NFC Seeding Race Shifts as Rams Extend Streak: 2026 NFL Playoff Picture and Bracket After Week 9
AFC wild-card race tightens
The top six teams in the AFC ended Week 9 with no more than two losses, leaving those places relatively settled. The battle for the last wild-card spot is less clear.
The Patriots currently hold that position, while the Browns are level with them at 5-4. The Raiders and Ravens are one game behind.
NFC North reshapes the seeds
All four NFC North teams remain in contention, with the Bears set to enter Week 10 in first place. Minnesota’s defeat to Buffalo knocked the Vikings from the division lead and dropped them to the No. 6 seed.
Rams rise as Seattle slides
Seattle has lost four of its past six games, while Los Angeles has won three in a row. The Rams’ run comes as the team faces an injury concern at wide receiver.
Los Angeles lost Puka Nacua to a knee injury. In Sunday’s win over Washington, Myles Garrett returned and recorded three sacks.
Key points
- The Patriots hold the AFC’s final wild-card spot at 5-4, tied with the Browns.
- The Raiders and Ravens are one game behind the Patriots and Browns.
- The Bears lead the NFC North entering Week 10; Detroit is No. 5 and Minnesota No. 6.
- The Rams have won three straight, while Seattle has dropped four of its last six.