NFL 2026 season preview

By Deniss Novickis | Published: September 7, 2026, 10:45

The new NFL season is just around the corner, so it's time to have a look at the odds and predict the outcome in each of the eight NFL divisions. We'll analyse each team one by one, checking their biggest transactions and other major news before making a final prediction.

The Seattle Seahawks are the defending champions, yet they are only fourth in the list of the top contenders, according to the bookmakers. The Los Angeles Rams lead the way, sitting at 6.00, followed by the Buffalo Bills and the Baltimore Ravens. MightyTips will give a prediction on who'll reach the Super Bowl later, but let's talk about the division rivalries first.

The Buffalo Bills finished 2025 at 12-5 and reached the AFC Divisional Round before losing a 33-30 thriller to Denver, extending the frustration around a team that has consistently fallen short of the Super Bowl. The offseason brought a major change on the sideline, with Joe Brady replacing Sean McDermott as head coach, while the Bills added two potentially important pieces in wide receiver D.J. Moore and edge rusher Bradley Chubb.

Moore should finally give Josh Allen a proven top target, while Chubb addresses a pass rush that produced only seven sacks from its leading player last season. Allen remains the obvious key to everything, but Buffalo must become less dependent on spectacular quarterback plays. If the new coaching staff can improve the defence and maximise Moore, another play-off appearance is expected.

The AFC's biggest surprise in 2025, the New England Patriots went 14-3, winning the division and reaching Super Bowl LX before losing 29-13 to Seattle. Rather than resting on that breakthrough, Mike Vrabel's team made a major offensive upgrade by acquiring star receiver A.J. Brown from Philadelphia, giving Drake Maye a genuine No. 1 target alongside an already promising supporting cast.

The Patriots also continued reshaping the roster, with 2026 draft picks and free-agent additions accounting for a significant portion of the current 53-man squad. Maye is the obvious key player after an impressive second season, but protecting him and avoiding a Super Bowl hangover will be crucial. The biggest challenge is repeating last year's defensive consistency. Nevertheless, New England is a clear play-off contender in the AFC.

This throw by Drake Maye isn't talked about enough. pic.twitter.com/Uor1zPO1Cp

— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) August 29, 2026

The New York Jets endured one of the NFL's worst seasons in 2025, finishing 3-14 and last in the AFC East. The response was a substantial roster overhaul under head coach Aaron Glenn, highlighted by the return of veteran quarterback Geno Smith, who is expected to provide stability after last year's quarterback struggles. The Jets also added safety Minkah Fitzpatrick, while the draft brought edge rusher David Bailey, tight end Kenyon Sadiq and cornerback D'Angelo Ponds.

The biggest issue is still the sheer amount of rebuilding required: New York went an entire season without an interception in 2025 and ranked 31st in points allowed. Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall remain crucial offensive pieces, while Smith's experience will be vital. The Jets should improve, but with a projected win total around 5.5 games, a play-off berth remains a long shot.

Another rebuilding team, the Miami Dolphins, went 7-10 in 2025, finishing third in the AFC East and missing the play-offs, but their 2026 offseason was far more significant than a normal roster reshuffle. Miami released both Tua Tagovailoa and Tyreek Hill, traded Jaylen Waddle and moved on from several other established veterans, effectively ending the previous era.

Malik Willis now enters the season as the starting quarterback, while the Dolphins also traded for Kyle McCord to provide depth after sending Quinn Ewers to Jacksonville. First-year head coach Jeff Hafley faces an enormous task, with the team carrying more than $180 million in dead money. Willis is the key figure, but the lack of proven offensive firepower is the biggest concern. With a few transitional seasons ahead, 4-5 wins would be a success for the Florida side.

AFC East outright prediction: It's a two-horse race, and I can't see a favourite between the Bills and the Patriots. Both will likely make the play-offs, but I'll go with New England winning the division as a more balanced squad.

The Baltimore Ravens went 8-9 in 2025 and missed the play-offs, a disappointing outcome for a team built around Lamar Jackson. The offseason brought one of the biggest changes in franchise history, with John Harbaugh departing after 18 seasons and Jesse Minter taking over as head coach. Baltimore also lost several veterans, including Tyler Linderbaum, Isaiah Likely and Kyle Van Noy, but made a major splash by signing former Bengals pass rusher Trey Hendrickson.

