The National Football League (NFL) stands as the pinnacle of American sports entertainment, boasting 32 teams divided equally between the American Football Conference (AFC) and the National Football Conference (NFC). Each conference is further divided into four divisions.
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What Are the NFL Divisions, How Many Are There, and Who Are the Teams in Each?
AFC East
Buffalo Bills
- Founded: 1960 (AFL), 1970 (NFL)
- Stadium: Highmark Stadium, Orchard Park, NY
- Capacity: 71,608
- Head Coach: Sean McDermott
- Notable Players: Jim Kelly, Thurman Thomas, Bruce Smith, Josh Allen, Stefon Diggs
- Team History: The Buffalo Bills, established in 1960, have a storied history, reaching the Super Bowl four consecutive times in the early ’90s. The team’s passionate fan base, known as the “Bills Mafia,” adds to the vibrant atmosphere of every game.
Miami Dolphins
- Founded: 1966 (AFL), 1970 (NFL)
- Stadium: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL
- Capacity: 64,767
- Head Coach: Mike McDaniel
- Notable Players: Dan Marino, Larry Csonka, Jason Taylor, Tua Tagovailoa, Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Raheem Mostert
- Team History: The Miami Dolphins, formed in 1966, have a legacy of success, including being the only NFL team to achieve a perfect season in 1972. Legendary quarterback Dan Marino remains an enduring figure in the team’s history.
New England Patriots
- Founded: 1959 (as Boston Patriots), 1971 (renamed New England Patriots)
- Stadium: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, MA
- Capacity: 65,878
- Head Coach: Jerod Mayo
- Notable Players: Tom Brady, Rob Gronkowski, Tedy Bruschi
- Team History: The New England Patriots, originally the Boston Patriots, underwent a name change in 1971. The franchise’s modern success is synonymous with quarterback Tom Brady, who led the team to multiple Super Bowl victories.
New York Jets
- Founded: 1959 (as New York Titans), 1963 (renamed New York Jets)
- Stadium: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ
- Capacity: 82,500
- Head Coach: Robert Saleh
- Notable Players: Joe Namath, Curtis Martin, Darrelle Revis
- Team History: The New York Jets, originally the New York Titans, captured a historic Super Bowl victory in 1969 under the leadership of quarterback Joe Namath. The team has since been a resilient presence in the league.
AFC North
Baltimore Ravens
- Founded: 1996
- Stadium: M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, MD
- Capacity: 71,008
- Head Coach: John Harbaugh
- Notable Players: Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Jonathan Ogden, Lamar Jackson, Odell Beckham Jr, Zay Flowers
- Team History: The Baltimore Ravens, established in 1996, quickly made an impact with a strong defense. The team’s legendary linebacker, Ray Lewis, became a symbol of the Ravens’ dominance on the defensive side of the ball.
Cincinnati Bengals
- Founded: 1968 (AFL), 1970 (NFL)
- Stadium: Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati, OH
- Capacity: 65,515
- Head Coach: Zac Taylor
- Notable Players: Anthony Munoz, Chad Johnson, Boomer Esiason, Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase
- Team History: The Cincinnati Bengals, formed in 1968, have seen success with iconic players like Anthony Munoz. The team’s high-powered offense, featuring talents like Chad Johnson, has kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Cleveland Browns
- Founded: 1946 (AAFC), 1950 (NFL)
- Stadium: FirstEnergy Stadium, Cleveland, OH
- Capacity: 67,431
- Head Coach: Kevin Stefanski
- Notable Players: Jim Brown, Otto Graham, Paul Warfield
- Team History: The Cleveland Browns, established in 1946, have a rich history that includes dominating the All-America Football Conference (AAFC). The team has undergone relocations and revivals, with legendary players like Jim Brown leaving an indelible legacy.
Pittsburgh Steelers
- Founded: 1933
- Stadium: Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh, PA
- Capacity: 68,400
- Head Coach: Mike Tomlin
- Notable Players: Terry Bradshaw, Franco Harris, Troy Polamalu, Ben Roethlisberger
- Team History: The Pittsburgh Steelers, founded in 1933, are one of the most successful franchises in NFL history. Known for their “Steel Curtain” defense, the team has won multiple Super Bowls and produced numerous Hall of Fame players.
