The question of what’s the best team in the NFL is a hotly debated topic, as up-and-coming teams are looking to claim their place at the top of the list. In order to accurately evaluate who is the best team in the NFL, both sides of the ball must be taken into account. It is easy to look at a star quarterback and give a team an immediate edge as one of the best NFL teams, but their defensive prowess is just as important. Here is a list of the top 10 NFL teams as of now.
10. Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys have been contenders for the last decade, but they have been unable to translate their regular season success into playoff victories. The Cowboys managed to deal with their off-field issues, re-signing Ceedee Lamb and making progress with Dak Prescott, but this team has too many question marks to be the best NFL team. They continue to fall short in the postseason, limiting their growth as a franchise.
9. Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins had the league’s best offense last season, but it was paired with a woeful defense, giving up the third most points in the AFC. Tua Tagovailoa and Tyreek Hill are the most effective quarterback and receiver combination in the league, and will likely be filling up the statsheet once again this year. The ceiling for this team all comes down to the defense. They prioritized defense in the draft, and signed Anthony Weaver as the defensive coordinator in the offseason. Weaver will help shore up a weak defense, and if the Dolphins can even tread water on the defensive side of the ball, their offense will carry them to be one of the best teams in the NFL.
8. Buffalo Bills
With Josh Allen at quarterback, the Bills will always be in contention for the title of best team in the NFL. The dual-threat passer can transform an otherwise lackluster offense into legitimate threats. The Bills had a solid defense heading into last season, but a string of injuries in the middle of the field capped their progress in the postseason. Outside of Matt Milano, Buffalo has their starters back to full health and will be looking to take the next step in the 2024 season.
7. Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals got off to a hot start last season, but when quarterback Joe Burrow went down with injury, their Super Bowl window immediately closed. The Bengals could certainly be the best NFL team, and they could also slide into the bottom half by the end of the 2024 season. Despite a Super Bowl appearance, Joe Burrow still has plenty to prove, and will be desperate to take the Bengals on a deep playoff run. Cincinnati has a balanced offensive unit, and a strong defensive line. There are question marks in their secondary, but it’s hard to find many flaws with the Bengals heading into the season with an invigorated Joe Burrow.
6. Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles are looking to reclaim their throne atop the NFC East, after they started the year 10-1 last season, before a 1-5 finish saw the Dallas Cowboys leapfrog them. Jalen Hurts is one of the best quarterbacks in the league, and he is well protected behind a stellar offensive line. Jason Kelce has retired, but the Eagles are still a force to be reckoned with. The addition of Saquon Barkley at running back will make an already well rounded offense that much better, and it would surprise nobody to see the Eagles make a deep playoff run.
5. Detroit Lions
The Lions shocked the world by winning the NFC North, then getting so close to the Super Bowl after blowing their lead in the NFC Championship. The Lions have the grit to gut out wins they don’t expect, and their plethora of offensive weapons elevates the play of quarterback Jared Goff. There aren’t too many holes in this lineup, but they also lack the bonafide superstars needed to consistently finish on top.
4. Houston Texans
As one of the most exciting teams in the 2024 NFL season, the Texans are sure to compete for the title of best team in the NFL. CJ Stroud is in his sophomore season, and the outstanding quarterback was in contention for the MVP award in his rookie year. He has a trio of top-tire receivers, as Tank Dell, Nico Collins, and new arrival Stefon Diggs could all be WR1s on other teams. They traded away their future to develop their defensive talent, and other than a lack of playoff experience, there is no limit to how far Houston can go.
3. Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens have been at the top of the AFC for the last decade, as their elite defensive and electric Lamar Jackson makes them the favorites against almost any NFL team. The Ravens have a well-rounded, experienced defense, who thrives in slowing down the run. Their ability to clog up the middle of the field has made them one of the most consistent, and best teams in the NFL. The health issues for Lamar Jackson is always a concern, but no one would argue that a fully healthy Ravens team is the best NFL team.
2. San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers have the most balanced offense in the league, with top players in every position. It starts with Pro Bowl Trent Williams at left tackle, protecting Brock Purdy’s blind spot. Christian McCaffrey is the league’s best running back, with wideouts Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel forming the best tandem in the league. On defense, the 49ers were the only NFC team to allow less than 300 points last year, as they can stop both the run and the pass. While the 49ers are the best team on paper, the Chiefs make up for it with their ability to step up when it counts.
1. Kansas City Chiefs
Among the best NFL teams, the Kansas City Chiefs top the list. Patrick Mahomes continues to defy what appears to be possible on a football field, and can elevate mediocre receivers into bonafide NFL superstars. The Chiefs defense can also not be forgotten, as they were one of three teams to allow less than 300 points last season. If the Chiefs are still motivated to continue their dynasty, they can absolutely become the first three-time Super Bowl champions.
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