The NFL might just be entering a golden age for team uniforms, a crucial element for branding, marketing, and revenue in America’s biggest sport.
Recent rule changes have significantly impacted uniform design. Two years ago, teams could again use secondary helmet shells, leading to fresh alternative uniform combinations and a welcome return of classic looks. Teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New England Patriots, and Tennessee Titans (formerly Houston Oilers) reintroduced white helmets with their vintage styles, tapping into the popular aesthetics of the 1970s, ’80s, and ’90s – a beloved era for many fans.
Now, the uniform evolution continues. Teams redesigning their uniforms this year were given the option for a third helmet, a choice that will extend to all teams in 2025.
While not every team will immediately utilize this expanded flexibility, several are already embracing change. The New York Jets, Detroit Lions, Denver Broncos, and Houston Texans are all debuting revamped uniforms for the 2024 season. This wave of updates necessitates a fresh look at the league’s sartorial landscape with our updated NFL uniform power rankings, presented from bottom to top (previous rank in parentheses):
32. Washington Commanders (31)
It’s hard to find anyone, especially in the Washington D.C. area, excited about this rebranding effort, which, while perhaps necessary, lacks any real inspiration. Even the team’s new ownership seems lukewarm, hinting at possible future changes. The road uniforms are particularly bland, with the black alternates being the least offensive, though the D.C. flag shoulder detail is a nice touch. Overall, the Commanders’ uniforms remain at the bottom of our Nfl Uniform Rankings.
31. Carolina Panthers (29)
The Carolina Panthers’ uniforms feel dated, a throwback to the 1990s black and teal craze popularized by teams like the San Jose Sharks. While the panther head logo cleverly incorporates the shapes of North and South Carolina, the rest of the uniform design feels like a mismatched collection of elements. It might be time for a refresh, perhaps incorporating Carolina Blue, while keeping the well-designed logo.
30. Cleveland Browns (30)
Brown and orange is a color combination that only a true Clevelander can genuinely love. For the rest of us, it evokes less appealing images like candy corn. The Browns lose further points for not using their brown-on-brown combo with orange numbers last season. However, they gain some credit for reverting to white facemasks and a glossy orange helmet shell, nods to their 1980s glory days. Despite these minor tweaks, the Browns’ uniforms remain near the bottom of the NFL uniform rankings.
29. New England Patriots (19)
Just as it was time to move on from the Bill Belichick era, it’s also time for the Patriots to retire the “Flying Elvis” logo. To truly usher in a new chapter, the Patriots should consider a complete rebrand or, at the very least, fully embrace the return of the beloved “Pat Patriot” uniforms. Moving away from the current uniforms would signal a clear break with the past dynasty and a step towards a new identity.
28. Baltimore Ravens (26)
Black and purple, while aiming for an Edgar Allan Poe aesthetic, don’t quite complement each other effectively. The purple jersey with gold numbers does stand out, but it wasn’t worn last season. The Maryland flag detail on the shoulder is still a highlight. However, team president Sashi Brown has hinted at upcoming alternate looks, and the team’s April Fools’ Day prank involving mustard pants shows they have a sense of humor about their uniform. Hopefully, future Ravens’ uniforms will climb higher in the NFL uniform rankings.
27. Jacksonville Jaguars (24)
The Jaguars’ uniforms are simply “meh” – not terrible, but definitely not inspiring. This is a significant improvement from some of their past uniform missteps, particularly from a decade ago. The Jaguars are wisely planning to bring back throwback uniforms this season, attempting to tap into nostalgia even though the franchise is relatively young. These retro looks might boost their standing in future NFL uniform rankings.
26. Arizona Cardinals (25)
Since their recent redesign, the Arizona Cardinals’ uniforms effectively resemble Ohio State West. While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it’s not a particularly unique or exciting direction. It’s arguably an improvement from their previous look, but the Cardinals’ uniforms still land in the lower middle tier of the NFL uniform rankings.
25. Atlanta Falcons (27)
Credit to former coach Arthur Smith for embracing the Falcons’ throwback uniforms and keeping the less appealing gradient alternates out of sight. The Falcons possess red pants that have never been worn, a hidden gem in their equipment room. While throwbacks aren’t becoming the primary uniform yet, hopefully, the team will consider bringing back the 1980s red jersey and silver pants combination. These classic looks would undoubtedly improve the Falcons’ position in the NFL uniform rankings.
24. Denver Broncos (32)
The Denver Broncos recently unveiled their updated “Mile High Collection” uniforms.
