List of NFL seasons

The List of National Football League (NFL) seasons chronicles the complete history of NFL seasons from its inception to the present day. The NFL, established in 1920 as the American Professional Football Association before being renamed in 1922, is a professional American football league in the United States. This list details the league's seasons, documenting the champions and the evolution of the league structure over the years.

History

The NFL was founded in 1920, and the first season was played the same year. Initially, the league consisted of fourteen teams, primarily located in the Midwest. The first season did not have a standardized schedule nor a playoff system, with the champion being decided by league standings.

Early Years (1920–1932)

In the early years, the NFL struggled with organization, fluctuating numbers of teams, and varied levels of competition. The league did not have a set schedule, and teams could play non-league opponents. Championships during this period were awarded based on win-loss records.

Establishment of the Playoff System (1933–1969)

In 1933, the NFL split into two divisions, and the first NFL Championship Game was held. This format began the tradition of a postseason to determine the NFL champion. The 1950s saw the introduction of a national television contract, which significantly increased the league's popularity and financial stability.

Merger and the Super Bowl Era (1970–present)

The merger between the NFL and the American Football League (AFL) was completed in 1970, leading to a unified league with a common draft and championship game, known as the Super Bowl. The Super Bowl has become the most watched annual sporting event in the United States, symbolizing the pinnacle of professional American football.

Season structure

The NFL season structure has evolved over the years. Currently, it consists of a four-week preseason, a seventeen-week regular season, and a postseason that includes divisional playoffs, conference championships, and the Super Bowl.

Regular season

During the regular season, each team plays 17 games with one bye week, facing opponents from within and outside their division. The regular season standings determine playoff seeding.

Postseason

The postseason includes twelve teams: the winners of each of the eight divisions and four wildcard teams (two from each conference). The playoffs culminate in the Super Bowl, where the champions of the National Football Conference (NFC) and the American Football Conference (AFC) compete for the championship.

List of seasons

Main article: List of NFL champions

The following is a brief overview of each NFL season:

• 1920 – The league is founded as the American Professional Football Association.
• 1921 – The APFA continues to grow, adding more teams.
• 1922 – The league is renamed the National Football League.
• 1923 – Teams begin to stabilize, and more structured schedules are adopted.
• 1924 – ...
• 2022 – The most recent completed season, culminating in Super Bowl LVI.
• 2023 – The current NFL season.

See also

• Super Bowl
• List of Super Bowl champions
• NFL Championship Game
• American Football League