NFC West

The NFC West is one of the four divisions of the National Football Conference (NFC) in the National Football League (NFL). It was formed in 2002 as part of a league realignment following the addition of the Houston Texans as an expansion team. The division currently consists of four teams: the Arizona Cardinals, the Los Angeles Rams, the San Francisco 49ers, and the Seattle Seahawks.

Historically, the NFC West has seen periods of dominance by different franchises. Prior to the 2002 realignment, it featured teams like the Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, and New Orleans Saints, which were subsequently moved to the NFC South. Since 2002, the Seahawks enjoyed considerable success in the division, though the other teams have also achieved division titles and playoff appearances.

Division winners are determined by regular-season record, with the team having the best record being crowned the NFC West champion. The division winner automatically qualifies for the NFL playoffs as at least the fourth seed in the NFC. The remaining teams in the division are eligible for playoff contention as wild card teams.

The NFC West is known for its competitive rivalries and varying styles of play amongst its member teams. The geographic spread of the teams results in significant travel requirements during the season. The division has produced multiple Super Bowl participants and champions.