As the 2025 NFL season approaches, teams and fans alike are buzzing with anticipation about which franchises have the best chance of making a deep playoff run and potentially securing the coveted Super Bowl 60 title. From emerging dark horses to perennial powerhouses, each team’s journey to this ultimate goal is guided by strategic roster moves, key player performances, and the sheer will to succeed on the grandest stage. In this article, we explore the top ten contenders for the 2026 Super Bowl, analyzing their strengths, challenges, and what makes them stand out in the competitive landscape of professional football.


10. Los Angeles Chargers

Jan 11, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) looks to pass during the second quarter against the Houston Texans in an AFC wild card game at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

The Chargers are dark horse contenders at +3200 odds. Under Jim Harbaugh’s leadership, they made the playoffs in 2024 but fell to the Texans. With Justin Herbert at the helm and promising rookies like Ladd McConkey, the team aims to strengthen both offense and defense for a deeper playoff run in 2025.


9. Green Bay Packers

Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) throws a pass to Green Bay Packers wide receiver Romeo Doubs (87) during the first quarter of their game Sunday, September 29, 2024 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Packers are emerging as strong contenders for Super Bowl 60, with odds of +1900. Led by quarterback Jordan Love, who won a playoff game last season, Green Bay’s young roster is poised for success. The team’s improved run defense and stability along the offensive line provide a solid foundation for their championship aspirations.


8. Cincinnati Bengals

Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow celebrates a Week 17 overtime win over the Denver Broncos that kept Cincinnati’s slim playoff hopes alive. Burrow threw for 412 yards and three touchdowns in the game and also added a rushing score.

The Bengals, at +2000 odds, are poised for a bounce-back season in 2025. With Joe Burrow’s MVP-caliber performance and Ja’Marr Chase’s explosive receiving, Cincinnati’s offense remains elite. However, their defense needs significant improvement, ranking 25th in points allowed per game. If they address defensive issues, the Bengals could be serious contenders.


7. Washington Commanders

Jan 26, 2025; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) celebrates after a play against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second half in the NFC Championship game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

The Commanders are riding high after their surprising 2024 playoff run. With quarterback Jayden Daniels entering his second year and a strong defense, Washington is poised to contend. Their +1700 odds reflect their potential, but they’ll need to address key free agency decisions to maintain their momentum.


6. San Francisco 49ers

Dec 30, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) during the game against the Detroit Lions at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

The 49ers hold the 6th best odds (+1300) to win Super Bowl LX at their home stadium, Levi’s Stadium, in 2026. Despite a disappointing 6-11 record in 2024, the team has made strategic roster moves, including signing key players like Russell Gage and Isaiah Hodgins to future contracts. With a solid core and home-field advantage, the 49ers remain strong contenders.


5. Detroit Lions

Jan 18, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) throws pass during the second quarter against the Washington Commanders in a 2025 NFC divisional round game at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images

The Lions are emerging as strong contenders, with odds of +900 to win Super Bowl 60. Despite a challenging 2024-25 season marred by injuries, Detroit’s potential remains high. With key players like Aidan Hutchinson returning and a favorable NFC North outlook, the Lions are attracting significant betting interest, accounting for 13.5% of all Super Bowl 60 futures bets.


4. Baltimore Ravens

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson gets off a pass during first half action during the Buffalo Bills divisional game against the Baltimore Ravens at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park on Jan. 19, 2025. Tina MacIntyre-Yee/Democrat and Chronicle-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Ravens (+675) are strong contenders for Super Bowl 60, led by dynamic quarterback Lamar Jackson. With a potent offense and stout defense, Baltimore has consistently been a playoff threat. Their innovative schemes and talented roster make them a formidable force in the AFC, positioning them as top favorites for the 2026 championship.


3. Buffalo Bills

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen signals they are going for the two-point conversion during the second half of the Buffalo Bills wild card game against the Denver Broncos at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park on Jan. 12, 2025. Smiling about the touchdown is Buffalo Bills fullback Reggie Gilliam. Tina MacIntyre-Yee/Democrat and Chronicle / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Despite falling short in recent playoffs, the Bills remain strong contenders for Super Bowl 60. Led by league MVP quarterback Josh Allen, Buffalo boasts a potent offense and solid defense. With key players like Khalil Shakir emerging and potential offseason acquisitions, the Bills are poised to make another deep playoff run.


2. Kansas City Chiefs

Feb 9, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) reacts in the fourth quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX at Ceasars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Despite their Super Bowl LIX loss, the Chiefs remain top contenders at +700 odds. With Patrick Mahomes at the helm and a track record of seven consecutive AFC Championship appearances, Kansas City is poised for another strong season. The team’s resilience and consistent performance make them a perennial favorite to clinch the Lombardi Trophy.


1. Philadelphia Eagles

Feb 9, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) holds the Vince Lombardi Trophy as Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni looks on after defeating the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX at Ceasars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The reigning Super Bowl champions are the early favorites to repeat in 2026. Led by MVP quarterback Jalen Hurts and a dominant defense, the Eagles have a young core poised for sustained success. With key free agents like Josh Sweat to re-sign, GM Howie Roseman faces tough decisions to keep this powerhouse intact.

Conclusion

Feb 9, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) shakes hands with Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) after Super Bowl LIX at Ceasars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The countdown to Super Bowl 60 is filled with intrigue and excitement as each of these 10 teams prepares to leave their mark on the 2025 season. From the resilient Philadelphia Eagles aiming to defend their championship title, to the hungry Kansas City Chiefs and daring underdogs like the Los Angeles Chargers, the journey to the top is both challenging and exhilarating. As rosters solidify and tactics evolve, fans can look forward to an action-packed season where every game, every play, and every moment holds the potential to reshape the destiny of these formidable contenders. Only time will tell which of these teams will rise to the occasion and earn the right to hoist the Lombardi Trophy in 2026.