Jackson remains the undisputed key player, with Derrick Henry still giving the offence a formidable rushing dimension. The biggest question is whether Minter and new offensive coordinator Declan Doyle can quickly establish a winning identity. There is certainly enough talent for a play-off return, and Baltimore is widely viewed as one of the AFC's strongest contenders despite last year's losing record.

The Cincinnati Bengals finished 6-11 in 2025, with Joe Burrow's absence for much of the season leaving the team unable to compete consistently. The Bengals responded by aggressively rebuilding their defence, adding elite defensive tackles Jonathan Allen and Dexter Lawrence while also bringing in pass rusher Boye Mafe and safety Bryan Cook. The biggest loss was Trey Hendrickson, who crossed the division to join Baltimore, while Cam Taylor-Britt and Geno Stone also departed.

Burrow is naturally the central figure in 2026, but having Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins healthy gives Cincinnati one of the NFL's most dangerous receiving duos. The biggest problem remains whether the revamped defence can finally become good enough to support the offence. With Burrow healthy, the Bengals absolutely have a realistic play-off chance and could challenge for the division.

Joe Burrow Processing and Throwing Under 2.5 Seconds pic.twitter.com/3lLL2ZYZdB

— Football Performances (@NFLPerformances) June 21, 2026

The only AFC North team with a winning record in 2025 at 10-7, the Pittsburgh Steelers were eliminated by Houston in the Wild Card round. The offseason saw the end of the Mike Tomlin era, with Mike McCarthy taking over, while Pittsburgh made one of the league's most intriguing moves by signing Aaron Rodgers. The Steelers also added Michael Pittman Jr. and Jamel Dean, giving Rodgers another reliable target and strengthening the secondary. DK Metcalf remains the team's premier receiving weapon, while T.J. Watt continues to anchor the defence.

Rodgers is obviously the key player, but his age and durability make quarterback the biggest potential weakness as he enters what could be his final NFL season. Still, McCarthy brings championship experience, and the roster is arguably stronger than last year's group. Pittsburgh has an outside play-off chance and might compete again for the division title.

The Cleveland Browns went 5-12 in 2025, finishing last in the AFC North for the second consecutive season. The offseason was dominated by the blockbuster trade of Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams, removing the NFL's premier pass rusher from a defence that had relied heavily on him. Cleveland also moved on from head coach Kevin Stefanski, replacing him with offensive-minded Todd Monken. The Browns used the draft to strengthen the offensive line and added several young defensive pieces, including first-round pick Mason Graham.

The quarterback situation remains fascinating: Deshaun Watson is the starter, with 2025 rookie Shedeur Sanders behind him. Watson's health and effectiveness are therefore crucial. The biggest problem is an offence that has lacked consistency for years, compounded by Garrett's departure. A play-off berth looks highly unlikely, although a healthy Watson could change the picture.

AFC North outright prediction: If Joe Burrow is healthy, Bengals winning the division at 2.75 is an excellent betting option. Baltimore should be slight favourites, but coach Minter might have his hands full in the debut season.

The Houston Texans went 12-5 in 2025, winning nine straight games to finish second in the AFC South before suffering a 28-16 Divisional Round defeat to New England. Houston strengthened an already elite defence by retaining Danielle Hunter and adding Reed Blankenship, while the biggest offensive move was trading for running back David Montgomery. The Texans also invested heavily in the offensive line, signing Wyatt Teller and Braden Smith and drafting guard/center Keylan Rutledge in the first round.

C.J. Stroud remains the key player after another inconsistent season, while Will Anderson Jr. and Nico Collins give Houston stars on both sides of the ball. The biggest concern is still the offensive line and Stroud's development under pressure. With one of the NFL's best defences and a relatively favourable schedule, Houston has an excellent chance of making the play-offs and should be a leading division contender.

A team that enjoyed a spectacular turnaround in 2025, the Jacksonville Jaguars went 13-4 to win the AFC South before losing 27-24 at home to Buffalo in the Wild Card round. Rather than making sweeping changes, Jacksonville largely chose continuity, although it lost important contributors including running back Travis Etienne, linebacker Devin Lloyd and cornerback Greg Newsome II. The Jaguars added offensive linemen Patrick Mekari and Robert Hainsey during the offseason and recently acquired quarterback Quinn Ewers from Miami to strengthen their backup options behind Trevor Lawrence.

