The National Football League is not just about touchdowns and tackles; it’s a spectacle, and a significant part of that spectacle is the uniforms. As we gear up for the 2024 season, several teams have unveiled fresh looks, adding to the ever-evolving tapestry of NFL fashion. With teams now having the option for three helmets, the creative possibilities are expanding, promising a golden era for NFL uniforms, a key component of the sport’s massive marketing and revenue machine. This year, the New York Jets, Detroit Lions, Denver Broncos, and Houston Texans are among those debuting revamped uniforms, prompting us to update our annual NFL uniform power rankings. From gridiron glory to fashion fumbles, let’s dive into the definitive ranking of NFL uniforms, from worst to best, just in time for the new season.
32. Washington Commanders (Ranked 31st Previously)
It’s hard to find anyone in the Washington D.C. area thrilled about this rebrand. The Commanders’ uniforms lack inspiration, a sentiment seemingly shared by the team’s new ownership, who haven’t ruled out another rebranding effort down the line. The road uniforms are particularly unappealing. The black alternates are marginally better, mostly by default, though the inclusion of the District of Columbia flag on the shoulders is a commendable detail. Overall, they are far from being considered among the best uniforms in the NFL.
31. Carolina Panthers (Ranked 29th Previously)
The Carolina Panthers’ uniforms feel dated, a throwback to the 1990s black and teal craze. While the panther head logo cleverly incorporates the shapes of North and South Carolina, the overall design is a hodgepodge that’s ready for a refresh. Perhaps a move towards something closer to Carolina Blue would be beneficial. Currently, they are not in the conversation for best uniforms in the NFL.
30. Cleveland Browns (Ranked 30th Previously)
Brown and orange is a color combination that only a true Clevelander could truly love. The Cleveland Browns lose points for not utilizing their brown-over-brown combo with orange numbers last season. However, they gain some ground by reverting to white facemasks and a glossy orange helmet shell, acknowledging their 1980s legacy. Despite these tweaks, the Browns’ uniforms still sit low in rankings of best uniforms in the NFL.
29. New England Patriots (Ranked 19th Previously)
With the Bill Belichick era over, it might be time for the New England Patriots to move on from the “Flying Elvis” logo and fully embrace a rebrand, or at least permanently return to the beloved “Pat Patriot” uniforms. This would likely be a step towards having some of the best uniforms in the NFL again, moving away from their current, less favored look.
28. Baltimore Ravens (Ranked 26th Previously)
Black and purple don’t always harmonize perfectly in the Baltimore Ravens’ uniforms, even when channeling Edgar Allan Poe. The purple jersey with gold numbers does stand out, but it wasn’t worn last season. The Maryland flag on the shoulder crest remains a strong detail. With hints of alternate looks on the horizon, there’s potential for the Ravens to climb in future rankings of best uniforms in the NFL.
27. Jacksonville Jaguars (Ranked 24th Previously)
The Jacksonville Jaguars’ uniforms occupy a “meh” zone – not offensive, but not inspiring. This is a significant improvement from some of their past uniform missteps. Rumors suggest the Jaguars might be throwing it back to earlier designs this season, which could improve their standing among the best uniforms in the NFL.
26. Arizona Cardinals (Ranked 25th Previously)
Since their redesign last year, the Arizona Cardinals effectively resemble Ohio State West. While this represents an improvement, it’s not a dramatic leap. They’ve moved up slightly, but still have work to do to be considered among the best uniforms in the NFL.
25. Atlanta Falcons (Ranked 27th Previously)
Former Atlanta Falcons head coach Arthur Smith deserves credit for embracing the throwback uniforms and keeping the gradient alternates out of sight. The Falcons also possess red pants that have never been worn. Bringing back the 1980s red jersey and silver pants could significantly boost their uniform appeal and push them closer to discussions of best uniforms in the NFL.
24. Denver Broncos (Ranked 32nd Previously)
Denver Broncos Zach Wilson in new uniform
The Denver Broncos unveiled their updated “Mile High Collection” uniforms. While an improvement over their previous look, it’s a subtle one. The swooshes and tapered helmet stripe are gone, replaced by triangular “summit markers” and “5280” references, highlighting Denver’s altitude. The design, however, draws comparisons to the Chargers and University of Virginia. Despite utilizing all three helmet options – “Midnight Navy,” “Summit White,” and a throwback – the Broncos’ new uniforms are a mixed bag in the quest for best uniforms in the NFL.
