Detroit Lions players model the team's new uniforms at Ford Field. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)
The offseason is a time for fresh starts in the NFL, and that includes new looks for some teams. This year, four franchises took the plunge and unveiled major uniform changes, sparking excitement and, of course, the inevitable social media scrutiny.
While some redesigns have been met with mixed reactions, overall, the new uniforms are a step up, embracing both classic elements and modern touches. Let’s rank the four teams that debuted new uniforms for the 2024 season:
4. Denver Broncos
Someone had to be at the bottom, and this year, it’s the Denver Broncos. However, let’s be clear: the new uniforms aren’t nearly as disastrous as the internet would have you believe. Compared to their previous look, worn since 1997 and widely considered one of the NFL’s worst, anything would have been an improvement.
The new design is clean and modern, but it lacks the wow factor of the other teams on this list. Once the initial shock wears off, they’ll likely become another solid, if unspectacular, uniform set.
The biggest missed opportunity? Not making their phenomenal 1977 throwbacks the permanent uniform.
3. Detroit Lions
The fact that the Detroit Lions are only third on this list speaks volumes about the quality of this year’s uniform redesigns. There’s very little to dislike about their new look, which is essentially a modernized version of their classic design. The new uniforms evoke memories of Barry Sanders dazzling on the field in the 1990s, a smart move for a franchise looking to reconnect with its storied past.
The addition of “Detroit” across the front of the away jerseys is a nice touch, adding a touch of civic pride. The Lions understood they didn’t need a complete overhaul, and their subtle updates have resulted in a clean, classic look.
The black and blue alternate uniforms are bold and will likely be a hit with fans. Overall, the Lions get high marks for their thoughtful approach, delivering a fresh take on a beloved classic.
2. New York Jets
The New York Jets hit a home run with their new uniforms, drawing inspiration from their iconic 1980s look. This era, featuring the famed “Sack Exchange” defense, holds a special place in Jets’ history, and the throwback design is a welcome return to form.
The Jets previously used this design as a throwback uniform, and its popularity clearly influenced their decision to make it permanent. This is a lesson for other teams: sometimes the best designs are the ones from the past.
While some fans might argue that the Jets’ best uniforms were the ones worn from 1998-2018, the new (old) look is a strong contender and a significant upgrade over their previous design.
1. Houston Texans
The Houston Texans take the crown for the best new uniforms of 2024. It’s a remarkable feat considering they don’t have the luxury of drawing on decades of history for inspiration. Despite this, the Texans managed to deliver a fresh and exciting new look that stands out from the crowd.
Every uniform combination is well-executed, but the standout is undoubtedly the dark blue alternate jersey with red numbers. It’s a bold, modern look that immediately becomes one of the best in the entire league.
The Texans’ new uniforms perfectly capture the energy of a franchise on the rise. They are a symbol of the team’s ambition and a sign of exciting things to come in Houston.