Lawrence is naturally the key player, but the biggest question is whether Jacksonville can maintain last year's defensive excellence after losing Lloyd and several other starters. Liam Coen's system and Anthony Campanile's defence provide continuity, and another play-off appearance is very realistic. However, repeating 13 wins will be a much tougher challenge.

TREVOR LAWRENCE UNREAL 😱

Go-ahead TD in the final seconds ‼️ pic.twitter.com/qZ75CwU4tZ

— ESPN (@espn) October 7, 2025

The Indianapolis Colts started 2025 brilliantly at 8-2 but collapsed down the stretch after quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a season-ending injury, eventually finishing 8-9 and missing the play-offs. Indianapolis made significant defensive changes during the offseason, losing Zaire Franklin, Nick Cross, Kwity Paye and Samson Ebukam but adding some veterans including Arden Key, Micheal Clemons, Cam Taylor-Britt and Jonathan Owens.

The Colts also traded Michael Pittman Jr. to Pittsburgh, while Keenan Allen now gives the passing game an experienced target. Jones' return from injury is the biggest storyline, while Jonathan Taylor remains crucial after leading the NFL with 323 carries last season. The biggest problem is health and defensive consistency after such heavy personnel turnover. If Jones returns close to his pre-injury level, Indianapolis has a realistic shot at a Wild Card spot.

Last in the AFC South for the second consecutive year, the Tennessee Titans endured another miserable campaign, going 3-14. The offseason was a complete reset, with Robert Saleh taking over as head coach and the Titans spending aggressively to surround Cam Ward with better talent. They added former Giants receiver Wan'Dale Robinson on a four-year, $78 million deal, selected Ohio State receiver Carnell Tate fourth overall and brought in defensive reinforcements such as John Franklin-Myers, Jermaine Johnson II, Alontae Taylor and Cor'Dale Flott.
The team also released former quarterback Will Levis after he lost the backup battle to Mitchell Trubisky. Ward is obviously the key player after throwing for 3,169 yards, 15 touchdowns and seven interceptions as a rookie. The biggest concern remains offensive-line protection. A play-off berth would be realistic after a season or two at best.

AFC South outright prediction: This is the first division where I'll go with the favourites. Defence will always win you games, and Houston is better than any of their rivals in this aspect. C.J. Stroud is not the most consistent guy, but he should do well this season.

The Kansas City Chiefs endured their first losing season in years in 2025, finishing 6-11 and missing the play-offs. The offseason brought significant changes, including the departures of Isiah Pacheco, Marquise Brown, JuJu Smith-Schuster and several defensive contributors. Kansas City responded by signing running back Kenneth Walker III, re-signing Travis Kelce and bringing back former offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. The Chiefs also traded All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Rams and selected cornerback Mansoor Delane sixth overall.

Patrick Mahomes is the key, but his recovery from the torn ACL and LCL suffered last December is the biggest concern heading into Week 1. Justin Fields provides insurance if Mahomes is not ready, while Andy Reid remains one of the league's best coaches. A healthy Mahomes would make Kansas City a serious play-off contender, but expectations should be tempered after last year's collapse.

Second in the AFC West last season with an 11-6 record, the Los Angeles Chargers reached the play-offs, but another Wild Card defeat exposed the team's inability to deliver when it mattered most. The biggest offseason change came on offence, as Jim Harbaugh replaced Greg Roman with former Miami head coach Mike McDaniel as the offensive coordinator. The Chargers also strengthened the line by signing Pro Bowl center Tyler Biadasz and adding tight end David Njoku, while re-signing Khalil Mack.

Justin Herbert remains the central figure, and McDaniel's arrival should give the quarterback a more creative system after he was pressured relentlessly last season. The biggest problem is health: Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt both missed most of 2025, while Herbert absorbed a career-high 54 sacks. If the offensive line stays healthy and McDaniel unlocks the offence, another play-off appearance is very realistic.

