and Pittsburgh.
Meanwhile, the Texans could emerge as the No. 5 seed in the AFC, benefiting from their head-to-head victories against the Bills and Chargers. The Jaguars can secure the AFC South title with a victory against the Titans.
NFC Standings and Final Matches
The NFC playoff picture is equally competitive:
- Seattle Seahawks (13-3)*
- Chicago Bears (11-5)*
- Philadelphia Eagles (11-5)*
- Carolina Panthers (8-8)
- San Francisco 49ers (12-4)*
- Los Angeles Rams (11-5)*
- Green Bay Packers (9-6-1)*
*Clinched playoffs
Deciding Week 18 in the NFC
The race for the NFC’s top seed is intense, with a pivotal matchup between the Seahawks and 49ers in Week 18. The winner will claim the No. 1 seed and the division title.
In the NFC South, the division will remain delayed until Week 18, with the Buccaneers scheduled to face the Panthers. Carolina lost a crucial game against Seattle, complicating their path to the title.
The Falcons also remain in contention, needing a victory over the Saints for a chance at an 8-9 record, which could lead to a three-way tie if the Buccaneers win.
Upcoming NFL Playoff Schedule
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 10-12, 2026 | Wild-card Round |
| January 17-18, 2026 | Divisional Round |
| January 25, 2026 | AFC and NFC Championship Games |
| February 8, 2026 | Super Bowl LX (Santa Clara, California) |
This year’s playoffs promise to deliver exciting matchups as teams vie for the coveted championship title.