Zach Wilson in Denver Broncos uniform
Are they better? Yes, marginally. It would have been difficult to make them worse. The side panel swooshes and tapered helmet stripe are gone, replaced by triangular “summit markers” and “5280” references, highlighting Denver’s mile-high altitude. The social media rollout featuring an orange Ford Bronco suggests a potential influence from the Detroit Lions’ branding. Despite extensive focus group testing, the result feels like a mix of the Chargers and University of Virginia uniforms. Returning to the John Elway-era classics would have been a more straightforward and popular choice. However, the Broncos deserve credit for utilizing all three helmet options: “Midnight Navy” primary, “Summit White” alternate, and the throwback. It remains to be seen if new QB Zach Wilson can improve the team’s performance while sporting these new uniforms. The Broncos’ new uniforms represent a modest climb in the NFL uniform rankings.
23. Tennessee Titans (28)
The Titans’ uniforms are somewhat chaotic, with various colors and design elements, including shoulder and hip details inspired by Roman centurions – a creative but slightly awkward combination. However, the return of the Oilers throwbacks in their full Columbia Blue glory in 2023 is a major positive, even if Houston fans aren’t thrilled. The Oilers throwbacks significantly boost the Titans’ standing in the NFL uniform rankings.
22. Los Angeles Rams (20)
The Rams’ uniforms, particularly the “Bone” road uniforms, have somewhat grown in appeal, with the exception of the yellow-white gradient on the blue jersey numbers and blue pants striping. However, incorporating throwbacks, specifically navy jerseys and helmets with white ram horns, would greatly enhance their overall look. Throwback uniforms could elevate the Rams further in the NFL uniform rankings.
21. Chicago Bears (23)
The Bears sport conservative, classic uniforms, featuring arguably the best sock game in the league. Their throwbacks are deeply rooted in history, with helmets similar to the University of Michigan’s. If the Bears were to permanently retire the orange helmet and jersey combo, few would complain. The Bears’ classic uniforms maintain a solid mid-range position in the NFL uniform rankings.
20. Miami Dolphins (15)
The Dolphins’ unique aqua and orange color scheme is a fitting tribute to South Florida. The updated logo has aged reasonably well, but, like other teams, their throwback uniforms remain superior. The Dolphins’ uniforms, while modern, still don’t quite reach the top tier of the NFL uniform rankings.
19. New York Giants (17)
Taking a cue from the Jets, the Giants should consider permanently reverting to their late-20th-century uniforms or, at minimum, making them their primaries. It’s puzzling that “Big Blue” currently has no blue in their main road uniforms, aside from the helmet. A return to classic Giants uniforms would likely improve their standing in the NFL uniform rankings.
18. Detroit Lions (22)
It’s fitting that a Ford family-owned team incorporates the Mustang motif into their uniforms with this year’s new striping pattern.
The blue collar detail on all jerseys is a clever nod to Detroit’s hardworking “blue-collar” spirit. While the new alternate blue helmet is sleek, it’s not quite as appealing as last season’s creeping lion logo helmet, which is unfortunately no longer in use. The Lions’ updated uniforms represent a move upwards in the NFL uniform rankings.
17. Buffalo Bills (16)
The Bills’ uniforms are clean and well-presented. The charging buffalo logo is iconic, but incorporating the grazing buffalo logo from their AFL days more often, perhaps with an alternate blue helmet, would be a welcome addition. The Bills’ uniforms are consistently ranked in the upper-middle tier of NFL uniform rankings.
16. San Francisco 49ers (14)
Solid and understated, which is exactly what the 49ers’ “Faithful” fanbase prefers. However, history shows that an interlocking SF logo can’t quite beat an interlocking KC logo when it matters most (Super Bowl). The 49ers’ understated uniforms maintain a respectable position in the NFL uniform rankings.
15. Kansas City Chiefs (11)
The Chiefs’ classic, simple look is increasingly recognizable, especially with the “Swifties” now in the fanbase. The arrowhead KC logo is synonymous with excellence. However, a bit more variety would be appreciated. The Chiefs are the only team without a third jersey and seem resistant to expanding their uniform options. While iconic, the lack of variety prevents the Chiefs from ranking higher in the NFL uniform rankings.
14. Houston Texans (18)
The Texans promised the “most fan-inclusive and transparent uniform redesign in NFL history,” and they may have delivered.
While largely maintaining their classic look, the Texans incorporated feedback from over 10,000 surveys and 30 focus groups. This resulted in a civically inspired Color Rush uniform and helmet and an alternate red kit with a “candy paint red flakes” helmet and chrome facemask. The collection is diverse, respects team tradition, and effectively utilizes the new uniform rules to introduce freshness. Other teams should take note. Oilers fans might appreciate the addition of “H-Town Blue” to the Texans’ color palette. The Texans’ fan-driven redesign earns them a significant jump in the NFL uniform rankings.
13. Dallas Cowboys (12)
Love them or hate them, the Cowboys’ brand, star logo, and overall image are arguably the most recognizable in team sports. Their tradition of wearing white at home provides a unique visual contrast for fans each week. While some, like myself, believe the Cowboys look even better in their navy jerseys and silver pants, their iconic uniforms remain highly ranked in the NFL uniform rankings.
