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In the world of professional sports, losing streaks can be as memorable as winning ones, testing the patience of fans. In the NFL, where any team can win on any given Sunday, and where the level of competition is incredibly high, experiencing a losing streak can be particularly challenging. Here, we take a look at some of the longest losing streaks in NFL history, highlighting the teams that endured these difficult periods and how they eventually overcame them.
The Jacksonville Jaguars experienced a significant losing streak that spanned parts of the 2020 and 2021 seasons. After winning their first game of the 2020 season, the Jaguars went on to lose the next 15 games, finishing the season with a 1-15 record. The losing streak extended into the 2021 season, where they lost the first five games, bringing the total to 20 consecutive losses. The Jaguars’ struggles during this period were attributed to a combination of factors, including injuries, poor performance and a lack of cohesion within the team. The streak finally ended in Week 6 of the 2021 season with a victory over the Miami Dolphins in London.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers hold the second-longest losing streak in NFL history, with 26 consecutive losses. This streak began in 1976, during the Buccaneers’ inaugural season, and continued into the first 12 games of the 1977 season. As a new franchise, the Buccaneers faced significant challenges, including a lack of experienced players and difficulties in establishing a competitive team. Under head coach John McKay, the team struggled to find its footing, but they eventually broke the streak with a victory over the New Orleans Saints on December 11, 1977. Despite the rough start, the Buccaneers would later go on to build a successful franchise, winning multiple division titles and two Super Bowl championships.
The longest losing streak in NFL history belongs to the Chicago Cardinals, who lost 29 consecutive games between 1942 and 1945. The streak began on October 25, 1942, and lasted until September 30, 1945. This period was particularly challenging for the Cardinals, as it coincided with World War II, which saw many players leave to serve in the military. The depleted roster struggled to compete, and the team suffered loss after loss. The streak finally ended with a victory over the Chicago Bears.
When it comes to postseason struggles, the Detroit Lions hold the unfortunate record. The Lions had not won a playoff game for over three decades, from 1992 to 2023. This resulted in a nine-game postseason losing streak. Fortunately, the Lions’ run to the NFL Championship in 2024 put this stretch behind them.
Two teams in NFL history have endured the ignominy of finishing a season with a winless 0-16 record. The Detroit Lions were the first to achieve this dubious distinction in 2008. This performance led to significant changes within the organization, including the firing of head coach Rod Marinelli.
The Cleveland Browns matched this record in 2017, finishing the season without a win. The Browns’ struggles during this period were part of a broader pattern of underperformance, but the team has since made significant strides to improve. Under the guidance of new leadership, the Browns have worked to rebuild their roster and regain competitiveness.
Zach has been a published sports writer since 2018 specializing in college football & basketball, MLB and NFL content for multiple publications.