Current Super Bowl Odds 2021

Super Bowl LIV set up as a battle between the two legitimately top squads from each conference, a true battle of the Irresistible Force (Chiefs offense) and the Immovable Object (49ers defense). The game essentially lived up to every ounce of its expectations. Ultimately Kansas City’s firepower and an elevated performance from its own defense were enough to get past a suddenly mistake-prone San Francisco squad in the second half.

The tightly contested battle was a fitting cap on an exciting 2019-20 NFL season. The league will now take a step back from the spotlight over the next several months – save for brief interludes such as free agency and the NFL Draft – until training camps kick off in late July.

As was the case throughout the past season, this page will once again serve as a hub of NFL betting-related information each week throughout the 2020 NFL season and postseason. That will include the latest odds from leading regulated sportsbooks for every game, as well as a detailed betting breakdown for each contest.

The Big Game’s final gun doesn’t equate to an absence of betting opportunities, however. The sun never sets in the NFL betting landscape. Accordingly, there are 2021 Super Bowl Champion futures available at all regulated sportsbooks. The just-crowned Chiefs naturally opened as the odds-on favorite (+600) at FanDuel Sportsbook. The runner-up 49ers aren’t second in this instance, however. Another AFC squad, one that many assumed would be the conference’s representative in SB LIV holds that distinction – the Baltimore Ravens checked in just behind Kansas City at +700.

Super Bowl 2021 betting odds

NFL offseason breakdowns for 2020-21

With free agency now underway, here’s a snapshot of where all 32 teams currently stand.

AFC East

New England Patriots

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +1400; Currently +1800
Franchise tag: Joe Thuney, OG
Key trade departure: Duron Harmon, S (to DET)
Key re-signings: Devin McCourty, CB (two years, $23 million); Matthew Slater, WR (two years, $5.3 million); Shilique Calhoun, LB
Key free agent losses: Tom Brady, QB (to TB); Kyle Van Noy, LB (to MIA); Jamie Collins, LB (to DET); Danny Shelton, DT (to DET); Elandon Roberts, LB (to MIA); Ted Karras, C (to DET); Nate Ebner, S (to NYG); Phillip Dorsett, WR (to SEA)
Key free-agent signings: Damiere Byrd, WR (from ARI); Beau Allen, DT (from TB); Adrian Phillips, S (from LAC); Brandon Copeland, DE (from NYJ); Brian Hoyer, QB (from IND)

Naturally, the one and only story here is really Tom Brady’s exit from New England after 20 stellar seasons. The Patriots’ futures odds haven’t actually taken a massive hit yet, but what Bill Belichick and company do at the quarterback position in the coming days, weeks or months will undoubtedly be the biggest needle-mover. The losses of Van Noy and Collins may also be understandably overlooked due to the Brady departure, but those could well be key to the team’s fortunes next season.

The signing of Phillips, who has 26 career starts, could prove to be the classic case of a veteran coming to New England and outplaying his contract in Belichick’s scheme.

Buffalo Bills

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +3500; Currently +2800
Key trade acquisition: Stefon Diggs (from MIN)
Key re-signings: Quinton Spain, OG (three years, $15 million); Dean Marlowe, S (terms undisclosed); Isaiah McKenzie, WR (terms undisclosed)
Key free agent losses: Shaq Lawson, LB (to Dolphins); Jordan Phillips, DT (to Cardinals); Kevin Johnson, CB (to CLE);
Key free-agent signings: Mario Addison, LB (from CAR); A.J. Klein (from NO); Tyler Matakevich, LB (from PIT); Josh Norman, CB (from WAS); Vernon Butler, DT (from CAR); Quinton Jefferson, DE (from SEA); Taiwan Jones, RB (from HOU); Daryl Williams, OT (from CAR)

Buffalo has taken a nice leap up with the arrival of Diggs — who’ll be an integral part of an excellent top trio of pass catchers for surging QB Josh Allen  — and multiple mid-tier-type early free-agent signings. A case could actually be made for Addison being a notch higher than that, considering he has no less than nine sacks in any of the last four seasons. His arrival, as well as that of Butler, Jefferson and Klein — the latter who’s familiar with coach Sean McDermott from their time together in Carolina — helps offset the losses of Lawson and Phillips. Then, if Norman can return to anywhere the caliber of corner he once was, the defense could take the short leap remaining to elite.

New York Jets

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +7000; Currently +7000
Key re-signings: Neville Hewitt, LB (one year, $2 million); Arthur Maulet, CB (one year); Jordan Jenkins, LB (one year, $5 million); James Burgess, LB (one year); Bennett Jackson, CB (terms undisclosed); David Fales, QB (one year)
Key free agent losses: Maurice Canady, CB (to DAL); Tom Compton, G (to SF); Brandon Shell, OT (to SEA); Brandon Copeland, DE (to NE); Brent Qvale, OT (to HOU); Robby Anderson, WR (to CAR); Daryl Roberts, CB (to DET)
Key free-agent signings: George Fant, OT (from SEA); Connor McGovern, C (from DEN); Pierre Desir, CB (from IND); Greg Van Roten, OG (from CAR); Marqui Christian, S (from LAR); Josh Andrews, OG (from IND); Breshad Perriman, NYJ (from TAM); Patrick Onwuasor, LB (from BAL)

The Jets’ first two moves go a long way to shoring up an offensive line that helped make RB Le’Veon Bell’s first season in New York a nightmare by failing miserably in opening up running lanes, and that at allowed 52 sacks overall during the 2019 campaign. Gang Green still has plenty of cap room available for more moves as well; however, it bears noting that even with Tom Brady now having departed the division, the aggressive moves by the Bills and Dolphins — and the fact the Patriots are still the Patriots — still leaves New York in an uphill battle for the moment.

Miami Dolphins

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +10000; Currently +8000
Key re-signing: Adrian Colbert, S (one year, $1.8 million)
Key free agent losses: Evan Brown, C (to CLE)
Key free-agent signings: Byron Jones, CB (from DAL); Kyle Van Noy, LB (from NE); Emmanuel Ogbah, DE (from KC); Shaq Lawson, DE (from BUF); Ereck Flowers, OG (from WAS); Clayton Fejedelem, S (from CIN); Jordan Howard, RB (from PHI); Kamu Grugier-Hill, LB (from PHI); Elandon Roberts, LB (from NE)

The Dolphins, flush with cap room, unsurprisingly opened the legal tampering period in a full-on sprint. As the avalanche names above indicates, Miami is sparing no expense and has seemingly given both sides of the ball — and their futures — a notable upgrade already. That’s particularly true on defense, where coach Brian Flores’ squad will boast a pair of shutdown corners in Xavien Howard and Jones. The front seven also sees a big talent infusion with Van Noy, Ogbah, Lawson and Grugier-Hill, while Howard could prove to be the workhorse back offensive coordinator Chan Gailey has often succeeded with in the power ground attack he favors.