Second in the AFC West last season with an 11-6 record, the Los Angeles Chargers reached the play-offs, but another Wild Card defeat exposed the team's inability to deliver when it mattered most. The biggest offseason change came on offence, as Jim Harbaugh replaced Greg Roman with former Miami head coach Mike McDaniel as the offensive coordinator. The Chargers also strengthened the line by signing Pro Bowl center Tyler Biadasz and adding tight end David Njoku, while re-signing Khalil Mack. Justin Herbert remains the central figure, and McDaniel's arrival should give the quarterback a more creative system after he was pressured relentlessly last season. The biggest problem is health: Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt both missed most of 2025, while Herbert absorbed a career-high 54 sacks. If the offensive line stays healthy and McDaniel unlocks the offence, another play-off appearance is very realistic.

BO NIX WITH AN ABSOLUTE DIME TO MARVIN MIMS JR. FOR A 93-YARD TOUCHDOWN 😤 pic.twitter.com/DDtQPMFD80

— ESPN (@espn) December 3, 2024

The Denver Broncos went 14-3 in 2025, winning the AFC West and reaching the AFC Championship Game before losing to New England. Denver largely kept its impressive roster intact, with Justin Simmons retiring and John Franklin-Myers and Dre Greenlaw among the most notable departures. The headline addition was Jaylen Waddle, acquired from Miami to give Bo Nix another explosive weapon alongside Courtland Sutton. The Broncos also re-signed running back J.K. Dobbins and linebacker Alex Singleton.

Nix is the obvious key player after an excellent second season, although his recovery from the ankle injury suffered in the play-offs remains important. The biggest question is whether a new offensive play-caller, Davis Webb, can improve an offence that ranked only 14th last year. Denver has enough talent to remain among the AFC's elite, though

The Las Vegas Raiders went 3-14 in 2025, finishing last in the AFC West, but the franchise entered 2026 with genuine optimism following a dramatic rebuild. The Raiders selected Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza first overall and also added running back Ashton Jeanty and several defensive reinforcements. Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins was signed to provide an experienced option while Mendoza develops, and Jalen Nailor arrived to strengthen a thin receiving corps.

The Raiders also retained Maxx Crosby after his proposed trade to Baltimore collapsed, leaving them with a defensive leader around whom they can build. Crosby is the key player on defence, while the biggest storyline is obviously Mendoza and when he takes over the offence. However, it is Cousins who'll start the season as the main quarterback. The biggest problem is the lack of proven talent at wide receiver and the enormous gap between the Raiders and the division's established contenders. Improvement is realistic, but a play-off berth is not on the cards.

AFC West outright prediction: I'm making a bold prediction of the Chiefs missing the play-offs again. It's a bit surprising that Denver is only the third favourite to win the division, and that's exactly what I'm expecting from the Broncos.

The Philadelphia Eagles went 11-6 in 2025, winning the NFC East but losing 23-19 to San Francisco in the Wild Card round. The reigning division champions endured a turbulent offseason, most notably trading A.J. Brown to New England after his relationship with the organization deteriorated. Philadelphia also lost Jaelan Phillips, Nakobe Dean and Reed Blankenship, but added pass rusher Jonathan Greenard, cornerback Riq Woolen and wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks. The Eagles then traded up to select USC receiver Makai Lemon in the first round.

Jalen Hurts remains the key player, but the biggest question is whether a reworked receiving corps can compensate for Brown's departure. DeVonta Smith now becomes the unquestioned No. 1 target. Philadelphia still has arguably the division's deepest roster and should make the play-offs, although repeating as NFC East champions is not guaranteed. 

After finishing 7-9-1 in 2025 and missing the play-offs, the Dallas Cowboys had a hectic offseason which suggests the team is determined to fix its biggest weakness: defence. More than half of last year's defensive roster is gone, including Osa Odighizuwa, Dante Fowler, Jadeveon Clowney and Kenneth Murray. Dallas responded by acquiring Rashan Gary and Dee Winters, drafting defensive back Caleb Downs and pass rusher Malachi Lawrence, and retaining running back Javonte Williams.

George Pickens also received the franchise tag, giving Dak Prescott another dangerous weapon alongside CeeDee Lamb. Prescott remains the key player, but the rebuilt defence is the biggest variable after ranking among the league's worst last season. Dallas has also just added offensive tackle Broderick Jones from Pittsburgh, addressing an important offensive need. With improved defence, a play-off return is realistic, and the Cowboys could challenge for the division.

