The Mike Tomlin era has come to an end. His successor is Mike McCarthy – himself a long-time coach for Aaron Rodgers with the Green Bay Packers. The legacy will not be an easy one, as Mike Tomlin never had a losing record in any of his 19 seasons as Steelers coach. The upcoming season will likely be Rodgers' last in the NFL – the last dance.
Offense:
With a new Head Coach, of course, comes a new Offensive Coordinator. Brian Angelichio was the Passing Game Coordinator for the Vikings for the past four years. In free agency, they acquired RB Rico Dowdle and WR Michael Pittman. In the draft, they picked OT Max Iheanachor in the first round. However, three rotational players – Valdes-Scantling, Gainwell, and Austin III – left the Steelers. At the end of August, the former starting Left Tackle Jones and backup RB Johnson also departed, each traded for draft picks.
Defense:
There's also a new Coordinator on the defensive side. Patrick Graham was active in the same role in Las Vegas for the past four seasons. Pittsburgh ranked only 26th in yards allowed last season, but masked this with the fourth-most turnovers of all teams. With Jamel Dean and Jaquan Brisker, the secondary was strengthened. If the defense's old stars (Watt, Ramsey, Heyward) also deliver their last dance this year, then this defense can become very unpleasant.
Outlook:
It's a very difficult outlook to predict here. Many fragile components play a role: on one hand, a new coaching staff, and on the other hand, with Rodgers and the key defensive players, there are many older players who have already passed their prime.
The schedule promises many close games, as they play against several teams that are at the same performance level. Therefore, I predict that Pittsburgh will have a losing season this year for the first time in over 20 years, and Rodgers' last dance won't be as sparkling.
Prediction: 8-9
Cleveland Browns
(2025: 5-12) by sportfan_1990
The Cleveland Browns were involved in one of the biggest offseason upsets. The trade of superstar Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams was arguably the top news of the summer. Cleveland received Jared Verse, a good young replacement, plus a first-, a second-, and a third-round pick in upcoming drafts. After six years, Kevin Stefanski was fired and replaced by Todd Monken.
Offense:
Last year, Shedeur Sanders was named the starting quarterback. The new team reversed course and, in mid-August, named Deshaun Watson as the starter once again. The QB situation in Cleveland is arguably the worst in the entire NFL.
However, the skill positions look promising. KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston will start as two rookie wide receivers, and RB Judkins and TE Fannin Jr. are only entering their second year. Only the O-Line is a cobbled-together group. It was almost completely replaced. Nevertheless, it will be an upgrade compared to last year. The top pick also went into the line: Left Tackle Spencer Fano was drafted at #9 in this year's draft.
Defense:
Myles Garrett's departure overshadows everything. Last season, the defense was in the top 10 in many metrics. Now, the loss of Garrett must be compensated for collectively. Led by Jared Verse and the reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year MLB Carson Schwesinger.
It will be up to the front seven to improve the defense's Achilles' heel – stopping the opponent's run game. Only then can the secondary – the crown jewel of the defense – with Denzel Ward and Grant Delpit shine. It must also be mentioned that Mike Rutenberg is taking over as the new Defensive Coordinator.
Outlook:
The AFC North is no picnic. And since the QB situation is so chaotic, the Browns want to select their new quarterback of the future very early in the upcoming draft. Therefore, I once again predict a transitional season and a top-5 pick in the upcoming draft.
Prediction: 4-13
Cincinnati Bengals
(2025: 6-11) by MatB
It felt like every year, the signs before last season (2025) in Cincinnati were similar: super QB, super receivers, an offense overall that many teams would dream of. On the other hand, almost all opponents dreamed of having such a defense as the Bengals' against them. But like seemingly every season, the injury bug struck early last year, and star QB Joe Burrow had to sit out nine games – the record from those nine games: 1-8. The season was practically over then.
Head Coach Zac Taylor is, somewhat surprisingly, entering his eighth season. If there's no deep playoff run this year, I think it might be his last.