ALSO READ: How Tom Brady’s Decision To Sign With The Bucs Is Impacting Betting Odds

AFC South

Houston Texans

Super Bowl 55 odds: Currently +5000
Key re-signings: Ka’imi Fairbairn, K (four years, $17.6 million); Darren Fells, TE (two years, $7 million); A.J. McCarron, QB (one year, $4 million); Bradley Roby, CB (three years, $36 million); Roderick Johnson, OT (one year, $1.75 million); Vernon Hargreaves, CB (one year, $1.3 million); Tyrell Adams, LB (one year, $970,000)
Key trade acquisition: RB David Johnson (from ARI); Brandin Cooks (from LAR)
Key trade departure: WR DeAndre Hopkins (to ARI)
Key free agent losses: D.J. Reader, DT (to CIN); Taiwan Jones, RB (to BUF); Barkevious Mingo, LB (to CHI)
Key free-agent signings: Randall Cobb, WR (from DAL); Eric Murray, S (from CLE); Jaylen Watkins, CB (from LAC); Brent Qvale, OT (from NYJ); Timmy Jernigan, DT (from PHI)

The Texans have been busy, but one move, which doesn’t necessarily reflect well on coach/GM Bill O’Brien, overshadows the rest. The Hopkins-Johnson trade, which also includes some draft-pick swaps, has been widely panned with respect to the Houston end of the deal. Whether Johnson proves capable of capitalizing on a fresh start and comes anywhere close to resembling the back he was back in 2016 should have plenty of impact on the team’s 2020 fortunes. The signings of Cobb and Murray are solid, but with plenty of teams projected above them in the AFC alone, the Texans’ futures odds remain steep.

Tennessee Titans

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +2200; Currently +3000
Franchise tag: Derrick Henry, RB
Key re-signings: Ryan Tannehill, QB (four years, $118 million); Dennis Kelly, OT (three years, $21 million); MyCole Pruitt, TE (one year, $2.5 million); Chris Milton, CB (one year, $1 million); Kamalei Correa, LB (one year, $3.5 million)
Key free agent losses: Jack Conklin, OT (to CLE); Marcus Mariota, QB (to LV); Dion Lewis, RB (released, subsequently signed by NYG); Tajae Sharpe, WR (to MIN); LeShaun Sims, CB (to CIN); Austin Johnson, DT (to NYG); Darius Jennings, WR (to LAC)
Key free-agent signings: Vic Beasley, DE (from ATL); Ty Sambrailo, OG (from ATL); Nick Dzubnar, LB (from LAC); Jack Crawford, DT (from ATL)

Keeping Tannehill in the fold is the big catch here for the Titans after he proved to be an excellent fit for the team’s offensive system during an improbable second-half/postseason run last season. The loss of Conklin is important, but the Titans somewhat surprisingly prioritized re-signing fellow bookend Kelly, who’s three years older. Beasley could help make an already aggressive defense even better if he can approximate his production from his solid 2019 contract year, at minimum.

Indianapolis Colts

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +4000; Currently +2800
Key re-signings: Anthony Castonzo, OT (two years, $33 million); Le’Raven Clark, OT (terms undisclosed)
Key trade acquisition: DeForest Buckner, DT (from 49ers)
Key free agent losses: Joe Haeg, OG (to TB); Eric Ebron, TE (to PIT); Pierre Desir, CB (released, subsequently signed by NYJ); Josh Andrews, OG (to NYJ); Brian Hoyer, QB (to NE); Devin Funchess, WR (to GB); Trevon Coley, DT (to ARI)
Key free-agent signings: Philip Rivers, QB (from LAC); Sheldon Day, DT (from SF); Xavier Rhodes, CB (released by MIN); Travis Carrie, CB (from CLE)

A quarterback also takes center stage here, with Rivers coming in on an all-in one-year, $25 million contract. Whether the 38-year-old can prove last season’s 29-interception nightmare was an outlier likely determines the Colts’ championship chances next season, even though Jacoby Brissett may be the league’s best second-string quarterback and remains under contract for 2020. The trade for Buckner may go somewhat overshadowed by the Rivers acquisition, but the 26-year-old could make an already playoff-caliber defense a Super Bowl-worthy one.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +8000; Currently +15000
Franchise tag: Yannick Ngakoue, DE
Key re-signing: Tyler Shatley, OG (one year, $1.5 million); Terry Godwin, WR (terms undisclosed)
Key trade departures: A.J. Bouye, CB (to DEN); Calais Campbell, DE (to BAL); Nick Foles, QB (to CHI)
Key free agent losses: Cedric Ogbuehi, OT (to SEA); Seth Devalve, TE (to CAR); Nick O’Leary, TE (to LVR)
Key free-agent signings: Joe Schobert, LB (from CLE); Rodney Gunter, DE (from ARI); Tyler Eifert, TE (from CIN); Al Woods, DT (from SEA); Rashaan Melvin, CB (from DET); Cassius Marsh, DE (from ARI)

The Jags were in sell mode on defense early, getting rid of a pair of cornerstones in Bouye and Campbell. However, the franchising of Ngakoue and the snagging of the ultra-productive Schobert from the Browns speaks to the fact Jacksonville isn’t tanking outright by any means. Jacksonville has also reportedly turned down multiple trade offers for QB Nick Foles, as it appears the veteran will have a chance to reclaim his starting job outright from Gardner Minshew next summer (UPDATE 3/18: The Jags have traded Foles to the Bears). Jacksonville ranks in the bottom half of the league in cap space as free agency officially begins, however, and that, coupled with the strength of the rest of the conference, currently has them saddled with long odds.

AFC North

Baltimore Ravens

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +800; Currently +700
Franchise tag: Matt Judon, LB
Key re-signings: Jihad Ward, DT (one year); Jimmy Smith, CB (one year, $6 million); Anthony Levine, S (one year); Chris Moore, WR (terms undisclosed)
Key trade acquisition: Calais Campbell, DE (from JAC)
Key trade departure: Hayden Hurst, TE (to ATL)
Key restricted free agent tender: Matt Skura, C (original first-round tender)
Key free agent losses: Seth Roberts, WR (to CAR); Michael Pierce, DT (to MIN); Patrick Onwuasor, LB (to NYJ); Josh Bynes, LB (to CIN)
Key free-agent signings: Derek Wolfe, DE (from DEN)

The Ravens already have pulled off a noteworthy trade by getting Campbell from the Jaguars, while the jettisoning of Hurst to the Falcons helped unclog a logjam at the tight end position and netted Baltimore a valuable second-round pick (as well as a fifth rounder) in this year’s draft. Keeping Judon in the fold via the franchise tag and signing Brockers in free agency helps keep an already formidable defense strong. Without even factoring in any forthcoming additions to an explosive offense, the Ravens are already trending upward in their futures.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +2200; Currently +2800
Franchise tag: Bud Dupree, LB
Key re-signing: Jordan Dangerfield, S (one year)
Key free agent losses: Javon Hargrave, DT (to PHI); Tyler Matakevich, LB (to BUF); B.J. Finney, OG (to SEA); Sean Davis, CB (to WAS); Nick Vannett, TE (to DEN); Artie Burns, CB (to CHI)
Key free agent signings: Derek Watt, FB (from LAC); Eric Ebron, TE (from IND); Stefan Wisniewski, C (from KC)

The Steelers have been feverishly restructuring contracts to create cap room that will allow them to conduct some offseason business. The retaining of Dupree via the franchise tag was crucial after the 27-year-old put together a career year in 2019, but losing Hargrave, a stalwart of the defensive line, will hurt. For the time being, Pittsburgh’s futures have taken a plummet, even with old nemesis Tom Brady out of the conference; however, continued indications Ben Roethlisberger is ready to return at full strength and other moves via free agency and the draft could move the needle as the months unfold.

