The NFL offseason is in full swing and with the 2025 NFL Draft behind us, there is a lull in the football calendar. While fans eagerly await the start of training camp, there is no better time to debate which division reigns supreme in the league. Recently, analyst Warren Sharp shared a statistic that sheds light on which division has been the best since 2020 – the AFC North.
Sharp’s stat reveals that the AFC North has been the top-performing division in the NFL since 2020. This may come as a surprise to some, as the AFC North is often overshadowed by other powerhouse divisions such as the NFC West or AFC East. However, when looking at the numbers, it’s clear that the AFC North has been dominating the league in recent years.
So, what makes the AFC North the best division in the NFL? Let’s take a closer look at the teams and their performances to find out.
First off, the AFC North is home to the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers have been a consistent force in the division, making the playoffs in four out of the last five seasons. Led by veteran quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, the Steelers have a strong offense and a tough defense, making them a formidable opponent for any team.
Next, we have the Baltimore Ravens, who have been a dominant force in the AFC North since their inception in 1996. Led by MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson, the Ravens have made the playoffs in three out of the last four seasons. Their high-powered offense and solid defense make them a tough team to beat.
The Cleveland Browns have also been a surprise contender in the AFC North in recent years. After years of struggling, the Browns finally turned things around in 2020, making the playoffs for the first time since 2002. With a talented roster and a new head coach in Kevin Stefanski, the Browns are poised to make a run for the division title in the upcoming season.
Last but not least, we have the Cincinnati Bengals, who may not have had the best record in recent years, but have shown signs of improvement. With a young and talented quarterback in Joe Burrow, the Bengals are a team to watch out for in the future. They may not be at the top of the division now, but they have the potential to shake things up in the coming years.
One of the main reasons why the AFC North has been the best division in the NFL since 2020 is the balance of power among its teams. Unlike other divisions where one or two teams dominate, the AFC North has a competitive landscape with all four teams capable of contending for the division title. This makes for exciting and unpredictable matchups, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Moreover, the AFC North has a reputation for physical and hard-hitting football. With teams like the Steelers and Ravens known for their tough defenses, the division is often considered the most physical in the league. This not only makes for entertaining games but also prepares the teams for the grueling postseason.
In addition to the on-field performances, the AFC North also boasts some of the most passionate and loyal fans in the league. The Steelers have the famous “Terrible Towels,” while the Ravens have their “Purple Rain” chants. The Browns and Bengals also have dedicated fan bases that support their teams through thick and thin. This kind of fan support adds to the overall atmosphere and competitiveness of the division.
In conclusion, the AFC North has been the best division in the NFL since 2020, and it’s not hard to see why. With a balance of power among its teams, physical and hard-hitting football, and passionate fan bases, the AFC North is a force to be reckoned with. As we eagerly await the start of the new season, there’s no doubt that the AFC North will continue to dominate and solidify its position as the best division in the league.
