In the fast-changing NFL, two years without making the playoffs is a long time.

Nineteen of the league's 32 teams have made the playoffs at least once during the past two seasons. Here are the unlucky 13 who have not: 49ers, Bears, Bengals, Bills, Broncos, Browns, Chiefs, Jets, Lions, Raiders, Rams, Saints and Texans.

Of those 13, which teams have the best chance to make the playoffs this season? Here's a look at the five teams poised to make the leap to postseason:

1. New Orleans Saints
They led the league in total offense last season, and the key cogs, led by quarterback Drew Brees, return. Priorities include improving defensively under new coordinator Gregg Williams, playing better on the road (they were 2-6 last year) and winning more close games. The Saints were 8-8 last season but lost six games by five points or less.

"In those eight losses, three or four of those games we had opportunities at the end of the game or the latter part of the game to finish," Saints coach Sean Payton said. "We weren't able to do that. That's an emphasis as we approach the '09 season."

2. Houston Texans
Winning five of their last six games in '08 has the players brimming with confidence. All 11 offensive starters are back, and the Texans figure to have better luck. They were forced to play their first three games on the road last season because of Hurricane Ike, and starting quarterback Matt Schaub missed five games because of injury.

If Schaub, wide receiver Andre Johnson and running back Steve Slaton play a full 16-game schedule, the offense should put up huge numbers. Since entering the league in '02, the Texans never have made the playoffs. It's no secret owner Bob McNair thinks the time has come.

Special feature Tracking 20 key NFL moves Rosenthal: Gonzalez’s trade to Atlanta just one notable offseason move. We note the others. NBCSports.com

"I think we're a better team, and I'm looking forward to the season," McNair said. "I think we have more speed and athleticism, and a lot of our younger players are a year older. I certainly feel good about it and feel like this is going to be a big year for us."

3. Chicago Bears
Acquiring quarterback Jay Cutler raises their offense to another level. Cutler put up big numbers with the Broncos without a consistent running game, and he certainly looks forward to having a back like Matt Forte, who gained 1,238 yards last year as a rookie.

"We're going to run the ball," Cutler said. "I've learned the hard way you have to run the ball, and you have to stop the run, to win in this league, to make the playoffs and make a push for the Super Bowl."

Despite the hoopla surrounding Cutler, it's the Bears' defense that needs the most improvement for the team to make the postseason. Coach Lovie Smith will take over the defensive play-calling this season, knowing his job might depend on getting the most out of that unit.

4. Buffalo Bills
Terrell Owens is grabbing the headlines, as usual. But Lee Evans also had a 1,000-yard receiving season in '08, and he averaged more yards per catch than Owens. Together, they should be one of the league's best receiving tandems. That will make the game easier for quarterback Trent Edwards.

"We're letting Trent have a little more freedom in the offense," Evans said. "You look at it on paper, you certainly have the potential to be very good offensively."

Slideshow   The Week in Sports Pictures The Giants on top of the football world, getting ready for the London Olympics and more. more photos

The Bills have not made the playoffs since '99 and have a history of fading late in the season. Owens gives the team star-power and maybe the swagger to play with more confidence down the stretch.

5. New York Jets
Defense can take you a long way, and Rex Ryan's defense should be solid. Kellen Clemens might win the starting quarterback job, but only if rookie Mark Sanchez proves he is not ready to handle it. It's early, but even Clemens admits Sanchez has been a quick study.

"He is doing a very good job," Clemens said of Sanchez. "He is a very smart kid."

The smart money says Sanchez will be at the helm in December, when the Jets are fighting to make the playoffs.

Also on NBCSports.com Beyond the Arc: No. 11 Mich. St. takes big step forward Chandler: Jeremy Lin was special even in 8th grade What NFC teams need this offseason  |  And AFC DeMarco: Dodgers could become a contender Follow us on Twitter: @NBCSports  |  And Facebook