The arrival of Ebron on a two-year deal doesn’t budge the Steelers’ futures odds for the moment, but it does fill an area of need for the Steelers. The red-zone-savvy veteran will presumably team with the athletic but oft-injured Vance McDonald to give a presumably healthy Roethlisberger a pair of dangerous targets down the seam.

Cleveland Browns

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +3300; Currently +3300
Key restricted free agent tender: Kareem Hunt, RB (second-round tender)
Key free agent losses: Eric Murray, S (to HOU); Christian Kirksey, LB (to GB); Juston Burris, CB (to CAR); Demetrius Harris, TE (to CHI); Joe Schobert, LB (to JAC); Eric Kush, OG (to LVR); Justin McCray, OG (to ATL); Travis Carrie, CB (to IND); Damarious Randall, CB (to LVR); Ricky Seals-Jones, TE (from CLE)
Key free-agent signings: Jack Conklin, OT (from TEN); Austin Hooper, TE (from ATL); Case Keenum, QB (from WAS); Andrew Billings, DT (from CIN); B.J. Goodson, LB (from GB); Karl Joseph, S (to LV); Kevin Johnson, CB (from BUF); Andrew Sendejo, S (from MIN); Jojo Natson, WR (from LAR); Donovan Olumba, CB (from DAL); Evan Brown, C (from MIA)

The Browns clearly liked what they saw from Kareem Hunt in the latter portion of the 2019 season to place the second-round tender on him, while the additions of Conklin and Hooper adds even more talent to an offense already flush with big names. However, the defense has taken some significant personnel hits early in free agency that will have to be atoned for in some form. Additionally, the reportedly shaky status of WR Odell Beckham, Jr. represents a big question mark at this point in the offseason.

Cincinnati Bengals

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +10000; Currently +10000
Franchise tag: A.J. Green, WR
Key re-signings: Torry McTyer, CB (one year); Greg Mabin, CB
Key free agent losses: Clayton Fejedelum, S (to MIA); Darqueze Dennard, CB (to JAC); Andrew Billings, DT (to CLE); John Miller, OG (to CAR); Tony McCrae, CB (to DET); Nick Vigil, LB (to LAC); Tyler Eifert, TE (to JAC); LaRoy Reynolds, LB (to ATL)
Key free-agent signings: D.J. Reader, DT (from HOU); Trae Waynes, CB (from MIN); Xavier Su’a-Filo, OG (from DAL); Vonn Bell, S (from NO); Mackensie Alexander, CB (from MIN); Mike Thomas, WR (from LAR); Josh Bynes, LB (from BAL); LeShaun Sims, CB (from TEN)

The Bengals have focused on defense earlier and the additions of Reader and Waynes could certainly be impactful. Cincinnati also has a favorable situation with Green, who has openly expressed a desire to remain with the team for the remainder of the career and therefore does not mind receiving the franchise tag for the time being. If the multi-time Pro Bowler can get his ailing ankle back to full health, he’ll be poised to serve as a lethal weapon for likely No. 1 overall pick Joe Burrow. However, given the multitude of formidable teams ahead of them, Cincy, along with Jacksonville is still bringing up the rear in terms of SB LV futures in the AFC.

AFC West

Kansas City Chiefs

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +600; Currently +600
Franchise tag: Chris Jones, DT
Key re-signings: RB Damien Williams (2020 team option of $2.3 million picked up); Anthony Sherman, FB (one year); Mike Pennel, DE (one year); DeMarcus Robinson, WR (one year, $2.3 million)
Key free agent losses: Kendall Fuller, CB (to WAS); Emmanuel Ogbah, LB (to MIA); Stefan Wisniewski, C (to PIT); Jordan Lucas, S (to CHI); Blake Bell, TE (to DAL); Reggie Ragland, LB (to DET)
Key free-agent signings: Mike Remmers, OT (from NYG); Antonio Hamilton, CB (from NYG); Jordan Ta’amu, QB (from XFL); Ricky Seals-Jones, TE (from CLE); DeAndre Washington, RB (from LVR)

The Super Bowl champs already clearly have a pretty formidable squad on both sides of the ball and rightfully remain the odds-on favorites as free agency begins. KC took care of two very important pieces of business in terms of maintaining continuity by ensuring both Williams and Jones will be part of the team’s push for a repeat. Fuller and Ogbah are two solid defensive players the team ideally would have kept, but neither was a starter.

Las Vegas Raiders

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +7000; Currently +5000
Key re-signings: Rod Smith, RB (one year); Kyle Wilber, LB (terms undisclosed); Jordan Devey, OG (terms undisclosed)
Key free agent losses: Karl Joseph, S (to CLE); Tahir Whitehead, LB (to CAR); Eric Tomlinson, TE (to NYG); Benson Mayowa, DE (to SEA); DeAndre Washington, RB (to KC)
Key free-agent signings: Cory Littleton, LB (from LAR); Nick Kwiatkoski, LB (from CHI); Marcus Mariota, QB (from TEN); Jason Witten, TE (from DAL); Jeff Heath, S (from DAL); Maliek Collins, DT (from DAL); DE/LB Carl Nassib (from TB); Nick O’Leary, TE (from JAC); Nelson Agholor, WR (from PHI); Eric Kush, OG (from CLE); Daniel Ross, DT (from DAL); Damarious Randall (from CLE)

The Raiders have seen a nice bump in their futures after trailing only the Dolphins in activity over the legal tampering period. Las Vegas raided the Cowboys’ free-agent shelf with some interesting pick-ups and also plucked one of the true up-and-coming  defensive players on the open market in Kwiatkoski, who the Bears surprisingly opted to let loose. The signings of Mariota and Witten are eyebrow-raisers to an extent, but Littleton is a disruptive playmaker just entering his prime at 26 and sporting a resume that includes 259 tackles, 7.5 sacks, five interceptions and 22 defensed passes over the last two seasons alone.

UPDATE 3/22: The Raiders’ relentless wave of signings continued Saturday with a pair of acquisitions on the offensive side of the ball. O’Leary is the much lower-profile arrival of the two, as he seemingly joins a cast of thousands at tight end that also includes the legendary Jason Witten and 2019 breakout star Darren Waller. However, O’Leary is an underrated receiver who has a knack for getting open and could contribute as a blocker. Meanwhile, Agholor is a much more prominent piece that could certainly upgrade the Raiders’ air attack — likely out of the slot — if he can enjoy a resurgence during his one-year, prove-it deal.

