Three Sneaky NFC Championship Contenders in 2024 - NFL Season Outlook and Predictions

Which NFC teams are sneaky championship contenders for the 2024 season? Lance Fernandez looks at three teams that have the potential to make a surprising run this coming season.

Every year presents a new opportunity for NFL teams to compete. Therefore, their fate in the 2024 season depends on whether they sustain their competitiveness, finish with an inferior record, or improve from last year’s performance.

In the National Football Conference, 15 teams will try to dethrone the San Francisco 49ers for the right to play in Super Bowl LIX. Some top contenders, like the Philadelphia Eagles, Detroit Lions, and Dallas Cowboys, could have a shot at playing in the league’s grandest stage.

However, some NFC teams flying under the radar might pull off grand surprises once the season commences. These teams may not be considered favorites to survive the NFC gauntlet, but they can make a deep playoff run.

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Atlanta Falcons

Y’all showed out today! pic.twitter.com/HolXXTjRaJ

— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) July 28, 2024

The Falcons missed last year’s playoffs after losing four of their last five regular-season games. A better finish would have landed them their first postseason appearance since 2017.

However, Kirk Cousins’ arrival boosts their ability to compete in their conference, particularly in the NFC South. His experience should help Drake London, Rondale Moore, Darnell Mooney, and Kyle Pitts become better players.

A steady quarterback like Cousins will also help running back Bijan Robinson have a monster season aided by an increase in receiving yards. With the competition in their division remaining wide open, the Falcons have a shot at shocking their foes.

Seattle Seahawks

Feels so good to be back.#GoHawks x @BoeingWA pic.twitter.com/oFt1venaiG

— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) July 25, 2024

While the Seahawks came up short of a playoff berth, they won three of their last four games to finish the 2023 regular season. Seattle has the roster to sustain that momentum, especially with new head coach Mike Macdonald taking over.

The Seahawks have a sneaky good defense, especially in the defensive secondary with Julian Love, Tariq Woolen, and Devon Witherspoon. Outside linebacker Boye Mafe had nine sacks last year, while defensive tackle Jarran Reed added seven.

Seattle’s defense is good enough to stop opponents, but they also have an offense that can score points. Geno Smith has a talented unit around him, led by wide receivers DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who is poised for a breakout season. Kenneth Walker III, Zach Charbonnet, and Kenny McIntosh make their ground game challenging to contain.

Chicago Bears

Pads are poppin' 💥 pic.twitter.com/vLznRJy8B4

— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) July 28, 2024

Finishing with a 7-10 record last year is commendable, considering they started the season at 0-4. General manager Ryan Poles has done a masterful job building the Bears’ roster this year. If everything falls according to plan, they’ll be better than a 7-10 team.

The Bears’ revamped offense includes acquiring D'Andre Swift and Keenan Allen to join Cole Kmet and DJ Moore. They’ve also selected wide receiver Rome Odunze, who could make a splash in his rookie season. Likewise, they have bright spots on defense, like Montez Sweat, Tremaine Edmunds, and Jaylon Johnson.

However, Caleb Williams’ output will heavily dictate their fate in 2024. He must play like a Heisman Trophy winner to help deliver Chicago’s first playoff victory since 2010. Barring any injury, the Bears can even be a dark horse squad to reach the NFC Championship Game.