Offense:
What can you say about a dish with ingredients like QB Joe Burrow, WR Ja’Marr Chase, WR Tee Higgins, RB Chase Brown? I've already written about Burrow's injury – I would wish for another injury-free season and an O-Line that knows how to protect him. On average, Burrow is sacked almost three times per game over a season.
The O-Line also needs to open up holes for the running game. It will be important for this formation to take a step forward – in recent seasons, it has always been in the lower-middle tier of the league. Running Back Chase Brown, one of the few "white" running backs in the league, is among the better ones and is coming off a 1000-yard season.
We don't need to write much about the WR duo Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins; most of you are more than familiar with them. Ja’Marr Chase is at the very top of most fantasy drafts, in the top 3. No wonder, as he has had no season with fewer than 1,046 receiving yards or seven touchdowns since his 2021 draft. Tee Higgins' numbers as a #2 receiver are also impressive: Since his 2020 draft, he has never had fewer than 656 receiving yards, which is remarkable given only twelve games and five receiving touchdowns. He averages 64 receiving yards per game; on many teams, he would be the undisputed #1 receiver.
Defense:
What the offense is to the positive, the defense is to the negative – especially since Trey Hendrickson, the Bengals' star defender, changed teams. Particularly sensitive, as he went specifically to division arch-rival Baltimore. With Joseph Ossai, they lost another defender who was on the field for more than half of the snaps.
In return, Jonathan Allen was acquired from the Vikings, and Boye Mafe came from the Super Bowl winners. In the draft, the first two picks in Round 2 also went to defense: DE Cashius Howell – who should immediately be able to compete for many snaps – and CB Tacario Davis.
The secondary itself has been somewhat revamped. In free agency, another new cornerback and two new safeties arrived, including Kyle Dugger from the Steelers. The defense must take a step forward under Defensive Coordinator Al Golden; initial improvements were already visible towards the end of last season. Basically, it shouldn't be a difficult undertaking, as they allowed 28.9 points per game last season (#30 in the league) and had to swallow a total of 6,475 yards (#31 in the league). I don't think I need to write anything more about that.
Outlook:
One could copy & paste from previous years here. If the offense stays healthy, the Bengals will contend for the division title and the playoffs. If just one key offensive player gets injured, it will probably be mediocre again, just like in recent years. Who would believe that if you look for the Bengals in the playoffs, you have to go back to 2022? It will be up to the defense whether it's a successful season and if HC Zac Taylor and DC Al Golden will be found in Cincinnati in 2027.
Prediction: 12-5 and Playoff Football – where anything is possible
Baltimore Ravens
(2025: 8-9) by MatB
Who would have thought that one of last season's top favorites wouldn't even make the playoffs? Both apply to the Ravens last season.
Before the season, it was thought they had strengthened the defense and found a #2 receiver in DeAndre Hopkins. Neither turned out to be true. The offense underperformed, and the defense stagnated. An 8-9 season is unacceptable for a team like this, and John Harbaugh felt the consequences – one of the longest-serving coaches had to step aside. Since the 2008 season, John Harbaugh had been the Head Coach in Baltimore.
Interestingly, with Mike Tomlin of the Steelers, another longest-serving Head Coach also left the AFC North and the NFL, while John Harbaugh had his pick of choices for his next position and ultimately chose the New York Giants Football Team.
To top it off, all main assistant coaches were also replaced. The new Offensive Coordinator is Declan Doyle, who replaced Todd Monken, the new Defensive Coordinator is Anthony Weaver, and Anthony Levine Sr. was introduced as the new Special Teams Coach.
Offense:
Alongside the Bengals, certainly one of the most exciting offenses in the NFL. Just the names – QB Lamar Jackson, RB Derrick Henry, TE Mark Andrews, and WR Zay Flowers – make every football fan's mouth water. #1 WR Zay Flowers celebrated his payday with $140 million for 4 years.
A true #2 receiver has not yet emerged; perhaps 3rd-round pick WR Ja’Kobi Lane, who according to many reports should be at least receiver #3, will surprise. The O-Line was strengthened with John Simpson, plus 1st-round pick OG Vega Ioane. An old adage: whoever dominates the line dominates the game, and that was exactly the Ravens' problem last season.
