Unveiling the NFL’s Most Shocking Postseason Dry Spells: Which Teams Can’t Seem to Catch a Break?

Most Consecutive Seasons Missing Playoffs (All Time)

T-1. Chicago/St. Louis Cardinals, 25 Seasons (1949-73)

The Cardinals used to be the model of doormat franchises in professional sports. And in a way, they still hold some of those qualities. After winning the NFL championship in 1947 and reaching it again in 1948, the Cardinals went more than two decades without making the playoffs. They are one of 12 teams still waiting for their first Lombardi Trophy.

T-1. Washington Commanders, 25 (1946-70)
3. Pittsburgh Steelers, 24 (1948-71)
4. New Orleans Saints, 20 (1967-86)
T-5. Cleveland Browns, 17 (2003-19)
T-5. Buffalo Bills, 17 (2000-16)
T-5. New York Giants, 17 (1964-80)
T-5. Philadelphia Eagles, 17 (1961-77)
T-5. Denver Broncos, 17 (1960-76)

Most Consecutive Seasons Without a Playoff Win (All Time)

1. Chicago/St. Louis/Phoenix/Arizona Cardinals, 50 Seasons (1948-97)

Before the 21st century, the Cardinals were the model for a struggling franchise. The Cardinals, in Chicago at the time, won the NFL championship game in 1947, lost it in 1948 and then didn’t return to the postseason until 1974, over a decade after they had moved to St. Louis.