The National Football League is entering an exciting era for team uniforms, a crucial aspect of the sport’s appeal, marketability, and revenue generation. Recent rule changes, notably the reinstatement of secondary helmet shells a couple of years ago and the forthcoming option for a third helmet in 2025, have opened doors for teams to explore alternative uniform combinations and reconnect with their historical looks. This has already been evident with teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New England Patriots, and Tennessee Titans (formerly Houston Oilers) bringing back iconic white helmets associated with their classic styles, especially from the fashion-forward 1970s, 80s, and 90s eras beloved by many fans.
This year, the uniform landscape is further energized by redesigns from the New York Jets, Detroit Lions, Denver Broncos, and Houston Texans for the 2024 season. This wave of fresh designs prompts an updated ranking of NFL uniforms, presented from worst to best, continuing our annual assessment. Let’s dive into the power rankings and see where your favorite team lands in the quest for the Best Football Uniforms Nfl.
32. Washington Commanders (31)
It’s challenging to find enthusiasm for this rebrand, especially in the Washington D.C. area. Many consider it uninspired, and even the new ownership seems open to another potential overhaul in the future. The road uniforms are particularly unappealing. The black alternate uniforms are arguably the best of the lot, though that’s somewhat by default. However, the inclusion of the District of Columbia flag on the shoulders is a commendable detail.
31. Carolina Panthers (29)
The Carolina Panthers’ uniforms feel dated, a relic of the 1990s trend of black and teal (or “Panther Blue”) – reminiscent of the San Jose Sharks’ color scheme. While the panther head logo cleverly incorporates the shapes of North and South Carolina, the overall uniform design feels like it’s time for a modern refresh, perhaps incorporating more Carolina Blue. However, the logo itself has staying power.
30. Cleveland Browns (30)
The Cleveland Browns’ color combination of brown and orange is an acquired taste, often compared to candy corn. The team loses points for not utilizing their brown-over-brown combo with orange numbers last season. The return to white facemasks, acknowledging their 1980s period, and a glossy orange helmet shell are minor improvements, but the overall look remains at the bottom of the best football uniforms nfl list for many.
29. New England Patriots (19)
Just as the Bill Belichick era concluded, it might be time for the New England Patriots to move on from the “Flying Elvis” logo. A rebrand or a permanent shift back to the “Pat Patriot” uniforms could be a way to officially close the dynasty chapter and usher in a new visual identity for the franchise.
28. Baltimore Ravens (26)
The Baltimore Ravens’ black and purple color scheme doesn’t always blend seamlessly, despite its Edgar Allan Poe inspiration. The purple jersey with gold numbers does offer a striking contrast, although it wasn’t worn last season. The Maryland flag detail on the shoulder crest is a highlight. Excitingly, team president Sashi Brown has hinted at upcoming alternate looks, and the team’s social media playfully teased “mustard pants” as an April Fools’ joke, suggesting potential future uniform experiments.
27. Jacksonville Jaguars (24)
The Jacksonville Jaguars’ uniforms occupy a neutral territory – not offensive, but not particularly inspiring either. This is a step up from some of their more questionable uniform choices of the past decade. The Jaguars are expected to embrace throwback uniforms this season, drawing on their relatively short history for retro inspiration.
26. Arizona Cardinals (25)
Since their recent redesign, the Arizona Cardinals’ uniforms bear a resemblance to Ohio State’s. This isn’t necessarily negative, representing a modest improvement from their previous designs, making them a middle-of-the-pack contender in the best football uniforms nfl rankings.
25. Atlanta Falcons (27)
Former Atlanta Falcons head coach Arthur Smith deserves credit for showcasing the team’s throwback uniforms and keeping the less popular gradient alternates out of sight. Interestingly, the Falcons possess red pants that have never been worn. While throwbacks aren’t becoming primary uniforms yet, a return of the 1980s-era red jersey and silver pants would be a welcome addition.