AFC South
Houston Texans
- Founded: 2002
- Stadium: NRG Stadium, Houston, TX
- Capacity: 71,995
- Head Coach: DeMeco Ryans
- Notable Players: Andre Johnson, J.J. Watt, Arian Foster, CJ Stroud
- Team History: The Houston Texans, established in 2002, are a relatively young franchise. Despite their brief history, the team has seen individual brilliance from players like Andre Johnson and J.J. Watt.
Indianapolis Colts
- Founded: 1953 (as Baltimore Colts), 1984 (relocated to Indianapolis)
- Stadium: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN
- Capacity: 63,000
- Head Coach: Shane Steichen
- Notable Players: Peyton Manning, Johnny Unitas, Marvin Harrison
- Team History: The Indianapolis Colts, originally the Baltimore Colts, moved to Indianapolis in 1984. The franchise has been synonymous with elite quarterback play, with legends like Johnny Unitas and Peyton Manning leading the charge.
Jacksonville Jaguars
- Founded: 1995
- Stadium: TIAA Bank Field, Jacksonville, FL
- Capacity: 67,814
- Head Coach: Doug Pederson
- Notable Players: Mark Brunell, Maurice Jones-Drew, Tony Boselli, Trevor Lawrence
- Team History: The Jacksonville Jaguars, established in 1995, made an immediate impact by reaching the playoffs in only their second season. The team’s iconic players, like Mark Brunell and Maurice Jones-Drew, have been instrumental in shaping its identity.
Tennessee Titans
- Founded: 1960 (AFL), 1970 (NFL)
- Stadium: Nissan Stadium, Nashville, TN
- Capacity: 69,143
- Head Coach: Brian Callahan
- Notable Players: Eddie George, Steve McNair, Jevon Kearse
- Team History: The Tennessee Titans, originally the Houston Oilers, relocated to Nashville in 1997. The “Music City Miracle” in the 1999 playoffs remains one of the most iconic moments in franchise history.
AFC West
Denver Broncos
- Founded: 1960 (AFL), 1970 (NFL)
- Stadium: Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, CO
- Capacity: 76,125
- Head Coach: Sean Payton
- Notable Players: John Elway, Peyton Manning, Terrell Davis
- Team History: The Denver Broncos, established in 1960, have been a force in the AFC West. Known for their iconic quarterback lineage, including John Elway and Peyton Manning, the Broncos have celebrated multiple Super Bowl victories.
- Founded: 1960 (AFL), 1970 (NFL)
- Stadium: GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, MO
- Capacity: 76,416
- Head Coach: Andy Reid
- Notable Players: Len Dawson, Derrick Thomas, Travis Kelce, Patrick Mahomes II, Isaiah Pacheco, Rashee Rice
- Team History: The Kansas City Chiefs, founded in 1960, boast a rich history, with notable successes, including a Super Bowl victory in 1970. Current stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce continue to contribute to the team’s offensive prowess.
Las Vegas Raiders
- Founded: 1960 (AFL), 1970 (NFL)
- Stadium: Allegiant Stadium, Paradise, NV
- Capacity: 65,000
- Head Coach: Antonio Pierce
- Notable Players: Ken Stabler, Marcus Allen, Charles Woodson, Davante Adams
- Team History: The Las Vegas Raiders, originally the Oakland Raiders, have a storied past filled with iconic moments. The team’s commitment to excellence has been exemplified by legendary players like Ken Stabler and Charles Woodson.
Los Angeles Chargers
- Founded: 1960 (AFL), 1970 (NFL)
- Stadium: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA
- Capacity: 70,240
- Head Coach: Jim Harbaugh
- Notable Players: Dan Fouts, LaDainian Tomlinson, Antonio Gates, Justin Herbert, Keenan Allen, Austin Ekeler
- Team History: The Los Angeles Chargers, established in 1960, have undergone relocations from Los Angeles to San Diego and back. The team’s “Air Coryell” era, led by quarterback Dan Fouts, remains a defining chapter in Chargers history.
