The NFL has been on a really good run when it comes to throwback and alternate uniforms. From the Jaguars bringing back the Prowler unis, to the Seahawks bringing their throwbacks back to the limelight and the Bucs returning to the creamsicles, alternate and throwbacks are absolutely cooking. 2025 is no exception to this, with new uniforms coming from the Washington Commanders, Los Angeles Chargers and New Orleans Saints.
But how do these uniforms stack against each other? Let’s rank them ahead of the 2025 season. This ranking is of full uniform sets, so we’re excluding the Bills’ red helmets and the Browns alternate helmets. Let’s get into it!
Was there any other choice here? The Bucs’ went retro again, going to the 1976 creamsicle classics. I honestly like these more than the orange creamsicle jerseys that came back before these, it just looks a lot sharper. I love the orange as a complement to the white jersey, and the logo on the helmet is absolutely awesome. We need to discuss the Buccaneers having the best full uniform set in the NFL, because they have a STRONG argument.
2. Los Angeles Chargers all-navy uniform
These just remind me of a simpler time. Life was sweeter when the Chargers were wearing the all-navy uniforms on a Sunday afternoon on CBS, watching the game with your family after eating some good food. These are super clean, and the lighning bolt on the side is a perfect complement.
3. Washington Commanders alternates
Doing an alternate jersey for the Commanders is tough given *waves hands at their history*, but I think the team did a good job of honoring the previous teams while also not going back to the previous name. I love the outline on the numbers, it makes the burgundy on the numbers really pop out and the stripes on the helmet are a classic. Really solid jersey here, nice homage by the Commanders.
4. Los Angeles Chargers all-yellow alternates
So this is where the list takes a turn. Let me say this first: the idea of these are fine, and honestly, these might grow on me once I see them in game. But yellow on yellow just feels really…strong. Like the uniform set is so incredibly bright that it’s kind of annoying. It’s a cool idea, but I’ll have to see it in action.
5. Green Bay Packers alternate
“Hey Chicago Bears, can I copy your homework?”
“Yeah, just don’t make it obvious”
6. Pittsburgh Steelers throwback uniforms
Sometimes, it’s ok to leave things in the past.
These uniforms are a great example of that.
7. New Orleans Saints alternate uniforms
I’m sorry, man, these stink. The gold on the jersey doesn’t even match the gold on the helmet! What are we doing here! Normally I like the Saints black and gold uniform set, but this is just bad. Make the gold darker or don’t do a gold uniform at all.
We need to set a national standard on what color gold is, because the Saints are trying to have their cake and eat it too, and I won’t allow it.