24. Denver Broncos (32)
Zach Wilson Denver Broncos
The Denver Broncos unveiled their updated “Mile High Collection” uniforms recently. They are indeed an improvement, as it would have been difficult to create a worse design than their predecessors. The side panel swooshes and tapered helmet stripe are gone, replaced by triangular “summit markers” on the jersey and helmet, and “5280” references highlighting Denver’s mile-high elevation. Despite the exhaustive redesign process, the result resembles a blend of the Chargers’ and University of Virginia’s uniforms. Many fans hoped for a return to the John Elway-era classics. However, the Broncos gain points for utilizing all three helmet options: “Midnight Navy” primary, “Summit White” alternate, and a throwback helmet. It remains to be seen if new QB Zach Wilson can improve the team’s performance while sporting these new kits.
23. Tennessee Titans (28)
The Tennessee Titans’ uniforms are a mix of elements, featuring various color accents and combinations, and shoulder and hip details that nod to Roman centurions – a creative but somewhat clunky design. The saving grace is the return of the Oilers throwbacks in their full Columbia Blue glory in 2023, a move appreciated by some but disliked by Houston fans.
22. Los Angeles Rams (20)
The Los Angeles Rams’ uniforms, initially criticized, have grown on some observers, including the minimized “Bone” road uniforms, except for the yellow-white gradient on the blue jersey numbers and blue pants striping. The uniforms would be significantly enhanced by incorporating throwbacks, ideally navy jerseys and helmets with white ram horns, to inject some classic Rams style into their modern look.
21. Chicago Bears (23)
The Chicago Bears boast conservative, classic uniforms, highlighted by arguably the league’s best sock game. Their throwback uniforms have a long history, with helmets similar to the University of Michigan’s. Many would likely not miss the orange helmet and orange jersey combination if it were retired, preferring their more traditional looks.
20. Miami Dolphins (15)
The Miami Dolphins’ unique aqua and orange color palette is a fitting tribute to South Florida, and their updated logo has aged reasonably well. However, like many teams with a rich history, the Dolphins’ throwback uniforms are still considered superior by many fans, capturing a more nostalgic and vibrant aesthetic.
19. New York Giants (17)
The New York Giants should consider following the New York Jets’ lead and permanently revert to their late-20th-century uniforms or, at least, make them their primary kits. It’s perplexing that “Big Blue” currently lacks blue in their main road uniforms, except for the helmet, a missed opportunity to embrace their iconic team color.
18. Detroit Lions (22)
It’s a nice touch for the Ford family-owned Detroit Lions to integrate the Mustang motif into their uniforms with this year’s new striping pattern. The blue collar detail featured on all jerseys is a clever tribute to Detroit’s hardworking ethos. While the new alternate blue helmet is stylish, it doesn’t quite surpass the previous helmet with the creeping lion logo, which is unfortunately no longer in use. Overall, the Lions are making strides in the best football uniforms nfl conversation.
17. Buffalo Bills (16)
The Buffalo Bills present a clean and strong uniform design, anchored by their charging buffalo logo. Incorporating the grazing buffalo logo from their AFL days more frequently, perhaps with an alternate blue helmet, could further enhance their visual appeal and connect with their historical roots.
16. San Francisco 49ers (14)
The San Francisco 49ers’ uniforms are solid and understated, aligning with the preferences of their “Faithful” fanbase. However, history suggests that an interlocking SF logo might not be as potent as an interlocking KC when championships are on the line.
15. Kansas City Chiefs (11)
The Kansas City Chiefs’ classic and simple uniform design is increasingly recognizable, even beyond football circles thanks to celebrity associations. The arrowhead KC logo is becoming synonymous with excellence. However, a bit more variety would be welcome. The Chiefs are the only NFL team without a third jersey and seem resistant to expanding their uniform options.
14. Houston Texans (18)
The Houston Texans aimed for a “most fan-inclusive and transparent uniform redesign in NFL history,” and they seem to have delivered. While maintaining their core look, the Texans incorporated feedback from extensive surveys and focus groups, resulting in a civically inspired Color Rush uniform and helmet, and a vibrant alternate red kit with a “candy paint red flakes” finish and chrome facemask. This diverse collection balances team tradition with modern freshness and variation, setting a good example for other teams. Oilers fans might appreciate the new “H-Town Blue” added to the Texans’ color palette, a subtle nod to Houston football history.
13. Dallas Cowboys (12)
Love them or hate them, the Dallas Cowboys’ brand, including their star logo, is arguably the most iconic in team sports. Their tradition of wearing white at home provides a unique color contrast for fans each week. While they are known as “America’s Team,” some argue that the Cowboys actually look even better in their navy jerseys and silver pants. They consistently rank high in discussions about the best football uniforms nfl.
