TheNFL playoff picturemight actually see its first pieces fall into place inWeek 15.
Through early December, the league found more clarity from the bottom tier of teams – with nine already eliminated from postseason contention – than at the top. That could change starting Dec. 14, however, as three teams – theNew England Patriots,Denver BroncosandLos Angeles Rams– could become the first to seal playoff berths. While the latter two can't yet wrap up their respective divisions, the Patriots could end theBuffalo Bills' five-year reign atop the AFC East if they're able to defeat Josh Allen and Co. at home.
Here's what's on the table for all three teams and how they could get there:
Denver Broncosplayoff clinching scenarios in Week 15
Broncos clinch a playoff berth with:
Broncos win
Broncos tie and Chargers loss
Broncos tie and Jaguars loss
Broncos tie and Texans loss or tie
Broncos tie and Colts loss or tie
Texans loss or tie and Colts loss or tie, as long as both games don't end in a tie
New England Patriots playoff clinching scenarios in Week 15
Patriots clinch AFC east with:
Patriots win
Patriots clinch playoff berth with:
Patriots win
Patriots tie and Chargers loss
Patriots tie and Texans loss or tie
Patriots tie and Colts loss or tie
Patriots tie and Jaguars loss
Texans loss or tie and Colts loss or tie, as long as both games don't end in a tie
Los Angeles Ramsplayoff clinching scenarios Week 15
Rams clinch playoff berth with:
Rams win
Week 1: Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa (18) makes a catch for a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The play was originally ruled an incomplete pass, but the call was overturned. Despite TeSlaa's effort, the Packers won the game 27-13." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Best images of the 2025 NFL season
Week 1: Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa (18)makes a catch for a touchdownagainst the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The play was originally ruled an incomplete pass, but the call was overturned. Despite TeSlaa's effort, the Packers won the game 27-13.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:NFL playoff scenarios Week 15: Broncos, Patriots, Rams can clinch
