Week 16 Playoff Scenarios for the 2025 NFL Season Explained

The NFL’s Week 16 playoff scenarios for the 2025 season provide crucial insights for teams striving for postseason success. The Denver Broncos and several other franchises are poised for significant outcomes this week. Here’s an overview of the key playoff scenarios based on the upcoming matchups.
Denver Broncos Playoff Scenarios
The Denver Broncos, currently leading with a 12-2 record, face the Jacksonville Jaguars, who sit at 10-4, on Sunday at 4:05 p.m. ET. With a victory, Denver can secure:
- The AFC West division title
- The No. 1 seed in the AFC
- A first-round bye and home-field advantage
The potential outcomes for the Broncos to clinch these advantages include:
- A Broncos win, coupled with a loss or tie by the Los Angeles Chargers
- A loss or tie by both the New England Patriots and Buffalo Bills
Buffalo Bills’ Path to the Playoffs
The Buffalo Bills, holding a record of 10-4, will face the Cleveland Browns, who are struggling at 3-11, on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET. To secure a playoff berth, Buffalo must achieve:
- A win against Cleveland accompanied by a loss or tie from the Indianapolis Colts or Houston Texans
- A tie while ensuring both the Colts and Texans lose
New England Patriots Scenario
The New England Patriots, boasting an 11-3 record, will clash with the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday night at 8:20 p.m. ET. To clinch their playoff position, the Patriots can either:
- Win or tie against the Ravens
- Benefit from losses or ties by the Colts and Texans
Jacksonville Jaguars’ Opportunity
The Jacksonville Jaguars can secure their playoff spot by defeating the Denver Broncos. If they win, their scenarios include:
- Indy Colts losing or tying
- Houston Texans losing or tying
- Alternatively, they can achieve a tie while the Colts lose
Los Angeles Chargers Playoff Chances
The Los Angeles Chargers, with a 10-4 record, will meet the Dallas Cowboys (6-7-1) on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET. For the Chargers to clinch a playoff berth, they need to:
- Secure a win while ensuring the Colts either lose or tie
- Win alongside a loss from the Texans
- Claim a tie while hoping for a Colts loss
Conclusion
As teams prepare for this pivotal week, the outcomes will significantly impact their postseason positioning. Fans can watch closely as the scenarios unfold, determining who will emerge victorious and secure a spot in the playoffs.




