NFL

NFL playoff scenario: If these three teams win they’re in the postseason

Here’s how three teams can clinch playoff berths this weekend. Nine others are already eliminated as the postseason picture heats up.

David Butler II

Roddy Cons

Scottish sports journalist and content creator. After running his own soccer-related projects, in 2022 he joined Diario AS, where he mainly reports on the biggest news from around Europe’s leading soccer clubs, Liga MX and MLS, and covers live games in a not-too-serious tone. Likes to mix things up by dipping into the world of American sports.

Update: Dec 10th, 2025 07:48 EST

With only four weeks of the NFL regular season remaining, the race to reach the playoffs is red hot. No team has clinched a postseason spot heading into Week 15, although three franchises can do just that over the next few days and secure a stress-free stretch before the playoffs begin in January.

Broncos and Patriots can punch postseason tickets

In the AFC, the Denver Broncos and the New England Patriots sit at 11-2, both riding 10-game winning streaks. If those streaks reach 11 in Week 15, each team will clinch a postseason berth.

Playoff clinching scenarios! The #Broncos, #Patriots, and #Rams are win and in. pic.twitter.com/DaBxGbkuLJ
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 9, 2025

The Broncos face the Green Bay Packers (9-3-1) on Sunday, December 14, and know a win will extend their season into 2026. The Patriots will not only secure a playoff spot with a victory over the Buffalo Bills (9-4) on Sunday, but can also clinch the AFC East.

What if they tie?

A tie would also be enough for both teams if all the following happen:

The Los Angeles Chargers lose to the Kansas City Chiefs or
The Jacksonville Jaguars lose to the New York Jets or
The Houston Texans fail to beat the Arizona Cardinals or
The Indianapolis Colts fail to beat the Seattle Seahawks

Broncos and Patriots could even survive a loss

Even a defeat would not eliminate the Broncos or Patriots, as long as the Texans and the Colts fail to win, and at least one of them loses.

Rams can clinch playoffs in the NFC

Over in the NFC, the Los Angeles Rams (10-3) will secure a postseason place if they defeat the Detroit Lions (8-5) on Sunday. The Californians, however, will have to wait at least a week if they tie or lose.

Who is already out?

Heading into Week 15, nine teams are already eliminated:

AFC: New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, Las Vegas Raiders, Tennessee Titans

NFC: Atlanta Falcons, Arizona Cardinals, New Orleans Saints, Washington Commanders, New York Giants.