23. Tennessee Titans (Ranked 28th Previously)
The Tennessee Titans’ uniforms are somewhat disjointed, with various colors and details, including shoulder and hip designs reminiscent of a Roman centurion. However, the return of the Oilers throwbacks, in full Columbia Blue glory, is a significant plus, even if Houston fans might disagree. The Oilers throwbacks alone elevate the Titans in conversations about best uniforms in the NFL.
22. Los Angeles Rams (Ranked 20th Previously)
The Los Angeles Rams’ uniforms, particularly the “Bone” road uniforms, have somewhat grown in favor, although they are increasingly minimized. Throwback uniforms, especially navy jerseys and helmets with white ram horns, would greatly enhance their overall look and potentially place them higher among the best uniforms in the NFL.
21. Chicago Bears (Ranked 23rd Previously)
Conservative classics, the Chicago Bears’ uniforms are highlighted by perhaps the league’s best sock game. Their throwbacks are deeply rooted in history, with helmets similar to the University of Michigan. Avoiding the orange helmet and jersey combo would likely be welcomed by most fans, further solidifying their classic appeal in rankings of best uniforms in the NFL.
20. Miami Dolphins (Ranked 15th Previously)
The Miami Dolphins’ unique aqua and orange color scheme is a fitting tribute to South Florida. The updated logo has aged reasonably well, but, like many teams, their throwback uniforms remain the preferred choice, offering a stronger claim to be considered among the best uniforms in the NFL.
19. New York Giants (Ranked 17th Previously)
The New York Giants should consider following the Jets’ lead and permanently revert to their late-20th-century uniforms or, at least, make them their primary set. It’s puzzling that “Big Blue” currently lacks blue in their main road uniforms. A return to more blue could significantly improve their aesthetic and standing among the best uniforms in the NFL.
18. Detroit Lions (Ranked 22nd Previously)
The Detroit Lions continue to incorporate the Mustang motif into their uniforms, with new striping patterns for 2024. The blue collar featured in all jerseys is a nice nod to Detroit’s hardworking spirit. While the new alternate blue helmet is sharp, it doesn’t quite match the appeal of the previous helmet with the creeping lion logo. The updated uniforms are a step in the right direction in the Detroit Lions’ pursuit of best uniforms in the NFL.
17. Buffalo Bills (Ranked 16th Previously)
Clean and well-presented, the Buffalo Bills’ uniforms feature the iconic charging buffalo logo. Integrating the grazing buffalo logo from their AFL days more regularly, perhaps with an alternate blue helmet, could further enhance their look and strengthen their position among the best uniforms in the NFL.
16. San Francisco 49ers (Ranked 14th Previously)
Solid and understated, the San Francisco 49ers’ uniforms reflect the preferences of their “Faithful” fanbase. However, history notes that an interlocking SF logo hasn’t outperformed an interlocking KC when it truly counts. While classic, they are in the middle tier when discussing best uniforms in the NFL.
15. Kansas City Chiefs (Ranked 11th Previously)
The Kansas City Chiefs’ classic, simple look is increasingly recognized, even by the “Swifties.” The arrowhead KC logo is becoming synonymous with excellence. However, the Chiefs are the only team without a third jersey and seem uninterested in expanding their uniform options. While iconic, a bit more variety could elevate them further in rankings of best uniforms in the NFL.
14. Houston Texans (Ranked 18th Previously)
The Houston Texans aimed for a fan-inclusive uniform redesign, and it appears they delivered. While maintaining their core look, they incorporated feedback from surveys and focus groups, resulting in a civically inspired Color Rush uniform and helmet, and a striking alternate red kit with “candy paint red flakes” and a chrome facemask. This diverse collection, rooted in tradition yet fresh, is a smart approach. The addition of “H-Town Blue” is also notable for Oilers fans. The Texans’ thoughtful redesign places them in the conversation for best uniforms in the NFL.
13. Dallas Cowboys (Ranked 12th Previously)
Love them or hate them, the Dallas Cowboys’ brand, including their star logo, is arguably the most recognizable in sports. Their tradition of wearing white at home provides a unique visual dynamic. While some prefer their navy jerseys and silver pants, the Cowboys’ uniforms remain iconic and highly ranked when discussing best uniforms in the NFL.