Denver Broncos

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +5000; Currently +4000
Franchise tag: Justin Simmons, S
Key re-signings: Joe Jones, LB (one year); Jeremiah Attaochu, LB (one year, $1.5 million); Joel Heath, DT (terms undisclosed); Shelby Harris, DT (one year, $3.25 million)
Key trade acquisition: A.J. Bouye, CB (from JAC)
Key free agent losses: Connor McGovern, C (to NYJ); Chris Harris, CB (to LAC); Will Parks, CB (to PHI); Derek Wolfe, DE (to BAL); Casey Kreieter, LS (to NYG)
Key free-agent signings: Jeff Driskel, QB (from DET); Graham Glasgow, OG (from DET); Melvin Gordon, RB (from LAC); Nick Vannett, TE (from PIT); Sam Martin, P (from DET)

The Broncos have opted to part ways with Pro Bowl cornerback Chris Harris, but they found a younger and comparable replacement in Bouye. Retaining Simmons and and acquiring Glasgow are important, and Denver should still have enough cap space to do some shopping on the open market ahead of the draft. As is, Denver has already seen a bump from its opening odds.

UPDATE 3/20: Gordon’s arrival is certainly intriguing, considering Denver already has an effective backfield tandem in Phillip Lindsay and Royce Freeman. Early word is that Gordon and Lindsay will work in a fairly even platoon, one that could well resemble the one the former had with Austin Ekeler over the last pair of seasons with the Chargers.

Los Angeles Chargers

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +5000; Currently +5000
Franchise tag: Hunter Henry, TE
Key re-signing: Austin Ekeler, RB (four years, $24.5 million)
Key trade acquisition: Trai Turner, OG (from CAR)
Key trade departure: Russell Okung, OT (to CAR)
Key free agent losses: Philip Rivers, QB (to IND); Thomas Davis, LB (to WAS); Derek Watt, FB (to PIT); Melvin Gordon, RB (to DEN); Adrian Phillips, S (to NE); Jaylen Watkins, CB (to HOU); Jatavis Brown, LB (to PHI); Nick Dzubnar, LB (to TEN); Travis Benjamin, WR (to SF); Geremy Davis, WR (to DET)
Key free-agent signings: Bryan Bulaga, OT (from GB); Chris Harris, CB (from DEN); Linval Joseph, DT (from MIN); Nick Vigil, LB (from CIN); Darius Jennings, WR (from TEN)

The Chargers have done a bit of everything early — using their franchise tag, re-signing a key impending free agent, making a trade and both losing and gaining players via free agency. Retaining Henry and Ekeler is undeniably a plus, and the Bolts are replacing Okung directly with Bulaga but also gain an outstanding Pro Bowl guard in Turner. The Rivers departure was a foregone conclusion as well; however, it does leave the team with a major question mark at quarterback, where journeyman Tyrod Taylor currently projects as the starter.

UPDATE 3/18: The signing of Harris gives the Chargers an elite trio of cornerbacks when considering Casey Heyward and Desmond King are already on the roster. However, the futures number remains unchanged after his signing.

NFC East

Dallas Cowboys

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +2000; Currently +2000
Franchise tag: Dak Prescott, QB
Key re-signings: Amari Cooper, WR (five years, $100 million); Blake Jarwin, TE (three years, $24.25 million); Kai Forbath, K (one year); Anthony Brown, CB (three years, $15.5 million); C.J. Goodwin, CB (one year, $1 million); Joe Thomas, LB (one year); Justin March, LB (one year)
Key free agent losses: Randall Cobb, WR (to HOU); Byron Jones, CB (to MIA); Robert Quinn, DE (to CHI); Jason Witten, TE (to LV); Jeff Heath, S (to LV); Maliek Collins, DT (to LV); Xavier Su’a-Filo, OG (to CIN); Cameron Fleming, OG (to NYG); Donovan Olumba, CB (to CLE); Kerry Hyder, LB (to SF); Daniel Ross, DT (to LVR)
Key free agent signings: Gerald McCoy, DT (from CAR); Maurice Canady, CB (from NYJ); HaHa Clinton-Dix, S (from CHI); Dontari Poe, DT (from CAR); Blake Bell, TE (from KC); Greg Zuerlein, K (from LAR)

The Cowboys have been busy bees over the legal tampering period, and although the names they retained are undoubtedly vital, the net effect of their losses will also likely prove significant. Holding on to Cooper was especially a coup, considering it’s been widely reported he turned down significantly more money from the Redskins. Jarwin is also an emerging star who will no longer have Witten standing in his way, but Jones, Quinn, Heath and Collins were all important components of the defense. The departure of Cobb is also interesting considering he was solid in 2019 and also would have had another opportunity play for head coach Mike McCarthy had he stayed.

The addition of multi-time Pro Bowler McCoy could be one of the more prudent moves of the offseason if he’s healthy and ready to contribute.

Philadelphia Eagles

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +1700; Currently +1600
Key re-signings: Nate Sudfeld, QB (one year, $2 million); Rodney McLeod, S (two years)
Key trade acquisition: Darius Slay, CB (from DET)
Key free agent losses: Halapoulivaati Vaitai, OL (to DET); Kamu Grieger-Hill, LB (to MIA); Jordan Howard, RB (to MIA); Malcolm Jenkins, S (to NO); Nelson Agholor, WR (to LVR); Richard Rodgers, TE (to WAS); Ronald Darby, CB (to WAS); Timmy Jernigan, DT (to HOU)
Key free-agent signings: Javon Hargrave, DT (from PIT); Will Parks, DB (from DEN); Jatavis Brown, LB (from LAC); Nickell Robey-Coleman, CB (from LAR)

The Eagles have had a slight dip in futures but have a long way to go this offseason, and the signing of Hargrave represents a very promising start to free agency. Grieger-Hill and Vaitai were solid but not irreplaceable players. Meanwhile, Howard was considered a likely goner as soon as the offseason began. Philadelphia still ranks in the top half of the league in salary cap room. As such, they’ll likely be conducting more business in the coming days and weeks.

The release of Jenkins was a bit unexpected and removes a key figure on both the field and locker room. The Eagles’ futures remained unchanged in the immediate wake of the move.

Slay’s arrival helps reinforce the secondary after Jenkins’ departure, and the veteran corner could potentially be revitalized while playing for a contender after years of frustration in Detroit.

New York Giants

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +6600; Currently +6600
Franchise tag: Leonard Williams, DT
Key re-signing: Corey Coleman, WR (terms undisclosed)
Key free agent losses: Mike Remmers, OT (to KC); Antonio Hamilton, CB (to KC); Cody Latimer, WR (to WAS)
Key free-agent signings: James Bradberry, CB (from CAR); Blake Martinez, LB (from GB); Kyle Fackrell, LB (from GB); Levine Toilolo, TE (from SF); Cameron Fleming, OG (from DAL); Nate Ebner, S (from NE); Colt McCoy, QB (from WAS); Dion Lewis, RB (released by TEN); Eric Tomlinson, TE (from LVR); Austin Johnson, DT (from TEN); Casey Kreiter, LS (from DEN)

After some apparent indecision early in the offseason, the Giants opted to franchise Williams in order to buy some time to work out a long-term contract with the run-stopping tackle. The scoring of Bradberry and Martinez are impressive moves that bring a much-needed talent infusion to a defense that was downright awful at times last season. Given New York still has plenty of cap room to work with even after their initial trio of signings, they’re very likely not done with their offseason shopping. 

Washington Redskins

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +10000; Currently +10000
Franchise tag: Brandon Scherff, OG
Key re-signing: Nate Orchard, CB (one year); Caleb Brantley, DE (terms not disclosed)
Key trade acquisition: Kyle Allen, QB (from CAR)
Key free agent losses: Ereck Flowers, OG (to MIA); Case Keenum, QB (to CLE); Josh Norman, CB (to BUF); Colt McCoy, QB (to NYG); Michael Burton, FB (to NO); Jeremy Vujnovich, OG (to ARI)
Key free-agent signings: Kendall Fuller, CB (from KC); Wes Schweitzer, OG (from ATL); Kevin Pierre-Louis, LB (from CHI); Thomas Davis, LB (from LAC); Sean Davis, S (from PIT); J.D. McKissic, RB (from DET); Logan Thomas, TE (from DET); Cornelius Lucas, OT (from CHI); Marcus Baugh, TE (from CAR); Peyton Barber, RB (from TB); Richard Rodgers, TE (from PHI); Cody Latimer, WR (from NYG); Ronald Darby, CB (from PHI)

The Redskins came into the legal tampering period ready to do business and got right to work. They missed out on what would have been the crown jewel of their free-agent haul when Amari Cooper turned down a reportedly more lucrative offer from Washington to return to the Cowboys. The ‘Skins didn’t seem to miss on any other targets, though, and also ensured the retention of Scherff as an important piece to help protect presumed 2020 starter Dwayne Haskins. While the presence of head coach Ron Rivera certainly brightens the Redskins’ outlook over the long term, they’re still cellar dwellers in the NFC in terms of futures odds.

NFC South

New Orleans Saints

Super Bowl 55 odds: Currently +1400
Key restricted free agent tender: Taysom Hill, QB (first-round tender)
Key re-signings: Drew Brees, QB (two years, $50 million); David Onyemata, DT (three years, $27 million); Andrus Peat, OG (five years, $57.5 million); Justin Hardee, CB (one year); D.J. Swearinger, S (one year, $1.1. million); Noah Spence, DE (one year, $910K); P.J. Williams, CB (one year, $2 million); Cameron Tom, OG (terms undisclosed)
Key free agent losses: A.J. Klein, LB (to BUF); Teddy Bridgewater, QB (to CAR); Keith Kirkwood, WR (to CAR); Vonn Bell, S (to CIN)
Key free-agent signings: Malcolm Jenkins, S (from PHI); Michael Burton, FB (from WAS)

There was never much suspense surrounding Brees’ return, but it’s nevertheless comforting for Saints fans to see him lock in for another two seasons. Onyemata is an unsung piece of the defensive line, and New Orleans opted to let Bridgewater walk as soon as it became evident he’d command a sizable contract on the open market. Retaining the highly versatile Hill instead became the team’s priority, and he could certainly have an expanded role all over the offense as New Orleans makes another championship push in 2020.

Peat’s re-signing is huge for offensive-line continuity and integral to making the latest investment in Brees pay off.

Atlanta Falcons

Super Bowl 55 odds: Currently +4000
Key re-signings: Tyeler Davison, DT (three years, $12 million); Sharrod Neasman, S (one year); Blidi Wreh-Wilson, CB (one year, $1.2 million); John Wetzel, OG (one year, $930,000)
Key trade acquisition: Hayden Hurst, TE (from BAL)
Key free agent losses: Austin Hooper, TE (to CLE); Wes Schweitzer, OG (to WAS); Vic Beasley, DE (to TEN); Desmond Trufant, CB (to DET); De’Vondre Campbell, LB (to ARI); Ty Sambrailo, OG (to TEN); Jack Crawford, DT (to TEN)
Key free-agent signings: Dante Fowler Jr., LB (from LAR); Todd Gurley, RB (released by LAR); Laquon Treadwell, WR (from MIN); Justin McCray, OG (from CLE); LaRoy Reynolds, LB (from CIN)

Getting Hurst from the Ravens could cushion the loss of Hooper more than might be evident at first glance. The 26-year-old could be a breakout candidate after posting a solid 30-349-2 line in 2019 despite position mate Mark Andrews enjoying a career season. The loss of Schweitzer and Beasley could come back to bite Atlanta on either side of the ball, however, and the team currently has precious little cap room to make up for the departures.

The signing of Fowler goes a long way toward addressing Beasley’s departure.

The signing of Gurley was one the team likely could have never anticipated when the offseason began. Given Atlanta had already opted to move on from Devonta Freeman, Gurley potentially represents an upgrade if he’s truly at full health. The Falcons should be able to manage Gurley’s workload, considering they have capable complementary options in Ito Smith and Brian Hill, in addition to any other backs they might bring in via the remainder of free agency and the draft.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Super Bowl 55 odds: Currently +1600
Franchise tag: Shaquil Barrett, LB
Key re-signings: Jason Pierre-Paul, LB (two years, $27 million); Rakeem Nunez-Roches, DE (one year, $1.2 million); Bryant Mitchell, WR (one year); Antony Auclair, TE (one year); Kevin Minter, LB (one year); Andrew Adams, CB (one year, $1 million); Ndamukong Suh, DL (one year, $8 million); Ryan Smith, CB (one year); Blaine Gabbert, QB (one year)
Key free agent losses: Carl Nassib, DE/LB (to LVR); Beau Allen, DT (to NE); Peyton Barber, RB (to WAS); Breshad Perriman, WR (to NYJ)
Key free-agent signings: Tom Brady, QB (from NE); Joe Haeg, OG (from IND)

A story about a man named Brady has unsurprisingly sent the Bucs’ futures odds soaring. The future Hall of Fame quarterback is officially expected to sign with the Buccaneers on Wednesday when the new league year officially begins (UPDATE 3/18: The signing is now official). It’s difficult to immediately gauge what a quarterback the caliber of Brady will mean to a Tampa Bay offense that already comes preloaded with highly impressive weaponry in Mike Evans, Chris Godwin and O.J. Howard, among other solid supporting players. Coach Bruce Arians’ aggressive playcalling is yet another intangible that could make a Brady-Bucs marriage an ideal fit, even with some questions about the 42-year-old’s arm strength. Keeping both Barrett and Pierre-Paul is also a highly welcome turn of events for a defense that still needs improvement.