Jalen Hurts in SuperBowl LVII is one of the greatest forgotten individual performances in sports history. Throw after throw. Play after play. Still the best game he’s ever played. So many amazing throws and tough runs. pic.twitter.com/1y45k9dylY https://t.co/ScKlKdfeRd

— Will Rucker (@Will_Rucker3_AD) September 1, 2026

The New York Giants finished 4-13 in 2025, the worst record in the NFC East, but enter 2026 as one of the division's most intriguing teams after an aggressive rebuild. The Giants hired John Harbaugh as head coach and then reshaped the roster, adding former Ravens including tight end Isaiah Likely, linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, cornerback Greg Newsome II and defensive tackle DJ Reader. New York also drafted linebacker Arvell Reese fifth overall, offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa at No. 10, and receiver Malachi Fields in the third round.

The Giants lost Dexter Lawrence in a blockbuster trade with Cincinnati, while Russell Wilson retired. Jaxson Dart is entering his second season and remains the key player, although Malik Nabers' recovery from his ACL injury is equally important. The biggest concern is whether the new coaching staff can turn potential into consistency. A play-off berth is possible, but probably requires a major leap from Dart.

After reaching the NFC Championship Game the previous season, the Washington Commanders slumped to 5-12 in 2025. Jayden Daniels' injury problems contributed to a dramatic decline. The offseason brought major changes, including the departures of Deebo Samuel, Zach Ertz, Bobby Wagner, Marshon Lattimore and center Tyler Biadasz. Washington did add veteran receiver Stefon Diggs, while the draft provided more weapons for Daniels, giving the quarterback a significantly stronger group of targets.

The biggest question is whether Daniels can rediscover his rookie-year form after an injury-plagued second season. He is unquestionably the team's key player. The offensive line is another major concern, with Nick Allegretti moving from guard to center, while the cornerback has become problematic after Trey Amos was placed on injured reserve. The Commanders have enough talent to compete for a Wild Card, but a tough schedule makes the play-offs more of a possibility than an expectation.

NFC East outright prediction: Philadelphia is the obvious pick here. I can't see the Giants and the Commanders in the play-offs, while Dallas simply doesn't have enough time to polish the defence. The Eagles won't have any problems in this division.

The Detroit Lions finished 9-8 in 2025, an unusually disappointing campaign that left them last in the NFC North despite having the division's best point differential. The offseason saw major changes along the offensive line, with Taylor Decker and Graham Glasgow departing, while David Montgomery was traded to Houston. Detroit replaced Montgomery with former Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco, although a back injury will keep him out for at least the first four games. The Lions also added first-round tackle Blake Miller, edge rusher Derrick Moore and safety Chuck Clark.

Jared Goff remains the key offensive player, with Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jahmyr Gibbs providing elite support, while Aidan Hutchinson anchors the defence. The biggest issue is squad depth, as injuries and departures exposed the roster last year. However, with a much easier schedule and healthier core, Detroit has a good chance of returning to the play-offs.

The Green Bay Packers finished 9-7-1 in 2025, earning a Wild Card spot but losing 31-27 to Chicago after blowing an 18-point halftime lead. Their offseason was less about major additions than trying to preserve a young core, with defensive tackle Javon Hargrave and linebacker Zaire Franklin arriving. At the same time, Rashan Gary was traded to Dallas, and Romeo Doubs left for New England.

Linebacker Micah Parsons remains the headline star after his 2025 arrival, although he is still recovering from a torn ACL and begins 2026 on the reserve/PUP list. Quarterback Jordan Love must also take another step after an inconsistent campaign, while the offensive line looks like the biggest weakness. The situation surrounding Josh Jacobs is another major complication after he was placed on the commissioner's exempt list. Green Bay can make the play-offs, but the margin for error is much smaller than in previous years.

Caleb Williams really made this throw on 4th and 8 😱 pic.twitter.com/lVKFf5p6yH

— NFL (@NFL) January 11, 2026

The Chicago Bears went 11-6 in 2025, winning the NFC North before beating Green Bay in the Wild Card round and losing 20-17 to the Rams in overtime in the Divisional Round. The offseason brought some significant losses: Pro Bowl center Drew Dalman retired at just 27, while D.J. Moore was traded to Buffalo and Tremaine Edmunds was released. Chicago replaced Dalman with Garrett Bradbury and added veteran safety Xavier Woods, while second-round pick Luther Burden III could provide a new dimension at receiver.

