As the highly anticipated 2023-24 NFL season approaches, all eyes are on the fiercely competitive AFC North division.
Last year, Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals made a statement by capturing the division title for the second straight season en route to another AFC Championship Game appearance.
However, with Lamar Jackson returning to the Baltimore Ravens on a five-year contract extension, the stage is set for an exciting showdown between the division’s top teams (and quarterbacks).
With the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers also sharing some sleeper potential, the AFC North promises intense rivalries and thrilling football this upcoming season.
But which team will prevail as king of the North? Let’s dig into the latest AFC North betting odds.
AFC North Winner Betting Odds 2023-24
NFL odds used for these best bets are from Tuesday, May 16, and courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook.
- Cincinnati Bengals (+140)
- Baltimore Ravens (+240)
- Cleveland Browns (+425)
- Pittsburgh Steelers (+450)
As expected, the Bengals (+140) are the favorites to win the division again in 2023. However, Jackson’s return to Baltimore has brought the Ravens closer in the odds, which makes sense since their alternative quarterback options weren’t going to be better than the former MVP.
The Browns and Steelers bring up the rear, but at +425 and +450 odds, these teams fit more in the sleeper category than actual longshots.
AFC North Winner Best Bet
Baltimore Ravens (+240)
After a season in which injuries hampered them, the Ravens have a strong case for winning the AFC North in 2023.
Led by the dynamic Jackson, the Ravens possess a potent rushing attack that consistently troubles opposing defenses. And this offseason, Baltimore’s offense has been further bolstered by adding new pass-catchers, including Odell Beckham Jr. and promising rookie Zay Flowers.
- Check out Baltimore’s AFC Championship odds.
The Ravens’ defense, anchored by playmakers like Marlon Humphrey and Roquan Smith, was one of the best in the league down the stretch last season. If that unit can stay healthy, it can slow down the best offenses in the NFL, even Cincinnati’s.
With their proven track record of success, a top coach in John Harbaugh, and a formidable roster, the Ravens have the talent and experience to emerge as AFC North champions once again.
AFC Divisional Futures Odds & Picks
AFC North Winner Sleeper Pick
Cleveland Browns (+425)
The Browns returned to the basement of the AFC North last season, but the campaign was always likely to be one of transition as Deshaun Watson served an 11-game suspension following his trade from Houston.
As he enters his second season in Cleveland, the team has a prime opportunity to contend for the AFC North title.
While the early results were not good, a year of familiarity and continuity in head coach Kevin Stefanski’s system provides the potential for even greater chemistry and success.
Plus, the Browns have made some shrewd offseason signings on defense, adding Dalvin Tomlinson, Juan Thornhill, and Ogbonnia Okoronkwo to a unit that struggled last campaign.
If Watson returns to form and the defense improves, Cleveland can certainly play itself to the top of the AFC North.