Carolina Panthers

Super Bowl 55 odds: Currently +8000
Key re-signing: Kyle Allen, QB (one-year extension) (UPDATE 3/23: Allen has been traded to the Redskins); DeAndrew White, WR (one year)
Key free agent losses: James Bradberry, CB (to NYG); Mario Addison, LB (to BUF); Greg Olsen, TE (to SEA); Gerald McCoy, DT (to DAL); Vernon Butler, DT (to BUF); Bruce Irvin, LB (to SEA); Greg Van Roten, OG (to NYJ); Marcus Baugh, TE (to WAS); Dontari Poe, DT (to DAL); Daryl Williams, OT (to BUF)
Key free-agent signings: Teddy Bridgewater, QB (from NO); Juston Burris, CB (from CLE); Stephen Weatherly, DE (from MIN); Seth Roberts, WR (from BAL); John Miller, OG (from CIN); Keith Kirkwood, WR (from NO); Pharoh Cooper, WR (from ARI); Seth Devalve, TE (from JAC); Tahir Whitehead, LB (from LVR); P.J. Walker, QB (from XFL); Robby Anderson, WR (from NYJ); Zach Kerr, DT (from ARI)

There are big names on both sides of the free-agency equation for the Panthers, and another who’s about to be added to the list of subtractions — perhaps by outright release if no trade partner is found — in that of quarterback Cam Newton. The arrival of Bridgewater on a $63 million contract guarantees Newton’s time in Carolina is done. Bradberry and Addison were players Carolina would have undoubtedly liked to have kept, and their defense will suffer to some degree for their departures. The addition of Weatherly could prove to be a boon in the long run, but the 26-year-old has never been a starter and therefore is still an unknown quantity to an extent. Retaining Allen was also crucial as a security blanket behind Bridgewater.

NFC North

Green Bay Packers

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +1800; Currently +2200
Key re-signing: Marcedes Lewis, TE (one year, $2.25 million)
Key free agent losses: Blake Martinez, LB (to NYG); Jimmy Graham, TE (to CHI); Bryan Bulaga, OT (to LAC); Kyle Fackrell, LB (to NYG); B.J. Goodson, LB (to CLE); Geronimo Allison, WR (to DET)
Key free-agent signings: Christian Kirksey, LB (from CLE); Ricky Wagner, OT (from DET); Devin Funchess, WR (from IND)

The Packers have seen their odds slide a bit with the expectation that Tom Brady will officially be a part of the NFC by the start of the league year Wednesday and the news Drew Brees will be back under center for the Saints in 2020, at minimum. Then, Green Bay has lost several important contributors in Martinez, Bulaga and even Graham. Kirksey, a tackling machine in his own right when healthy, could ultimately prove a capable replacement for Martinez, but the former Browns linebacker is coming off two injury-riddled seasons.

Minnesota Vikings

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +2000; Currently +2800
Franchise tag: Anthony Harris, S
Key restricted free agent tender: Eric Wilson, LB (second-round tender)
Key trade departure: Stefon Diggs, WR (to BUF)
Key re-signings: C.J. Ham, FB (four years, $12.25 million); Dan Bailey, K (three years, $10 million); Rashod Hill, OG (one year, $1 million); Dakota Dozier, LT (one year, $1 million); Brett Jones, C (one year, $910K); Ameer Abdullah, RB (one year, $1 million)
Key free agent losses: Stephen Weatherly, DE (to CAR); Trae Waynes, CB (to CIN); Linval Joseph, DT (to LAC); Jayron Kearse, S (to DET); Andrew Sendejo, S (to CLE); Laquon Treadwell, WR (to ATL); Mackensie Alexander, CB (to CIN); Xavier Rhodes, CB (released, subsequently signed by IND)
Key free-agent signings: Michael Pierce, DT (from BAL); Tajae Sharpe, WR (from TEN); Anthony Zettel, DE (from SF)

The loss of Diggs is naturally the biggest subtraction here. However, the talented but disgruntled receiver would have very likely been more trouble than he was worth in 2020 and beyond, so this could be a case of addition by subtraction. If Minnesota makes good use of the extra first-round pick they’ll get once the trade with Buffalo becomes official, they could certainly turn the move into an unequivocal win for their purposes. The losses of Weatherly and Waynes are tolerable despite fact both players certainly had their moments during their Vikings careers.

Chicago Bears

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +3500; Currently +3300
Key re-signings: Danny Trevathan, LB (three years, $24 million); Deon Bush, S (one year, $1.4 million); DeAndre Houston-Carson, LB (terms undisclosed); Brent Urban, DE (one year); Isaiah Irving, LB (terms undisclosed); Tyler Bray, QB (one year, $955,000)
Key trade acquisition: Nick Foles, QB (from JAC)
Key free agent losses: Nick Kwiatkoski, LB (to LV); Chase Daniel, QB (to DET); Nick Williams, DT (to DET); Kevin Pierre-Louis, LB (to WAS); Leonard Floyd, LB (released, subsequently signed by LAR); Cornelius Lucas, OT (to WAS); HaHa Clinton-Dix, S (to DAL)
Key free-agent signings: Robert Quinn, DE (from DAL); Jimmy Graham, TE (from GB); Jordan Lucas, S (from KC); Demetrius Harris, TE (from CLE); Artie Burns, CB (from PIT); Barkevious Mingo, LB (from HOU); German Ifedi, RT (from SEA)

Perhaps the biggest surprise here was the Bears prioritizing Trevathan over the younger and more durable Nick Kwiatkoski. There were more losses of solid players on that side of the ball as well in Williams and Pierre-Louis, but the snagging of Quinn from the Cowboys certainly helps make up for the departures to an extent. It remains to been how much Graham has left in the tank, and naturally, if Mitchell Trubisky can’t show marked improvement in 2020, neither Graham nor the rest of his new offensive teammates will enjoy much success. The fact Chicago reportedly made a strong play for Teddy Bridgewater before he went to Carolina certainly doesn’t speak to the franchise’s faith in Trubisky.

The arrival of Foles really makes things interesting, although how much of an upgrade he is over Trubisky remains to be seen. What is certain is Trubisky will be in a heated battle for the starting job this summer.

Detroit Lions

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +6600; Currently +6600
Key re-signing: Miles Killebrew, S (one year, $2 million); Oday Aboushi, OT (one year)
Key trade departure: Darius Slay, CB (to PHI)
Key free agent losses: Ricky Wagner, OT (to GB); Graham Glasgow, OG (to DEN); Devon Kennard, LB (to ARI); J.D. McKissic, RB (to WAS); Logan Thomas, TE (to WAS); A’Shawn Robinson, DT (to LAR); Rashaan Melvin, CB (to JAC)
Key free-agent signings: Nick Williams, DT (from CHI); Chase Daniel, QB (from CHI); Jamie Collins, LB (from NE); Halapoulivaati Vaitai, OG (from PHI); Danny Shelton, DT (from NE); Ted Karras, C (from NE); Desmond Trufant, CB (from ATL); Jayron Kearse, S (from MIN); Reggie Ragland, LB (from KC); Elijah Lee, LB (from SF); Geremy Davis, WR (from LAC); Geronimo Allison, WR (from GB); Daryl Roberts, CB (from NYJ)

The Lions went within the division for Williams and Daniel, the latter who’ll simply operate as veteran insurance behind Matthew Stafford. Outside of last season, Stafford had proven unfailingly durable throughout his career, and he’s expected back at full strength this season. Collins is also a pivotal pick-up, considering he’ll reunite with former defensive coordinator Matt Patricia in Motown.

