Sports

NFL playoff-clinching scenarios: Which teams can secure a berth in Week 16?

In Week 16, nine NFL teams have the chance to clinch a playoff berth. The Broncos can also lock up the AFC's No. 1 seed.

Published 5 months ago on Dec 18th 2025, 6:00 am

By Web Desk

After Week 15 of the 2025 NFL regular season, the Rams and Broncos are officially in the playoffs. Three more teams also were eliminated from playoff contention, including the Chiefs for the first time since 2014.

So what's at stake in Week 16? Apparently, a lot. Four AFC teams and five NFC teams have a chance to secure a postseason spot this week. Denver could also lock up the AFC's No. 1 seed if four contests go a certain way.

Let's take a look at Week 16 clinching scenarios for 10 teams.

More NFL playoff race coverage:
Projecting the final seeding
FPI ratings for every team
Projected 2026 draft order

The matchup: at Cleveland on Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS

How the Bills can clinch a playoff berth:

The matchup: vs. Jacksonville on Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET, Fox

How the Broncos can clinch the AFC West:

How the Broncos can clinch the No. 1 seed and home-field advantage in the AFC:

The matchup: at Denver on Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET, Fox

How the Jaguars can clinch a playoff berth:

The matchup: at Dallas on Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, Fox

How the Chargers can clinch a playoff berth:

The matchup: at Baltimore on Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET, NBC/Peacock

How the Patriots can clinch a playoff berth:

The matchup: vs. Green Bay on Saturday, 8:20 p.m. ET, Fox

How the Bears can clinch a playoff berth:

The matchup: at Chicago on Saturday, 8:20 p.m. ET, Fox

How the Packers can clinch a playoff berth:

The matchup: at Washington on Saturday, 5 p.m. ET, Fox

How the Eagles can clinch the NFC East:

The matchup: at Indianapolis on Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET, ABC/ESPN

How the 49ers can clinch a playoff berth:

The matchup: at Los Angeles Rams on Thursday, 8:15 p.m. ET, Prime Video

How the Seahawks can clinch a playoff berth: