Super Bowl Contenders: Analyzing NFL Teams Without a Championship

As it stands, twenty NFL franchises have secured at least one Super Bowl victory. This figure has remained unchanged since the Philadelphia Eagles joined this exclusive group at the conclusion of the 2017 season. However, according to the latest odds from DraftKings, three of the top ten favorites for the Super Bowl in 2025 belong to teams that have yet to lift the Vince Lombardi Trophy. This article will examine those three teams, along with the other nine franchises still seeking their first championship, to assess their chances of breaking through in the upcoming season.
The Buffalo Bills hold the highest Super Bowl odds among these teams. They have established themselves as a formidable force in the AFC East, clinching the division title with at least 11 wins for five consecutive seasons. Last year, the Bills narrowly missed out on a Super Bowl appearance. With the Kansas City Chiefs showing signs of vulnerability and the Baltimore Ravens underwhelming in recent playoff outings, the path to the championship appears somewhat clearer for a well-rounded team that boasts the fifth-easiest schedule in the league, as per Sharp Football Analysis. The likelihood of the Bills capturing their first Super Bowl is estimated at 20%.
Next are the Cincinnati Bengals, whose on-field performance greatly surpasses their recent 9-8 records. With the sixth-highest-scoring offense last season, quarterback Joe Burrow's performance garnered MVP consideration—had the Bengals made the playoffs. Additionally, this team has demonstrated resilience in recent years, coming close to winning the Super Bowl in 2021 and almost defeating the Chiefs in the 2022 AFC title game. While they contend with division rivals like the Ravens and must navigate a competitive conference, the Bengals' elite talent in pivotal positions and experience in high-pressure situations give them a solid chance to finally secure a Super Bowl victory this year. Their likelihood stands at 8%.
The Detroit Lions had an impressive 2024 season, finishing with the best record (15-2) in the NFC, along with commendable metrics in scoring margin and DVOA. With a healthy Aidan Hutchinson expected to contribute in 2025, expectations are high for this team. However, they will face intense competition from the NFC North, which boasts the league's third-most challenging schedule. The Lions may suffer from division rivalry and could come up against the defending champion Eagles during their playoff quest. Despite their abundance of talent, the Lions faltered in decisive moments last year, making it difficult to be overly optimistic about their chances. Their likelihood of winning the Super Bowl is assessed at 6%.
The Los Angeles Chargers exhibit considerable potential, particularly with Jim Harbaugh coaching. Quarterback Justin Herbert experienced a career-best season last year, supported by the league's top-ranked scoring defense, which guided the Chargers to 11 wins. If they can build on this success in 2025, their ascent could disrupt the Chiefs' dominance in the AFC West. However, last season's favorable schedule has raised questions about the Chargers' ability to replicate their success next year, especially if they face increased pressure from division rivals like the Broncos, who are also on an upward trajectory. While the future is uncertain, the likelihood of the Chargers capturing the Super Bowl is estimated at 3%.
C.J. Stroud, the quarterback for the Houston Texans, could play a critical role in determining the team's Super Bowl viability should he return to the impressive form exhibited during his rookie season in 2023. However, challenges loom, particularly as Stroud struggled last year behind a lackluster offensive line. While the Texans have made strides to bolster this unit, it remains uncertain whether these changes will effectively benefit the offense. Given their talent level, the Texans certainly possess Super Bowl potential, but the alignment of multiple factors in a tough AFC playoff landscape would be necessary for such a feat. Their likelihood is assessed at 2%.
The Jacksonville Jaguars faced obstacles in the 2024 season but hold the potential to rebound, having posted winning records in 2022 and 2023. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence has the capability to lead the team to success, especially with promising new additions such as No. 2 overall pick Travis Hunter joining Brian Thomas Jr. in the receiving corps. With a favorable schedule in a less competitive division, combined with a revamped coaching staff, the Jaguars may find themselves in a good position for a resurgence. However, considering their disappointing performance in the previous season, the prospects of winning the Super Bowl seem remote, leading to a likelihood assessment of 2%.
In Arizona, the dynamic duo of Kyler Murray and Marvin Harrison Jr. could potentially transform the Cardinals’ fortunes. Both possess the talent to command the field, and their collaboration may yield exciting results for a franchise currently in rebuilding mode. The NFC West has also become more accessible, adding further intrigue to their prospects. Nevertheless, like the Texans and Jaguars, the Cardinals are acknowledged as a work in progress. Their likelihood of making a championship run is assessed at 2%.
Though J.J. McCarthy is not technically a rookie, he essentially enters the 2025 season with no game experience, having missed the entire previous season due to a knee injury. This significant gap could temper expectations for a Vikings squad that has a solid supporting cast. However, the challenges posed by a strong division and competitive schedule might hinder their progression towards a Super Bowl title. While McCarthy has shown promise, winning a championship appears more likely to be a pursuit for 2026. Their likelihood remains at 2%.
In Atlanta, Michael Penix Jr. is navigating a similarly uncertain landscape. He brings notable talent, supported by a robust offensive line and skilled position players. The Falcons' defense shows signs of improvement, but it does not yet reach the level of the Vikings. Despite a manageable schedule within an open division, doubts linger regarding Penix’s ability to maximize his potential in 2025. The Super Bowl does not seem within immediate reach, but playoff aspirations could certainly be viable. Their likelihood stands at 1%.
The Carolina Panthers represent another team in a rebuilding phase, presently seeking a franchise quarterback in Bryce Young. The 2023 No. 1 overall pick has yet to fully assert himself as a reliable starter, while the defense permitted the highest average points per game last season. Progress appears distant for the Panthers, and significant improvements would be necessary before they can be considered contenders. Their likelihood is assessed at less than 1%.
Similarly, the Tennessee Titans find themselves in a rebuilding situation as they introduce rookie No. 1 overall pick Cam Ward into the fold. Although Ward brings hope, the Titans were last seen limping through a 14-loss campaign. Presently, the objective is to attain respectability, with later aspirations aimed towards contention in 2026 or 2027. Their likelihood is less than 1%.
Finally, the Cleveland Browns are poised to extend their streak of seasons without a championship in the Super Bowl era. Having concluded last year with a dismal 3-14 record—the worst in the league—they continue to grapple with unresolved quarterback issues. Competing in one of the league’s most formidable divisions, the Browns face significant obstacles that diminish any immediate prospects for a Super Bowl run. Their likelihood is assessed at less than 1%.