Shelton is another important addition to the Lions’ front seven and former pupil of Patricia who could play a major role in reinforcing the heart of the defense.

Slay’s departure ends the veteran distinguished tenure with the team, but it’s offset by the signing of Trufant, which immediately preceded it. All told, the moves could end up being a wash, considering the two players are similarly talented.

NFC West

San Francisco 49ers

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +1000; Currently +900
Key trade departure: DeForest Buckner, DT (to IND)
Key re-signings: Arik Armstead, DT (five years, $85 million); Jimmie Ward, S (three years, $28.5 million);
Key free agent losses: Levine Toilolo, TE (to NYG); Anthony Zettel, DE (to MIN); Sheldon Day, DT (to IND); Elijah Lee, LB (to DET)
Key free-agent signings: Tom Compton, G (from NYJ); Joe Walker, LB (from ARI); Kerry Hyder, LB (from DAL); Travis Benjamin, WR (from LAC)

The NFC champs settled on holding on to Armstead and Ward while sacrificing Buckner, who they obviously didn’t feel they’d be able to sign to a new contract. San Fran currently is pressed up tightly against the cap, so the draft is likely to be their biggest source of new talent this offseason. The Niners do bring back the majority of the team that took the league by surprise in 2019, but they are highly likely to lose mid-season trade acquisition Emmanuel Sanders in free agency.

Seattle Seahawks

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +2000; Currently +2000
Key restricted free agent tender: Jacob Hollister, TE (second-round tender)
Key re-signing: Jarran Reed, DT (two years, $23 million)
Key free agent losses: George Fant, OT (to NYJ); Quinton Jefferson, DE (to BUF); Al Woods, DT (to JAC); German Ifedi, RT (to CHI)
Key free-agent signings: Greg Olsen, TE (from CAR); B.J. Finney, OG (from PIT); Bruce Irvin LB (from CAR); Brandon Shell, OT (from NYJ); Cedric Ogbuehi, OT (from JAC); Phillip Dorsett, WR (from NE); Benson Mayowa, DE (from LVR)

Keeping Reed was integral to the defense’s ability to both stop the run and get after the quarterback. Saddling Hollister with the second-round tender is another prudent move, as combining the emerging tight end with a healthy Will Dissly and savvy vet Olsen could be a major boon for the Seahawks’ passing game. The loss of Fant will have to be addressed, however, but Seattle does have a solid amount of cap room to work with over the rest of the offseason.

Los Angeles Rams

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +2200; Currently +3300
Key re-signings: Andrew Whitworth, OT (three years, $30 million); Michael Brockers, DT (three years, $24 million); Donte Deayon, S (terms undisclosed)
Key trade departure: Brandin Cooks (to HOU)
Key free agent losses: Cory Littleton, LB (to LV); Michael Brockers, LB (to BAL); Dante Fowler, Jr., LB (to ATL); Jojo Natson, WR (to CLE); Todd Gurley, RB (released, subsequently signed by ATL); Marqui Christian, S (to NYJ); Nickell Robey-Coleman, CB (to PHI); Mike Thomas, WR (to CIN); Greg Zuerlein, K (to DAL)
Key free-agent signings: Leonard Floyd, LB (released by CHI); A’Shawn Robinson, DT (from DET)

The Rams currently fall just below league average in cap room and have already lost a couple of solid defensive players, so the start to free agency hasn’t been ideal. There have also been trade rumors surrounding Todd Gurley and Brandin Cooks, while the team also has some key unsigned players as well in the form of Dante Fowler (UPDATE 3/18: Fowler has signed with the Falcons) and Greg Zeuerlein. Salary-cap constraints have already coerced L.A. into forgoing the 2020 option on talented slot corner Nickell Robey-Coleman, so it’s little wonder there’s been a drop in the team’s odds since the start of the offseason.

Arizona Cardinals

Super Bowl 55 odds: Opened +6600; Currently +5000
Transition tag: Kenyan Drake, RB
Key re-signings: Larry Fitzgerald, WR (one year, $11 million); Chris Banjo, S (one year); Brett Hundley, QB (one year); Jonathan Bullard, DE (one year); D.J. Foster, RB (one year); Charles Washington, S (one year); Max Garcia, OG (terms undisclosed); Marcus Gilbert, OT (one year, $3.75  million)
Key trade acquisition: DeAndre Hopkins, WR (from HOU)
Key trade departure: David Johnson, RB (to HOU)
Key free agent losses: Damiere Byrd, WR (to NE); Rodney Gunter, DE (to JAC); Pharoh Cooper, WR (to CAR); Joe Walker, LB (to SF); Cassius Marsh, DE (to JAC); Zach Kerr, DT (to CAR)
Key free-agent signings: Jordan Phillips, DT (from BUF); Devon Kennard, LB (from DET); De’Vondre Campbell, LB (from ATL); Trevon Coley, DT (from IND); Jeremy Vujnovich, OG (from WAS)

If Arizona hangs onto Drake through the transition tag or a new contract, it will have already laid the groundwork for a significantly improved offense in the second year of the Air Raid attack. The ageless Fitzgerald’s re-signing and Christian Kirk’s presence combined with the arrival of Hopkins — whose ability to get open and make plays in the short-to-medium passing windows seemingly make him a perfect fit for the Air Raid’s ball-out-quick philosophy — have already the Cardinals make a significant climb up the futures ladder. Letting Johnson leave town simplifies the crowded backfield and takes the pressure off coach Kliff Kingsbury to have to get him involved. Getting Phillips should also be a significant boost for the team’s run-stopping efforts. The sum total of all offseason transactions to date has the Cards pointing in the right direction.

Kennard’s arrival further strengthens the front seven and also provides a boost to the pass rush — he has 14 sacks combined the last two seasons.

Campbell’s arrival from Atlanta is another step in the right direction for the defense, considering he’s boosted his tackle total in each of his first four seasons and topped out at 129 last season while also recording two sacks, two interceptions, three forced fumbles and a fumble recovery.

How to bet Super Bowl futures

Futures bets

Futures bets are a great way for diehard sports fans to get themselves a little more involved in the upcoming success of their favorite teams and/or players. They can also be a good way for the maligned hometown fan to shift focus a little bit and worry more about the success (or failure) of rival teams.

Fans can put their prediction skills to the test by placing wagers on things such as the Super Bowl 54 champion, division and conference winners, win totals for each team, and individual player awards such as MVP and Offensive and Defensive Rookies of the Year.

Additionally, many books offer over/under lines on certain yardage or touchdown numbers for specific players or head-to-head options between two stars of a shared position. These are often referred to as “specials.”

Odds on certain futures will often be updated throughout the offseason as players change teams or suffer injuries. Once the season starts, odds can change wildly based on injuries, and fast or slow starts with bettors having to know the difference between pretenders and contenders.