12. Indianapolis Colts (Ranked 10th Previously)
The Indianapolis Colts’ uniforms exude NFL history, reminiscent of Johnny Unitas and the iconic horseshoe logo. The primary uniforms have remained largely unchanged over decades. The “Indiana Nights” alternate was a decent addition, though the black helmet was less successful. Overall, the Colts maintain a strong, historically resonant uniform set, considered among the best uniforms in the NFL for traditionalists.
11. Green Bay Packers (Ranked 13th Previously)
The Green Bay Packers’ uniforms represent even more NFL history. As the league’s all-time winningest franchise, their look is instantly recognizable. Adding a green helmet to their monochrome dark green alternates could inject some fun into their classic style and potentially push them higher in rankings of best uniforms in the NFL.
10. New York Jets (Ranked 21st Previously)
The New York Jets have finally listened and delivered a permanent callback to their 1980s look. These new uniforms are a significant upgrade. The uniforms are visually appealing, the logo is sleek on both the green helmet and black matte alternates, and the new secondary insignias add welcome variety. While a truly unique third kit might be desired, the players and fans seem thrilled with the return to a classic aesthetic, solidifying the Jets among the best uniforms in the NFL.
9. Minnesota Vikings (Ranked 8th Previously)
Often underrated, the Minnesota Vikings’ purple and gold combination is striking, complemented by subtle Norse details. Their throwbacks are clean, and it’s a shame the alternate purple jerseys with gold numbers weren’t used last season. The Vikings consistently field a strong uniform set, placing them firmly in the top tier of best uniforms in the NFL.
8. Cincinnati Bengals (Ranked 7th Previously)
The Cincinnati Bengals boast the league’s best head-to-toe alternate: the white tiger kit with a bleached helmet and black tiger stripes. They’ve also refined their primary uniforms, maintaining a creative and fun look. Moving away from the orange jerseys, which they rarely wear anyway, could further streamline their excellent uniform collection, recognized as some of the best uniforms in the NFL.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Ranked 9th Previously)
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have brought back the “Creamsicle” uniforms, while thankfully retiring the “alarm clock” jerseys. With the pirate ship kits as their standard look and “Bucco Bruce” mixed in occasionally, the Buccaneers have a strong and varied uniform set. All is right in Tampa Bay’s uniform world, making them a contender for best uniforms in the NFL.
6. Philadelphia Eagles (Ranked 6th Previously)
The return of the Kelly Green retros for the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023 was a highlight. While anticipation builds for more Kelly Green, the Midnight Green and black uniforms remain timeless, especially as the uniforms in which the Eagles won their Super Bowl. The Eagles have a consistently strong uniform presence, rightfully considered among the best uniforms in the NFL.
5. Seattle Seahawks (Ranked 5th Previously)
The Seattle Seahawks’ original blue, silver, and green look also made a welcome return in 2023. While those retros are eagerly awaited, 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 iconic, as the ones in which Seattle secured its Super Bowl victory, firmly placing the Seahawks among the best uniforms in the NFL.
4. New Orleans Saints (Ranked 4th Previously)
The New Orleans Saints demonstrate that multiple uniform combinations can work effectively without diluting a team’s identity. Black, white, and “Old Gold” all harmonize, including the deeper gold used on the throwbacks. The black helmet with cascading Fleur-De-Lis logos is arguably the league’s best alternate helmet. A Mardi Gras-inspired uniform with New Orleans Jazz colors would be an exciting addition to an already outstanding uniform collection, consistently ranked among the best uniforms in the NFL.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers (Ranked 3rd Previously)
Black and gold define the Pittsburgh Steelers. Their iconic logo, inspired by the Steelmark symbol, is instantly recognizable. A true classic, the Steelers’ uniforms are consistently ranked among the best in the NFL, even if some prefer their “Dark Knight” alternates.
T1. Las Vegas Raiders (Ranked 1st Previously), Los Angeles Chargers (Ranked 2nd Previously)
It’s impossible to pick a definitive favorite between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Los Angeles Chargers. The Chargers offer a vibrant splash of color and multiple uniform combinations, all anchored by the striking lightning bolt logo. Conversely, the Silver and Black of the Raiders project the league’s most menacing aesthetic, thanks to their color scheme and shield logo. Both teams represent the pinnacle of NFL uniform design and are perpetually contenders for best uniforms in the NFL. Imagine the Chargers in navy helmets with white bolts, reminiscent of the Seau-Tomlinson era, or the Raiders in monochrome black with a black helmet and silver logo – uniform perfection.
Follow USA TODAY Sports’ Nate Davis on X, formerly Twitter @ByNateDavis.
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