Nike and the NFL released the Rivalries program on August 28, 2025, introducing alternate special uniforms to the eight teams in the NFC West and AFC East. The one-time-only designs, used in home divisional games, draw inspiration from local cultures, histories, and fan bases. According to a newly calculated measure of originality, thematic presentation, and overall impact—including innovation in design, cultural relevance, and beauty appeal—I've re-ranked them #8 (least interesting) to #1 (best). The update gives the highest priority to creative, fan-appreciative innovation and takes into account each uniform's ability to evolve from its team's identity.

 

 


 

#8: New York Jets - Gotham City Football Club

Jets' Empire Green jerseys have black, green, and gray trim in the Joe Namath cut, complete with textural graphs on chest and cap sleeves, and "grit and grind" remembering New York's "grit and grind." Gothic font numerals and "Gotham City Football" in the back neck add pizzazz. They'll be unveiled on December 7 vs. the Miami Dolphins, wearing green pants.

This falls to the bottom as the Gotham theme, although clever, doesn't quite fit and is frantic. The urgent graphics aren't able to quite deliver the dramatic, iconic pay-off, so it's the worst of an otherwise strong lineup.

#7: Los Angeles Rams - Midnight Mode

Midnight blue base with yellow pops, blue perforated lights at shoulders, pants, and numbers for an aglow effect, and white numbers. A nod to L.A. nightlife and the first local Super Bowl, with "Rams House" in the back neck. Showing November 16 vs. Seattle Seahawks with navy pants.

Too slippery but too conservative, this dark alternate does fit in with the herd, with too little cultural zing or flair to justify going further.

 

 

 

#6: Miami Dolphins - Dark Waters

Dark-pitch blue base and orange highlights, aqua iridescent highlights, and turbo green/orange striping on helmet, pants, and sleeves. Reflects dolphin speed and quick players, with "Go Fins!" in orange in the back neck. To unveil September 29 against the New York Jets with dark-pitch blue pants.

The aquatic look fits but refers back to old alternates without adding Miami's high-energy environment, placing it mid-to-low in the new order.

#5: San Francisco 49ers - For the Faithful

Black everything with red striping, gold trim, and saloon-style gold font numbers. Paying homage to Gold Rush heritage and Bay Area pride, with "Faithful" above numbers and "Faithful to the Bay" on the inside of the back neck. Debuts January 4, 2026, vs. Seattle Seahawks.

The classic nod tip and font rotation are good, but the plain black background prevents it from achieving higher ground in this competitive group.

 

 

 

#4: New England Patriots - Nor'Easter

Storm blue jerseys with reflective silver striping (similar to a lighthouse beam), red stars for New England states/Super Bowls, silver "NE" patch, and "We Are All Patriots" inside collar. Echoing regional fog and Bledsoe-era subtlety. Revealed November 13 vs. the New York Jets in silver pants.

Weather-inspired, thoughtful details imbue grit with contemporary reflectivity, taking a solid mid-tier spot.

#3: Buffalo Bills - Cold Front

All-white with silver accent, crystalized buffalo logo on sleeve, frosty textures, and "Bills Mafia" on the inside of the back of the neck. Eching snowy home games. World premiering October 5 against the New England Patriots in white pants.

The cold, fan-centric design is crisp and razor-sharp, right on Buffalo's brand and looking great in the top half.

 

 

 

#2: Arizona Cardinals - Built to Last

All-white with copper metallic numerals and stripes, sand/dust storm pattern, and redesigned state flag with copper trim on sleeve and reverse of collar. Symbolizing desert climate and copper heritage. Debuting for the first time on September 25 against the Seattle Seahawks in white legs.

Distressed and legendary, the copper raised details really bring Arizona to mind—aggressive and tough, just short of number one for reserve.

#1: Seattle Seahawks - High-Decibel Zone

Wolf gray base with navy pants, soundwave ripple effect on shoulders and stripes, "12" on back of neck, multiple "12s" repeated in numerals, and raindrop-like glow. A nod to the "12s" faithful and skyline. Falling Dec. 18 vs. the Los Angeles Rams.

This is #1 because of its groundbreaking soundwave design, deeply embedded in Seattle's ear-shattering fan culture, and fearless visuals. Contemporary, immersive, and flawlessly executed—it elevates the Rivalries program to new heights unlike any other.