The NFL has produced some legendary teams over its storied history. From dynasties that dominated for years to single-season squads that left an indelible mark, these teams exemplify greatness.
Here’s our ranking of the 15 best NFL teams of all time:
15. 2013 Seattle Seahawks
The Legion of Boom redefined defense in the modern NFL. Their 43-8 dismantling of the Broncos in Super Bowl XLVIII remains one of the most dominant championship performances ever.
14. 1991 Washington Football Team
Often overlooked, this team dominated on both sides of the ball. Plus, their +261-point differential was among the best in history, capped by a Super Bowl victory.
13. 1989 San Francisco 49ers
Joe Montana and Jerry Rice at their peak — need we say more?! The ’89 49ers crushed opponents, including a 55-10 demolition of the Broncos in Super Bowl XXIV.
12. 1966 Green Bay Packers
Vince Lombardi’s Packers won the first-ever Super Bowl, which cemented them forever in NFL history. They combined old-school toughness with precision execution.
11. 2004 New England Patriots
This team capped a run of three Super Bowl wins in four years. Tom Brady’s clutch play and a stifling defense made them a dynasty.
10. 1986 New York Giants
Lawrence Taylor dominated as the Giants’ defense crushed opponents. They steamrolled through the playoffs en route to their first Super Bowl title.
9. 1976 Oakland Raiders
Known for their physicality and swagger, the ’76 Raiders finally claimed a Super Bowl after years of close calls.
8. 1999 St. Louis Rams
Simply put, the “Greatest Show on Turf” redefined offense. Not to mention, Kurt Warner’s MVP season culminated in a thrilling Super Bowl win.
7. 1994 San Francisco 49ers
Steve Young stepped out of Joe Montana’s shadow and led a loaded team to a dominant Super Bowl win over the Chargers.
6. 1978 Pittsburgh Steelers
Arguably the best of the Steelers’ dynasty teams, they combined Terry Bradshaw’s offense with a legendary defense.
5. 2007 New England Patriots
Despite their Super Bowl loss to the Giants, this team’s unprecedented regular-season dominance remains unmatched.
Read More: The 20 Most Memorable Super Bowl Moments in History
4. 1993 Dallas Cowboys
With their core players in their prime, the Dallas Cowboys cemented their dynasty with a repeat Super Bowl win.
Read More: Ranking the 15 Best Defensive Teams in NFL History
3. 1985 Chicago Bears
The 1985 Chicago Bears had one of the most feared defenses in history. Their swagger and dominance culminated in a 46-10 rout in Super Bowl XX.
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2. 1984 San Francisco 49ers
This team combined Joe Montana’s brilliance with a suffocating defense. Not to mention, they breezed to a Super Bowl victory, outscoring playoff opponents 82-26.
Read More: Ranking the 10 Best NFL Teams of the 1980s
1. 1972 Miami Dolphins
The 1972 Miami Dolphins are the only team to achieve perfection in NFL history. With a balanced offense and the “No-Name Defense,” their legacy remains unparalleled.
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