The social media age has amplified immediate reactions to sports news, often with harsh criticism, especially when it comes to uniform changes. The Denver Broncos experienced this firsthand after their recent uniform reveal. This offseason, four NFL franchises decided to revamp their uniforms, leading to both anticipation and apprehension about fan reception. However, the reality is that these teams, including the Broncos, have largely succeeded with their new looks. Even the Cleveland Browns’ subtle change of white facemasks, while perhaps hyped excessively, is a welcome throwback that enhances their classic uniforms.
Let’s dive into a ranking of the new NFL uniforms for the 2024 season, from least to most impressive:
4. Denver Broncos
The Broncos find themselves at the bottom of this ranking, but it’s more a testament to the strength of the other new uniforms than a complete failure on Denver’s part. The social media backlash might suggest a uniform catastrophe, but these new kits are far from disastrous.
Perhaps the overwhelmingly negative initial response is due to the Broncos’ previous uniforms, which had been in use since 1997 and were widely considered among the least appealing in the NFL. In that context, almost any change would be an improvement. Once the initial wave of jokes subsides, these new jerseys, pants, and helmets will likely be viewed more favorably over time. There’s genuinely nothing inherently wrong with this updated set.
Options on options on options. pic.twitter.com/LrA8vS91gc
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) April 23, 2024
An ode to the past with a focus on the future.
This is the Mile High Collection. pic.twitter.com/U4dY9jL1iZ
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) April 22, 2024
The Broncos’ primary misstep was not making their stunning 1977 alternate throwbacks the permanent uniform. That particular design is truly exceptional and resonates deeply with fans.
Throwin’ it back to 1977.
📸’s » https://t.co/k9h0wyheHM pic.twitter.com/hyMPYWGsKU
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) April 22, 2024
Nevertheless, despite missing an opportunity for true greatness with the 1977 throwbacks, the Broncos’ overall uniform refresh is not as bad as initial reactions suggested. It’s just not the best of this year’s new NFL uniform class.
3. Detroit Lions
It speaks volumes about the quality of this year’s new uniforms that the Detroit Lions, with their strong new look, are ranked second to last.
There’s very little to criticize about the Lions’ updated uniforms, which lean heavily into a classic aesthetic. These uniforms evoke images of legendary players like Barry Sanders facing off against Reggie White or John Lynch in the mid-1990s – a powerful and positive association for any NFL franchise.
While rooted in tradition, the Lions’ new uniforms incorporate subtle modern touches. The word “Detroit” emblazoned across the front of the away jerseys is a particularly effective design element. The Lions wisely avoided a radical redesign, opting instead to refine and enhance their classic look, which was exactly what most fans desired.
New threads 📸
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) April 18, 2024
When we punch in, we’re gonna rep our town pic.twitter.com/hfY0tQgg0p
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) April 19, 2024
The Lions’ alternate black and blue uniforms are likely to be a hit with many fans, though perhaps not universally loved. However, those who appreciate this bolder style will likely find them exceptionally appealing.
Well? pic.twitter.com/VqO2YtsD3P
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) April 19, 2024
In summary, the Detroit Lions’ new uniforms are a resounding success. They are clean, well-executed, respectful of team history, and avoid unnecessary overdesign – a job well done by Detroit.
2. New York Jets
The New York Jets have turned back the clock to the 1980s, and the result is fantastic.
The “Sack Exchange” era Jets were not only a thrilling team to watch but also sported a consistently sharp look. Reviving this classic style was a logical and winning move for the franchise.
this combo >>>> pic.twitter.com/txJjU3T2OL
— New York Jets (@nyjets) April 15, 2024
They’re here and they’re beautiful. pic.twitter.com/XAS3YBbTHU
— New York Jets (@nyjets) April 15, 2024
Timeless tradition never goes out of style #JetUp
✈️ https://t.co/Lk3d5uFbp2 pic.twitter.com/hdXZPTJ3vH
— New York Jets (@nyjets) April 15, 2024
The Jets had previously used this iconic look as a throwback uniform, and its overwhelming popularity led them to make it their permanent design. This was a smart and fan-pleasing decision.
Every aspect of these new Jets uniforms is outstanding. They serve as a valuable lesson for other NFL teams: uniform design peaked decades ago. Instead of constantly trying to reinvent the wheel, teams should consider refining classic designs. Updating a timeless look often leads to widespread satisfaction.
If there’s any minor critique, it’s that some fans might prefer the Jets’ uniforms from the 1998-2018 era. However, these new/old uniforms are a definite home run.
1. Houston Texans
The Houston Texans’ uniform redesign is a masterclass, and whoever spearheaded this project deserves significant praise.
The Texans faced a unique challenge in launching new uniforms. As a relatively young franchise, established in 2002, they lack the deep well of nostalgia that teams like the Broncos, Lions, and Jets can tap into. The Texans couldn’t rely on sentimental connections to past eras or beloved historical designs.
Despite this hurdle, the Texans absolutely nailed their uniform rollout. Every single uniform combination they unveiled is exceptional.
Modern meets tradition 🤝 pic.twitter.com/xW3D5QChn5
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) April 23, 2024
Ice bright as a neon light ❄️ pic.twitter.com/xUckVfYmpv
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) April 23, 2024
Bold for the battle 🔴 pic.twitter.com/2yOAWRoYVO
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) April 23, 2024
A special mention must be made for the Texans’ dark blue alternate uniforms with red numbers. These are not only the standout set among their new collection but could quickly become one of the best uniform sets in the entire NFL. If you’re a Houston Texans fan and don’t own a No. 7 C.J. Stroud H-Town alternate jersey before Week 1, you’re missing out.
Ice so blue 🥶 pic.twitter.com/3nC5xglb6x
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) April 23, 2024
Overall, the NFL’s on-field appearance will be significantly enhanced this season with the introduction of these four excellent new uniform sets and their various combinations. The Houston Texans are an ascending team in the league, and while a Super Bowl victory this season might be a lofty expectation, they have undoubtedly won the 2024 NFL uniform battle.