NFC East
- Founded: 1960
- Stadium: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX
- Capacity: 80,000
- Head Coach: Mike McCarthy
- Notable Players: Emmitt Smith, Troy Aikman, Michael Irvin, Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb
- Team History: The Dallas Cowboys, founded in 1960, are often referred to as “America’s Team.” With a rich history of success, including multiple Super Bowl victories in the 1990s, the Cowboys have become a global sports icon.
New York Giants
- Founded: 1925
- Stadium: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ
- Capacity: 82,500
- Head Coach: Brian Daboll
- Notable Players: Lawrence Taylor, Eli Manning, Michael Strahan
- Team History: The New York Giants, established in 1925, have a storied past, including multiple NFL championships and Super Bowl victories. Legendary figures like Lawrence Taylor and Eli Manning are synonymous with the Giants’ success.
Philadelphia Eagles
- Founded: 1933
- Stadium: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA
- Capacity: 69,176
- Head Coach: Nick Sirianni
- Notable Players: Reggie White, Brian Dawkins, Donovan McNabb, Jalen Hurts, Jason Kelce, AJ Brown
- Team History: The Philadelphia Eagles, founded in 1933, have a passionate fan base known as the “Eagles Nation.” The team’s first Super Bowl victory in 2018 was a historic moment for both the franchise and its devoted fans.
Washington Commanders
- Founded: 1932 (as Boston Braves), 1933 (renamed Boston Redskins), 1937 (renamed Washington Redskins), 2022 (renamed Washington Commanders)
- Stadium: FedExField, Landover, MD
- Capacity: 62,000
- Head Coach: Vacant
- Notable Players: Sammy Baugh, Darrell Green, Art Monk
- Team History: The Washington Commanders, previously known by various names, have a long and storied history. The team has undergone multiple rebrands and has been home to legendary players like Sammy Baugh and Darrell Green.
NFC North
Chicago Bears
- Founded: 1920
- Stadium: Soldier Field, Chicago, IL
- Capacity: 61,500
- Head Coach: Matt Eberflus
- Notable Players: Walter Payton, Dick Butkus, Mike Ditka
- Team History: The Chicago Bears, established in 1920, are one of the NFL’s founding franchises. With a rich history that includes iconic figures like Walter Payton and a dominating defense led by Dick Butkus, the Bears have left an indelible mark on the league.
Detroit Lions
- Founded: 1930
- Stadium: Ford Field, Detroit, MI
- Capacity: 65,000
- Head Coach: Dan Campbell
- Notable Players: Barry Sanders, Calvin Johnson, Bobby Layne
- Team History: The Detroit Lions have a storied past, with iconic players like Barry Sanders, one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. The team has undergone notable rebrands, adapting their logo and uniforms to reflect the evolving spirit of the Motor City.
Green Bay Packers
- Founded: 1921
- Stadium: Lambeau Field, Green Bay, WI
- Capacity: 81,441
- Head Coach: Matt LaFleur
- Notable Players: Brett Favre, Aaron Rodgers, Bart Starr, Jordan Love
- Team History: The Green Bay Packers, with a history dating back to 1919, are the only non-profit, community-owned major league professional sports team in the United States. The team has seen success with legendary quarterbacks like Bart Starr and, more recently, Aaron Rodgers.
Minnesota Vikings
- Founded: 1961
- Stadium: U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN
- Capacity: 66,860
- Head Coach: Kevin O’Connell
- Notable Players: Randy Moss, Adrian Peterson, Fran Tarkenton, Kirk Cousins, Justin Jefferson
- Team History: The Minnesota Vikings, founded as an expansion team in 1961, have consistently been contenders in the NFC. The franchise has a rich Norse-inspired identity, and legendary players like Fran Tarkenton and Randy Moss have left an indelible mark on the team’s legacy. The recent addition of Kirk Cousins as quarterback and the emergence of young talent like Justin Jefferson signify a promising future for the Vikings.
NFC South
Atlanta Falcons
- Founded: 1966
- Stadium: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA
- Capacity: 71,000
- Head Coach: Raheem Morris
- Notable Players: Deion Sanders, Michael Vick, Julio Jones
- Team History: The Atlanta Falcons have soared through NFL history, with iconic players like Deion Sanders electrifying the field. The team has undergone logo and uniform changes, reflecting its commitment to modernity while staying true to the spirit of Atlanta.
