# Seven teams face 0-3 hole

> Only seven NFL teams have ever made playoffs after 0-3 start.
- Title: Seven teams face 0-3 hole · NBC Sports | Shortify
- Summary: Only seven NFL teams have ever made playoffs after 0-3 start. Seven NFL teams face 0-3 start with only seven teams ever making playoffs after such a start.
- Keywords: nfl, playoffs, 0-3 start, texans, bills, chargers, buccaneers, commanders, dolphins, titans, lions, jets
- Source: NBC Sports — https://nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/seven-teams-face-an-0-3-hole-and-only-seven-0-3-teams-have-ever-made-the-playoffs
- Published: 2026-09-26T03:39:03.62+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: nfl, playoffs, 0-3 start, texans, bills, chargers, buccaneers, commanders, dolphins, titans, lions, jets
## Seven teams face 0-3 hole
Seven teams entered Week 3 at 0-2. One avoided 0-3 start while others must avoid three straight losses.
## Only seven teams made playoffs after 0-3 start
In NFL history, seven teams have made playoffs after starting 0-3: 2025 Texans, 2018 Texans, 1998 Bills, 1995 Lions, 1992 Chargers, 1982 Buccaneers, and 1981 Jets.
## Only 1992 Chargers made playoffs after 0-4 start
Only the 1992 Chargers made it to the postseason after starting 0-4.
## 0-3 teams have reduced margin for error
Teams starting 0-3 have less room for error over final 14 games due to being less competitive.
## Current 0-3 teams include dolphins
This year, teams starting 0-3 include dolphins, titans, chargers, commanders, and buccaneers.
## Key takeaway

Seven NFL teams face 0-3 start with only seven teams ever making playoffs after such a start.