Caleb Williams is the obvious key player after throwing for 3,942 yards and 31 touchdowns last season. The biggest concern is whether the defence can maintain its opportunistic form while dealing with injuries in the secondary. With Ben Johnson still in charge and Williams entering his third year, the Bears have a realistic play-off chance, although repeating as division champions will be difficult.

Missing the play-offs last year with a 9-8 record, the Minnesota Vikings made the biggest quarterback move in the division by signing Kyler Murray, who has now been named the starter ahead of J.J. McCarthy. Minnesota also added Jauan Jennings and several offensive-line reinforcements, but traded edge rusher Jonathan Greenard to Philadelphia and released defensive linemen Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave after only one season.

Justin Jefferson remains the team's essential offensive weapon, while Dallas Turner is expected to take on a bigger role defensively. The biggest question is whether Murray can provide the consistency the Vikings lacked at quarterback last year. If he stays healthy, coach Kevin O'Connell has enough talent around him to make Minnesota a genuine play-off contender and perhaps the division's biggest threat to Detroit.

NFC North outright prediction: Without a doubt, this is the most even and unpredictable division. While Chicago did great last year, I believe the Lions will bounce back big time in 2026. Their quarterback, Goff, is way better than any of his division rivals.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers went 8-9 in 2025, missing the play-offs for the first time since 2019 and surrendering their four-year run as NFC South champions. Tampa Bay retained Todd Bowles but changed offensive coordinators again, bringing in former Falcons coordinator Zac Robinson after Josh Grizzard's departure. The biggest offseason loss was franchise icon Mike Evans, who joined San Francisco, leaving rookie first-rounder Emeka Egbuka with a major role. 

The Bucs strengthened the defence with linebacker Alex Anzalone, edge rusher Al-Quadin Muhammad and defensive lineman A'Shawn Robinson, while Kenneth Gainwell was added to complement Bucky Irving. Baker Mayfield remains the key player, but he enters the final year of his contract and will be working with another new playbook. The biggest problem is the defence that struggled badly against the pass and in the red zone. Tampa Bay has enough talent for the play-offs, but the margin is thin.

Finishing 6-11 in 2025, the New Orleans Saints showed encouraging signs late in the season, winning four of their final five games. Tyler Shough took over at quarterback in Week 8 and went 5-4 as a starter, earning the chance to lead the offence in 2026. The Saints strengthened his supporting cast by signing running back Travis Etienne Jr. and tight end Noah Fant while drafting wide receiver Jordyn Tyson in the first round. On defence, former Saints linebacker Kaden Elliss returned after three seasons in Atlanta, replacing the departed Demario Davis.

Chris Olave remains the centerpiece of the passing game, with Alvin Kamara still an important weapon despite his age. The biggest problem is whether Shough can become a consistently productive NFL quarterback. If he develops, New Orleans has a genuine chance to make the play-offs.

We’re Chris Olave days away from Saints football⚜️ pic.twitter.com/uvFj9kKMel

— Trizzy Trace (@tracegirouard48) September 1, 2026

The Carolina Panthers finished 8-9 in 2025, winning the NFC South on tiebreakers before losing 27-24 to the Rams in the Wild Card round. The offseason focused on strengthening a defence that made major progress last year, with edge rusher Jaelan Phillips and linebacker Devin Lloyd among the most important additions. Carolina also added veteran linebacker Bobby Okereke late in the summer, while losing defensive lineman A'Shawn Robinson to Tampa Bay.

Bryce Young is the key figure after posting career highs of more than 3,000 passing yards and 20 touchdowns in 2025, while Tetairoa McMillan enters Year 2 after winning Offensive Rookie of the Year. The biggest problem is still an offence that ranked near the bottom of the league in scoring and yardage. The Panthers can make the play-offs again, but repeating as division champions will be very difficult.

Finishing third in the NFC South with an 8-9 record despite entering the season with significant expectations, the Atlanta Falcons made a major coaching change as Kevin Stefanski replaced Raheem Morris, while former offensive coordinator Zac Robinson moved to Tampa Bay. Atlanta also lost linebacker Kaden Elliss to New Orleans but added veteran quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to compete with Michael Penix Jr. for the starting job.