Carolina Panthers
- Founded: 1995
- Stadium: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC
- Capacity: 75,523
- Head Coach: Dave Canales
- Notable Players: Julius Peppers, Steve Smith, Cam Newton
- Team History: The Carolina Panthers, established in 1995 as an expansion team, quickly made their mark in the NFL. Boasting a formidable defense led by Julius Peppers and electrifying plays from Cam Newton, the Panthers have etched their place in the league’s history.
New Orleans Saints
- Founded: 1967
- Stadium: Caesars Superdome, New Orleans, LA
- Capacity: 73,208
- Head Coach: Dennis Allen
- Notable Players: Drew Brees, Archie Manning, Ricky Jackson
- Team History: The New Orleans Saints, established in 1967, have been a source of inspiration and resilience for the city. With legendary quarterbacks like Drew Brees and a defense anchored by Ricky Jackson, the Saints have become synonymous with the indomitable spirit of New Orleans.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Founded: 1976
- Stadium: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL
- Capacity: 65,618
- Head Coach: Todd Bowles
- Notable Players: Derrick Brooks, Warren Sapp, Ronde Barber, Baker Mayfield, Mike Evans
- Team History: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, founded in 1976, have seen their fair share of ups and downs. However, in recent years, the team has witnessed a resurgence, securing a Super Bowl victory in 2021. Legends like Derrick Brooks, Warren Sapp, and Ronde Barber paved the way for the franchise’s success.
NFC West
Arizona Cardinals
- Founded: 1920
- Stadium: State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ
- Capacity: 63,400
- Head Coach: Jonathan Gannon
- Notable Players: Larry Fitzgerald, Kurt Warner, Pat Tillman
- Team History: The Arizona Cardinals, one of the oldest franchises in the league, has undergone transformations in both location and identity. With iconic players like Larry Fitzgerald and Pat Tillman, the Cardinals continue to be a force in the NFC.
Los Angeles Rams
- Founded: 1936 (AFL), 1937 (NFL)
- Stadium: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA
- Capacity: 70,240
- Head Coach: Sean McVay
- Notable Players: Eric Dickerson, Kurt Warner, Marshall Faulk
- Team History: The Los Angeles Rams, tracing their roots to Cleveland in 1936, have undergone relocations and have now returned to Los Angeles. With iconic players like Eric Dickerson and Marshall Faulk, the Rams have left an indelible mark on the league.
- Founded: 1946 (AAFC), 1950 (NFL)
- Stadium: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CA
- Capacity: 68,500
- Head Coach: Kyle Shanahan
- Notable Players: Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, Ronnie Lott, Brock Purdy, Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, Christian McCaffrey
- Team History: The San Francisco 49ers, established in 1946, boast a rich history with five Super Bowl victories. Legendary figures like Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, and Ronnie Lott have defined the team’s legacy, making the 49ers a perennial contender.
Seattle Seahawks
- Founded: 1976
- Stadium: Lumen Field, Seattle, WA
- Capacity: 69,000
- Head Coach: Vacant
- Notable Players: Steve Largent, Shaun Alexander, Russell Wilson, Geno Smith, DK Metcalf
- Team History: The Seattle Seahawks, founded in 1976, have emerged as a powerhouse in the NFC. With iconic players like Steve Largent and recent stars like Russell Wilson, the Seahawks continue to captivate fans with their dynamic style of play.
As the NFL continues to captivate fans with its thrilling matchups and storied rivalries, the league stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of American sports. From the iconic “Bills Mafia” in Buffalo to the legendary “Steel Curtain” in Pittsburgh, each team carries a unique legacy that adds to the tapestry of the NFL. Whether you’re a fan of the historic franchises like the Green Bay Packers or cheering for the new generation of stars like Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert, the NFL provides a shared experience that transcends generations.
So, gear up, showcase your team pride, and immerse yourself in the excitement of the NFL. From the heart-pounding moments on the field to the camaraderie among fans, the National Football League remains a cultural phenomenon that unites millions of enthusiasts worldwide. As the journey through each season unfolds, the NFL’s rich history and dynamic present continue to solidify its place as the pinnacle of American sports entertainment, where every game is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of the passion, dedication, and indomitable spirit that define the essence of football in the United States.
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