The Top Eight Super Bowl Contenders Right Now: Eagles, Lions, and Chiefs Lead the Pack

By Bucky Brooks | NFL.com Analyst

As the Philadelphia Eagles bask in their Super Bowl LIX victory, the football world is already looking ahead to the teams best positioned to compete for the championship in the 2025 season. With front offices preparing their strategies for Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara, California, it’s never too soon to assess which franchises have the strongest championship windows.

Here are the top eight teams poised to make a serious Super Bowl run.

1. Philadelphia Eagles (14-3, 2024 Season)

The Eagles’ front office, led by Howie Roseman, has assembled a powerhouse roster capable of competing for championships for years to come. With elite talent at key positions and a mix of veteran leadership and promising young players, Philadelphia remains a dominant force.

Quarterback Jalen Hurts, along with running back Saquon Barkley, will lead an explosive offense featuring standout receivers A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and tight end Dallas Goedert. Meanwhile, the offensive line, anchored by Lane Johnson, Jordan Mailata, and Landon Dickerson, continues to be one of the best in the league.

On defense, Jalen Carter has emerged as a star and could be in the running for Defensive Player of the Year. He’s supported by impact players like Nolan Smith and Jordan Davis. With a deep and talented secondary featuring Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, and C.J. Gardner-Johnson, the Eagles remain one of the league’s top contenders.

2. Detroit Lions (15-2, 2024 Season)

Despite losing offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, the Lions remain a top-tier Super Bowl contender. Under the leadership of general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell, Detroit has built a resilient and talented roster.

Jared Goff is surrounded by offensive weapons like Jahmyr Gibbs, David Montgomery, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Sam LaPorta, while the offensive line—led by Penei Sewell and Frank Ragnow—dominates in the trenches.

Defensively, a healthy and rejuvenated unit under new coordinator Kelvin Sheppard could give the Lions an edge in the NFC. If Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill return to full strength, Detroit will be a nightmare matchup for opponents.

3. Kansas City Chiefs (15-2, 2024 Season)

Kansas City may have fallen short in Super Bowl LIX, but the Chiefs have been the NFL’s most dominant franchise over the past six seasons. With five Super Bowl appearances and three titles, they remain a premier contender.

Head coach Andy Reid and quarterback Patrick Mahomes are determined to rebound from last season’s disappointment. While the Chiefs must address offensive line concerns and potentially replace Travis Kelce, Mahomes ensures that the offense remains competitive.

On defense, key players like Chris Jones and Trent McDuffie return, along with contributors like George Karlaftis, Leo Chenal, and Drue Tranquill. However, tough decisions loom regarding Nick Bolton and Justin Reid. Despite these challenges, Kansas City’s experience and coaching give them a strong chance at another title.

4. Baltimore Ravens (12-5, 2024 Season)

The Ravens boast one of the NFL’s most talented rosters but have struggled to reach the Super Bowl. However, with Lamar Jackson leading an offense featuring Derrick Henry, Zay Flowers, Mark Andrews, and Isaiah Likely, Baltimore remains a dangerous team.

The Ravens’ offensive versatility allows them to dominate both through the air and on the ground. While questions remain on the left side of the offensive line, their core playmakers are primed for another strong season.

On defense, Zach Orr’s unit is expected to take another step forward, with Kyle Hamilton, Roquan Smith, Marlon Humphrey, and Nnamdi Madubuike forming a formidable core. While the team may need additional young talent, Baltimore’s foundation is solid enough to challenge for a title.

5. Green Bay Packers (11-6, 2024 Season)

As the youngest team in the NFL, the Packers are built for sustained success. Their draft-and-develop approach has produced a talented roster capable of competing for years.

Quarterback Jordan Love is on the verge of stardom, leading an offense featuring running back Josh Jacobs, a deep group of pass catchers, and a strong offensive line. While a true No. 1 wide receiver could elevate the unit, the Packers have been effective with a committee approach.

Defensively, Green Bay boasts a collection of former first-round picks, including Rashan Gary, Kenny Clark, Quay Walker, and Jaire Alexander. While Alexander’s future is uncertain and Eric Stokes is set for free agency, the Packers’ ability to develop young talent keeps them in the championship conversation.

6. Los Angeles Chargers (11-6, 2024 Season)

Jim Harbaugh’s first season as head coach saw the Chargers earn a playoff berth, and they are poised for further success. The team thrived with a physical, old-school approach, and if they can add more talent, their Super Bowl aspirations will only grow.

Upgrading the wide receiver corps to support Justin Herbert is a top priority, as is determining the future of running back J.K. Dobbins. With improvements in the passing game, the Chargers’ offense could become far more dangerous.

Defensively, key decisions loom over pass rushers Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa, while the secondary could see changes with multiple free agents. If the Chargers address these areas, Harbaugh’s squad could emerge as a true AFC contender.

These six teams, along with a couple of others rounding out the top eight, have the strongest Super Bowl windows in the NFL right now. With the right offseason moves, they could be hoisting the Lombardi Trophy next year.