5 Surprise NFL Playoff contenders prepared to shock fans

The NFL always has its share of known contenders but there are always surprise teams in the mix as well, which could include these five clubs in 2021

Every year, there are contenders that no one questions. This season, that includes teams such as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Kansas City Chiefs, Green Bay Packers, and Buffalo Bills.

There are other teams expected to be in the playoff race such as the Pittsburgh Steelers, Los Angeles Rams, and Seattle Seahawks. However, we see it every season that some team no one expected gets into the playoffs and can make some noise.

Here we look at five such teams, with these surprise playoff contenders that are prepared to shock fans during the 2021 season.

5. New York Giants

This one all depends on one person — Daniel Jones.

After going 6-10 in 2020, the New York Giants added several key players making them one of the more improved teams in the NFC East. Spin Zone’s own Russell Baxter even went a little further than that, asking if they might be the most improved in the entire conference.

"“Big Blue has posted four-straight losing seasons since reaching the playoffs in 2016. But things are definitely looking up for the New York Giants.” — Baxter"

It’s easy to see why he asks such a question with the Giants adding Kenny Golladay, Kadarius Toney, John Ross, and Kyle Rudolph to their offense. On top of that, running back Saquon Barkley is set to return from a torn ACL which could give them a boost.

Again, however, it all comes back to Jones. The third-year quarterback had 2,943 yards with 11 touchdowns and 10 picks last season. He shouldn’t be judged too harshly since New York was without some of their best weapons but he has to prove he can get it done — and there are no more excises.

If he does, the Giants could be a team to watch out for in 2021.