Ranking the NFL’s Most Explosive Offenses for 2023: Best to Worst
The NFL has transformed into an offensive powerhouse, and there’s nothing quite as thrilling as witnessing a high-scoring offense in action. As we gear up for the 2023 NFL season, let’s take a closer look at the most explosive offenses, ranked from the best to the not-so-great.
1. Kansas City Chiefs
The dynamic duo of head coach Andy Reid and superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes continues to dazzle, leading the Chiefs to the top spot in points and yards last season, even after losing the explosive Tyreek Hill. This year, they face the challenge of replacing JuJu Smith-Schuster, but the Chiefs remain bullish with a young receiving corps featuring Kadarius Toney, Skyy Moore, and Rashee Rice. Having the legendary Travis Kelce at tight end and a strong running game led by Isiah Pacheco and Jerick McKinnon certainly doesn’t hurt. The Chiefs have also bolstered their offensive line by adding two standout tackles.
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2. Buffalo Bills
Despite losing offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, the Bills maintained their offensive prowess, securing the second spot in both points and yards last season. This speaks volumes about the growth of quarterback Josh Allen, who has become one of the game’s most dynamic and unique quarterbacks. Paired with elite receiver Stefon Diggs, the Bills boast a potent passing attack. Gabe Davis may not have taken the expected step forward, but the emergence of Trent Sherfield or rookie tight end Dalton Kincaid could provide the missing piece. With James Cook taking over for Devin Singletary in the backfield, the Bills look to keep their offensive fire burning.
3. Philadelphia Eagles
Jalen Hurts’s remarkable improvement catapulted the Eagles’ offense from 12th in points in 2021 to an impressive third-place finish last season. Hurts has a strong supporting cast, with Nick Sirianni calling plays, a stellar offensive line, and a talented receiving duo in A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. Dallas Goedert, a dependable tight end, anchors the middle, while a committee of running backs, including D’Andre Swift, Rashaad Penny, and Kenneth Gainwell, ensures a balanced ground game.
4. San Francisco 49ers
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The 49ers’ offense had a rollercoaster season in 2022, starting three different quarterbacks. Remarkably, seventh-round pick Brock Purdy won all seven games he started and finished, with the team scoring over 30 points in five of those matchups. If Purdy returns at full strength after elbow surgery, and with elite weapons like Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, and George Kittle in the mix, head coach Kyle Shanahan has the potential for a top-five offense if key players stay healthy.
5. Cincinnati Bengals
Cincinnati has proven its offensive prowess, finishing seventh in points for two consecutive years. Led by Joe Burrow and featuring a cast of talented playmakers like Joe Mixon, Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Tyler Boyd, the Bengals are set to dazzle once again. While they’ve experienced some changes on the periphery, their solid offensive line and the addition of left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. keep their floor high, especially if Burrow stays on the field for all 17 games.
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6. Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys boasted a top-five offense last season, but head coach Mike McCarthy has taken over play-calling duties for a potentially more conservative approach. Relying on Tony Pollard as the starting back could be beneficial if he remains healthy. The receiving corps, featuring Brandin Cooks, CeeDee Lamb, and Michael Gallup, has also received a boost. Improved offensive line health is crucial for Dak Prescott, who missed significant time early last season.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars
Under the guidance of former Eagles Super Bowl-winning coach Doug Pederson, the Jaguars’ offense underwent a remarkable transformation, jumping from last place in points in 2021 to a respectable 10th last season. With the addition of former Falcons star Calvin Ridley, Trevor Lawrence has an elite receiving corps at his disposal, including Christian Kirk, Zay Jones, and Evan Engram. The backfield is solid, with the return of Travis Etienne. The offensive line remains a question mark after losing key personnel.
8. Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers’ offense struggled last season, partially due to injuries. Justin Herbert, on the verge of becoming an elite quarterback, now has more weapons, with Quentin Johnston joining Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. Austin Ekeler provides versatility out of the backfield, and Kellen Moore’s play-calling could add creativity to the offense.
9. Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore’s offense declined over the past two seasons due to Lamar Jackson’s absence. However, the organization has made significant improvements by securing Jackson long-term, hiring innovative coordinator Todd Monken, and providing Jackson with top-tier receivers in Odell Beckham Jr. and Zay Flowers. With star tight end Mark Andrews and a healthier J.K. Dobbins, the Ravens are poised for a resurgence.
10. Seattle Seahawks
Despite Russell Wilson’s absence, Geno Smith’s performance exceeded expectations, propelling the Seahawks’ offense to a top-10 points finish for the fourth time in five years. The addition of first-round wideout Jaxon Smith-Njigba, alongside D.K. Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, bolsters the receiving corps. The return of Cam Akers boosts the running game, but Colt McCoy’s role as starting quarterback raises some doubts.
11. Detroit Lions
Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson’s stock is on the rise after orchestrating Detroit’s offensive improvement from 25th in 2021 to fifth in points last season. Johnson breathed new life into Jared Goff’s career, and the Lions added several offensive weapons, including David Montgomery, Jahmyr Gibbs, Marvin Jones Jr., and rookie Sam LaPorta. The team will need to navigate the suspension of Jameson Williams early in the season, but their elite offensive line remains a strength.
12. Miami Dolphins
Head coach Mike McDaniel and the addition of Tyreek Hill elevated the Dolphins’ offense from 22nd in points in 2021 to 11th last season. The offense’s success, however, hinges on Tua Tagovailoa’s durability. McDaniel’s creative run schemes, coupled with Hill and Jaylen Waddle’s speed, provide a strong foundation.
13. Minnesota Vikings
Despite losing veterans Dalvin Cook and Adam Thielen, the Vikings’ offense remained above average under new head coach Kevin O’Connell. The additions of tight end T.J. Hockenson and rookie receiver Jordan Addison offer promise. Kirk Cousins continues to excel at quarterback, with eight fourth-quarter comebacks last season.
14. New York Jets
Expectations are high for the Jets’ offense following the acquisition of Aaron Rodgers. The future Hall of Famer has a talented receiving corps, led by reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year Garrett Wilson. The return of former Packers receivers Allen Lazard and Randall Cobb provides even more firepower.
15. Cleveland Browns
The Browns’ offense is a wild card, contingent on Deshaun Watson’s resurgence. With elite weapons like Nick Chubb, Amari Cooper, and David Njoku, there are no excuses for a lack of improvement. However, Watson’s performance remains uncertain.