12. Indianapolis Colts (10)
The Indianapolis Colts’ uniforms evoke NFL history. Johnny Unitas and the iconic horseshoe logo played a significant role in popularizing the NFL. The primary uniforms have remained largely consistent over the decades. The “Indiana Nights” alternate uniform was a generally well-received addition last year, although the black helmet was less successful.
11. Green Bay Packers (13)
The Green Bay Packers represent even deeper NFL history as the league’s all-time winningest franchise. To inject some fun, they could consider adding a green helmet to their monochrome dark green alternate uniforms, enhancing their already strong visual identity.
10. New York Jets (21)
The New York Jets’ permanent return to their 1980s look is a major upgrade. While some might have wished for a more unique third kit, perhaps incorporating an F-22 fighter jet theme, the current uniforms are undeniably stylish. The uniforms are excellent, the logo is sleek on both the shimmery green helmet and black matte alternates, and the new secondary insignias add welcome variety. The Jets have made a significant leap towards having some of the best football uniforms nfl.
9. Minnesota Vikings (8)
The Minnesota Vikings’ uniforms are consistently underrated, featuring a striking purple and gold combination and subtle Norse-inspired details. Their throwback uniforms are clean, but it’s a shame the alternate purple jerseys with gold numbers were not used last season.
8. Cincinnati Bengals (7)
The Cincinnati Bengals boast the league’s best head-to-toe alternate uniform: the white tiger kit with a bleached helmet and black tiger stripes. They have also refined their primary uniforms, which remain among the league’s most creative and fun designs. Retiring the orange jerseys entirely wouldn’t be a loss, as they were barely worn last season.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9)
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have reintroduced their “Creamsicle” uniforms, and the less popular “alarm clock” jerseys are a thing of the past. The pirate ship-era kits, associated with players like Sapp and Brady, are now the standard look, with “Bucco Bruce” throwbacks occasionally featured. This return to classic designs has significantly improved their uniform appeal.
6. Philadelphia Eagles (6)
The Philadelphia Eagles’ Kelly Green retro uniforms were a welcome return in 2023, and fans eagerly anticipate seeing them more often. However, the Midnight Green and black uniforms are also strong and hold historical significance as the uniforms in which the Eagles won their Super Bowl.
5. Seattle Seahawks (5)
The Seattle Seahawks’ original blue, silver, and green throwback uniforms also made a celebrated return in 2023, and anticipation is high for more appearances. However, their contemporary College Navy, Wolf Grey, and Action Green look, with creatively integrated feathers, is considered Nike’s best NFL redesign and is also historically significant as the uniform in which Seattle secured their Super Bowl victory. The Seahawks consistently rank among teams with the best football uniforms nfl.
4. New Orleans Saints (4)
Generally, excessive uniform combinations can dilute a team’s identity, but not for the New Orleans Saints. Black, white, and “Old Gold” all work harmoniously, including the deeper gold hue used on the home and away throwbacks. Their 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 future concept.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers (3)
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ black and gold color scheme and iconic logo, inspired by the Steelmark symbol, are timeless classics. The trio of hypocycloids on the helmet is instantly recognizable. Even the “Dark Knight” alternate uniforms are highly favored by some, but the core black and gold remains a symbol of NFL tradition.
T1. Las Vegas Raiders (1), Los Angeles Chargers (2)
It’s impossible to definitively choose between these two, making it a tie at the top. The Los Angeles Chargers offer vibrant color, diverse uniform combinations, and the striking lightning bolt logo that spans their helmets. Conversely, the Las Vegas Raiders embody a menacing aesthetic with their silver and black color scheme and sinister shield logo.
The tiebreaker might hinge on which team develops the best uniform paired with a secondary helmet. Navy helmets with white bolts for the Chargers, reminiscent of the Seau-Tomlinson era, would be highly anticipated. Similarly, monochrome black Raiders uniforms with a black helmet and silver logo would be a powerful look. Just as the Jets listened to fan desires, these AFC West teams should consider these classic-inspired combinations to further solidify their status as contenders for the best football uniforms nfl.
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Follow USA TODAY Sports’ Nate Davis on X, formerly Twitter @ByNateDavis.