There’s nothing like placing a wager on a longshot early in the offseason and watching the year play out in their, and your, favor. It can be ill-advised to bet on a favorite in the offseason with so much time for things to go against them.

How to bet NFL futures

All online sportsbooks come in slightly different layouts, but futures sections are typically in the same general area.

Simply click the “NFL” or “Pro Football” tab on your book of choice. The default screen is generally the Week 1 schedule with all 16 games listed, but in a dropdown menu or separate menu bar, there should be several other options, including futures and specials.

Peruse these sections at your whim, looking for the teams, players, or odds which matter most to you. A wager such as Super Bowl Champions or MVP will have money options listed, whether it be all 32 teams or 30-50 of the league’s biggest stars. Each option will have odds listed next to it.

Betting the New England Patriots to repeat as Super Bowl champions at +700 means a $100 wager returns $700. A safer bet such as the Patriots to win the AFC East comes with diminished -600 odds for a return of $16.67 on a $100 bet.

Win totals and player specials typically come in the form of over/unders on a number set by the sportsbook. Each side of the bet will have odds for any result coming in above or below the line.

Other ways to bet on the Super Bowl

Point Spread

The point spread will be one of the most popular methods of placing a wager on Super Bowl LIV. The point spread is the projected margin of victory set by oddsmakers for the favored team. If a bettor wagers on the favorite to “cover” the point spread, the favorite must not only emerge victorious, but must do so by more than the point spread for the bet to be a winner. If the favorite wins the game but does so by less than the spread – or if it loses the game altogether – the bettor will have lost his/her money wagered.

Moneyline

A moneyline wager is a bet on which team will win the game outright, regardless of margin. A moneyline wager is essentially the same type of bet that has been placed among family and friends for decades. When placed with a sportsbook, a moneyline wager pays winning bets based on the odds attached to the wager.

For example, a moneyline wager on the favorite may carry odds of “-110”, meaning a bettor wins $100 for every $110 wagered. Conversely, a moneyline wager on the underdog may carry odds of “+112”, meaning a bettor wins $112 for every $100 bet.

Total (over/under)

A totals wager is one that hinges on whether the bettor correctly bet the game’s combined final score would finish over or under the number projected by the sportsbook at the time of the wager. For example, say Super Bowl LIV carries a projected total of 49 points. If one wagers the “under” on that figure and the game finishes with a 30-21 final score, the bet is a losing one, since the combined total of that score is 51 points. However, if the game instead finishes 24-21 – a combined score of 45 – then that bet would be a winner.

Player Prop Bets

Player Prop bets are wagers that are based on whether the individual player that’s the subject of the bet falls short of or exceeds certain statistical benchmarks. Sportsbooks typically offer an extensive array of such bets for an event of the magnitude of the Super Bowl. Player prop bets are based on the statistics usually accrued by players at different positions.

For example, a prop bet for a quarterback would be whether the player throws for less or more than 250 yards in the game. For a running back, an example would be whether the player receivers less or more than 20 carries. For a receiver, an available prop wager could be based on whether the player falls below or exceeds a certain number of receptions during the game.

Even non-skill position players such as kickers or even an entire defensive unit can be the subject of prop bets. A standard prop bet for a kicker could be based on whether the player will successfully hit more or less than a certain number of field goals, or whether they will miss an extra point. For a defense, prop bets could be based on whether that unit will give up a certain amount of points, or whether it will score a touchdown on an interception or fumble return.

Player prop bets are most often graded on full-game statistics, but there are also prop bets that are based on statistics accrued during a specific quarter or specific half of a game.

Exotic Prop Bets

Prop bets for major events such as a Super Bowl can also center on outcomes that aren’t based on traditional in-game statistics. For example, a prop bet can be placed on whether the game-opening coin toss comes up as heads or tails or which team will win the toss; the color of the Gatorade that is dumped on the winning team’s coach; and what the jersey number of one of the players who scores during the game might be.

There are even prop wagers based on the two flagship non-sports events associated with the game – the National Anthem and the halftime show. Bettors can place wagers on contingencies such as the length of time of the National Anthem, whether the performer will omit a word, whether a certain celebrity will make an unexpected appearance during the halftime festivities or how many songs will be performed by the halftime act.

Super Bowl MVP

The most prestigious individual Super Bowl-related award is that of Most Valuable Player. While any player is technically eligible for the distinction, the best odds by and far lie with the quarterback position, which has taken home 29 of the 54 MVP awards in Super Bowl history. That outpaces the next closest positions – wide receiver and running back – by 22. Five quarterbacks have won the MVP award on multiple occasions. The Patriots’ Tom Brady leads the way with four. The 49ers’ Joe Montana follows with three. Meanwhile, the Packers’ Bart Starr, the Steelers’ Terry Bradshaw and the Giants’ Eli Manning each garnered two apiece.

Even when a future Hall of Famer like Brady is on the winning side, it’s important to remember there is no such thing as a surefire bet. In last year’s Patriots’ win over the Rams, receiver Julian Edelman earned MVP honors with a 10-reception, 141-yard tally.

Alternate Lines

Alternate lines are those offered by sportsbooks as secondary options to the official point spread that has been set. These lines feature an extensive array of different point spreads for both the favorite and underdog side of the game. These lines typically begin at points well above the number associated with each team in the official game line and range well into the other side of the bet, i.e. allowing for a heavy favorite to be bet as a heavy underdog and vice versa.

To cite an example from last year’s Patriots-Rams Super Bowl matchup, New England entered the game at 2.5-point favorites at many sportsbooks. Alternate lines offered could have included a wagering opportunity on the Rams as seven-point favorites instead. Moreover, that bet would have included a very favorable “price” – the preset ratio at which the bet would pay out – due to the much lower probability of the Rams not only winning, but winning by more than a touchdown.

Live Betting

Live betting offers bettors the opportunity to place wagers on the point spread, moneyline or projected total of a game as odds on each fluctuate depending on the flow of a game. With a live betting option, a bettor doesn’t have to be locked into just the wagers they placed prior to the start of the game or at halftime. Rather, if, for example, the favored team unexpectedly falls behind by a two-touchdown margin in the first half, the bettor can hedge his original wager by investing in a new line with odds that reflect how the game is unfolding.

Teasers

A teaser bet is based on multiple games and enables the bettor to adjust the official point spread anywhere between four and 10 points, depending on sport. For football, the allowable range if six, 6.5 or seven points. For a teaser bet to pay out, each leg of the wager must be a winner.

An example of a teaser bet involving the two conference championship games would be as follows:

• The Chiefs are teased from 7.5-point favorites over the Titans down to 1.5-favorites (six-point tease)
• The 49ers are also teased from 7.5-point favorites over the Packers to 1.5-point favorites

If both Kansas City and San Francisco win their games by at least two points, respectively, the teaser bet is a winner. The appeal of teaser bets is the ability to manipulate the spread, and in the process, significantly increase the odds of the wager being successful.

Where to bet Super Bowl 2021