Buried in that chaff, however, are a few stalks of gridiron wheat that can sustain us through to the Wild Card round of the 2026 NFL Playoffs. The first week of the new calendar year is set to deliver three different division title games -- including one that will determine the NFC's top seed and recipient of a roster-rejuvenating bye.

The 2025 NFL playoff bracket will be finalized in Week 18. Here's a look at the division winners and wild cards as the playoff picture takes shape.