Penix remains the most important player after an inconsistent first full season, although his recovery from an ACL injury has made the quarterback battle particularly complicated. Bijan Robinson and Drake London give the Falcons one of the division's strongest offensive foundations, while Kyle Pitts could thrive in Stefanski's system. The biggest concern is quarterback uncertainty, compounded by questions about offensive consistency. With a talented roster and improved coaching, Atlanta has a realistic chance of returning to the play-offs.

In what looks like the weakest division of them all, I'll go with Tampa Bay. Mayfield has to do well to earn a new contract, and their squad looks more balanced compared to the other three teams in the division.

The Los Angeles Rams went 12-5 in 2025 and reached the NFC Championship Game, where they lost a thrilling 31-27 contest to Seattle. Rather than standing pat, the Rams went all-in during the offseason, acquiring Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett from Cleveland and All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie from Kansas City. The biggest surprise came just before the season when eight-time first-team All-Pro Aaron Donald returned from retirement to join Garrett on the defensive line.

Matthew Stafford is still the central figure after an MVP campaign in which he threw for 4,707 yards and 46 touchdowns, while Puka Nacua and Davante Adams form an elite receiving duo. The biggest concern is age and durability, particularly with Stafford now 38 and the roster carrying enormous expectations. With Sean McVay in charge, the Rams are virtually certain to be play-off contenders and the NFC's strongest Super Bowl candidate.

Producing the NFC West's best season in 2025, the Seattle Seahawks went 14-3, winning the division and No. 1 seed before beating San Francisco and the Rams in the play-offs and defeating New England 29-13 in Super Bowl LX. The defending champions lost offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak to the Raiders and running back Kenneth Walker III to Kansas City, but retained most of their core. Jaxon Smith-Njigba received a massive extension after leading the NFL with 1,793 receiving yards, while first-round running back Jadarian Price is expected to help replace Walker.

Sam Darnold remains the key player after a career revival in Seattle, although his 25 touchdowns came with 20 turnovers last season. The biggest concern is offensive continuity after another coordinator change. Seattle has an excellent chance of making the play-offs again, although repeating as champions will be extremely difficult in such a strong division.

BREAKING: Aaron Donald coming out of retirement to play for Rams on a 1-year, $20M deal with playoff incentives up to $30M. (via @adamschefter, @rapsheet) pic.twitter.com/K0B4YZRo7v

— NFL (@NFL) August 30, 2026

The San Francisco 49ers finished 12-5 in 2025 but were eliminated by Seattle in the Divisional Round, suffering a heavy 41-6 defeat. The offseason brought significant changes, particularly at wide receiver: Deebo Samuel, Jauan Jennings and Brandon Aiyuk moved on, and San Francisco responded by signing Mike Evans and Christian Kirk, later reuniting with Samuel. The 49ers also acquired defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa from Dallas and brought back linebacker Dre Greenlaw.

Christian McCaffrey is the key player after returning to elite form in 2025 with 2,126 scrimmage yards, but keeping him healthy at age 30 will be crucial. Brock Purdy also needs to stay healthy after playing only nine games last season. The biggest problem is that the defence no longer looks dominant, while injuries have repeatedly disrupted the roster. The 49ers remain realistic play-off contenders, but it’s hard to see them winning the division.

Finishing 3-14 after losing their final nine games and going winless in all six NFC West matchups, the Arizona Cardinals endured a miserable 2025 campaign. The offseason effectively marked the beginning of a rebuild, with Kyler Murray released and former Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur hired as head coach. Arizona used the No. 3 overall pick on Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, while rookie quarterback Carson Beck was added in the third round to compete for the starting job eventually.

Jacoby Brissett is currently expected to begin the season under center, but the long-term focus is clearly on finding a franchise quarterback. Marvin Harrison Jr. remains the biggest offensive talent, while Budda Baker and Josh Sweat lead the defence. The biggest problem here is the lineup of the division. There's no way Arizona will finish higher than fourth place.

NFC West outright prediction: We have three NFC West sides among the top nine contenders, and that speaks for itself. Looking at the Rams' roster, it's impossible to go against them. One thing to note, though: the value here is clearly on the Seahawks.

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