12. Indianapolis Colts (10)
The Colts’ uniforms exude NFL history. Johnny Unitas and the iconic horseshoe logo are deeply embedded in football lore. The primary uniforms have remained largely unchanged for decades, a testament to their timeless design. The “Indiana Nights” alternate uniform, while generally well-received, was slightly marred by an unnecessary black helmet. The Colts’ classic uniforms hold a strong position in the NFL uniform rankings.
11. Green Bay Packers (13)
The Packers’ uniforms represent even more NFL history, as the league’s all-time winningest franchise. However, it might be time to inject a little more excitement. Adding a green helmet to their monochrome dark green alternates would be a fun and logical step. The Packers’ historic uniforms consistently rank high in the NFL uniform rankings.
10. New York Jets (21)
Finally, thank you, Jets! While a truly unique, fighter jet-inspired uniform might remain a dream, the permanent return to the NYJ’s 1980s look is a massive improvement.
The uniforms are stunning, the logo is sleek on both the shimmery green and black matte helmets, and the new secondary insignias add welcome variety. The only minor drawback is the missed opportunity for a truly unique third kit, though the players seem thrilled with the current options. The Jets’ retro-inspired uniforms catapult them into the top 10 of the NFL uniform rankings.
9. Minnesota Vikings (8)
The Vikings’ uniforms are consistently underrated, featuring a striking purple and gold color combination and subtle Norse details. Their throwbacks are clean, but it’s a shame the alternate purple jerseys with gold numbers weren’t used last season. The Vikings’ unique color scheme and design details keep them in the top tier of the NFL uniform rankings.
8. Cincinnati Bengals (7)
The Bengals boast the best head-to-toe alternate uniform in the league: the white tiger kit with a bleached helmet and black tiger stripes. They’ve also refined their primary uniforms, which remain one of the league’s more creative and fun looks. Retiring the orange jerseys entirely wouldn’t be a loss, as they were only worn once last season. The Bengals’ bold and creative uniforms secure a high ranking in the NFL uniform rankings.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9)
The “Creamsicle” uniforms are back in rotation, and the less popular “alarm clock” jerseys are a distant memory. The pirate ship-era kits, popularized by Sapp and Brady, remain the standard look, with “Bucco Bruce” throwbacks providing occasional variety. All is right with the Buccaneers’ uniform situation, placing them comfortably in the top 10 of the NFL uniform rankings.
6. Philadelphia Eagles (6)
The return of the Kelly Green retro Eagles uniforms in 2023 was fantastic. While anticipation for more Kelly Green is high, the Midnight Green and black uniforms are also excellent and hold historical significance as the uniforms in which the Eagles won their Super Bowl. The Eagles’ classic and throwback options make them a perennial top contender in NFL uniform rankings.
5. Seattle Seahawks (5)
The Seahawks’ original blue, silver, and green retro uniforms also made a welcome return in 2023. While those throwbacks are highly anticipated, the contemporary College Navy, Wolf Grey, and Action Green look, with creatively integrated feathers, is Nike’s best NFL redesign. These modern uniforms are also historically significant as the ones in which Seattle won their Super Bowl. The Seahawks’ blend of modern design and retro appreciation places them near the very top of the NFL uniform rankings.
4. New Orleans Saints (4)
Generally, too many uniform combinations can dilute a team’s brand. Not so with the Saints. Black, white, and “Old Gold” – it all works, including the deeper gold hue used on the home and away throwbacks. The black helmet with cascading Fleur-De-Lis logos is arguably the best alternate helmet in the league. A Mardi Gras-inspired uniform with New Orleans Jazz colors would be an incredible addition. The Saints’ diverse and stylish uniform collection keeps them in the elite tier of the NFL uniform rankings.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers (3)
Black and gold. The iconic Steelers logo, inspired by the Steelmark symbol, featuring hypocycloids on the helmet, is a true classic. Even some fans prefer the “Dark Knight” alternates, the standard black and gold uniforms are timeless and consistently rank among the best in the NFL uniform rankings.
T1. Las Vegas Raiders (1), Los Angeles Chargers (2)
This might be a tie, but sometimes there’s no single right answer. The Chargers offer vibrant color, multiple uniform combinations that enhance rather than confuse their look, and the lightning bolt logo that perfectly spans the helmets. Conversely, the Raiders’ Silver and Black is the most menacing look in the league, thanks to its stark color scheme and sinister shield logo.
Perhaps the tiebreaker will be decided by the best uniform paired with a secondary helmet. Imagine the Chargers in Seau-Tomlinson era navy helmets with white bolts. And picture the Raiders in monochrome black with a black helmet and silver primary logo. The Jets listened and brought back a classic look – it’s time for the AFC West’s best-looking teams to do the same. Both the Raiders and Chargers share the top spot in our NFL uniform rankings, showcasing the pinnacle of NFL style.
Follow USA TODAY Sports’ Nate Davis on X, formerly Twitter @ByNateDavis.