Defense:
The defense is in no way inferior to the offense in terms of names: LB Roquan Smith, S Kyle Hamilton, S Malaki Starks, CB Marlon Humphrey, to name just a few. This defense was boosted with Trey Hendrickson from arch-rival Cincinnati. But here too, the motto is, whoever dominates the line dominates the game. The Ravens should focus on that this year – and Trey Hendrickson should contribute. Last season, they allowed 6,027 opponent yards, which reflects #11 in the NFL. If a defense allows many points or yards, the offense must respond with big plays, which is always risky.
Outlook:
The Ravens played well below their potential last season. With this team, they should lead the division from the top and make the playoffs. For me, the Ravens are once again among the closer favorites for a Super Bowl appearance this year, and as is well known, anything is possible there. In my opinion, it depends on the new coaching staff whether they can put the power on the field and make it there – for me, the biggest question mark in Baltimore.
Prediction: 13-4 Division Title and Playoff Run
AFC East (by DM79 and MatB)
Miami Dolphins
Yet another rebuild (2025: 7-10) by DM79
The best thing for a Dolphins fan about the 2026/27 season is that there can be no disappointment. Over the past two decades, the build-up of expectations, hope in September/October, and subsequent disappointment has been the only constant for this team.
The last attempt with Tua Tagovailoa, Jaylen Waddle, Tyreek Hill, and a strong rushing offense under the Chris Grier regime and Mike McDaniel's guidance briefly looked like a recipe for success, but ultimately failed and will surely cast a shadow (dead cap) over the franchise for some time.
The fresh start is the only right thing to do, and I genuinely hope for the best possible season for the many newcomers on the roster, but also for truly bad results and, ideally, the #1 overall pick in the 2027 Draft. The first signs are already positive, as the existing weaknesses – especially those in the offensive line – were recognized in the 2026 Draft. Now it's time to evaluate where they are already right, where they are on the right track, and where they still need to (significantly) improve.
Coaching – All New in Miami
In terms of coaching, everything is new, everything is different, and I hope some things are better. Mike McDaniel is certainly one of the best offensive coordinators in the NFL, but in some situations, he was repeatedly overwhelmed by the head coaching position. He also created a certainly good atmosphere in the locker room, but apparently, this smoothed out all edges and, according to former players and some preseason opponents from last season, shaped the Dolphins into a "pleasant, soft" team.
That only works to a limited extent in one of the most physical sports. His mantra was "Speed wins," and that worked well until every opponent understood it; he had no Plan B. Jeff Hafley comes from the completely opposite direction; he was Defensive Coordinator for the Green Bay Packers and relies much more on physicality and internal team competition (at least, the draft and preparations so far suggest this). It's certainly no mistake that General Manager Jon-Eric Sullivan, Hafley, and Malik Willis know each other from the Packers organization.
Offensively, Bobby Slowik takes over. In his previous positions, he was heavily influenced by the Shanahans, and his concepts can certainly fit the current roster around Willis and Achane. It will be interesting to see how the newcomers prove themselves in their positions and how much time they will be given, because a successful season (if the final record is used as a benchmark) will not happen despite all efforts.
Offense – Lots of Running This Year
No player on the Dolphins is being watched with more interest than Malik Willis; he's getting about $67.5 million over three years – an amount that certainly inspires belief that Willis will be given a chance to prove himself and not just lead a "tanking" season.
His appearances as a substitute for the injured Jordan Love in Green Bay definitely showed that he has potential. His physical strength and speed will make it harder for defenses to focus on Achane (and other RBs) in the run game, adding a new dimension to the attack.
However, this will also be necessary, as the receivers have taken the biggest step back on the roster, losing a lot of quality and speed with the departures of Waddle and Hill. Provocatively speaking, the Phins will run for their lives. On the positive side, it must be mentioned that they finally addressed the Offensive Line and specifically added rookies in the draft. The aforementioned Devon Achane is the only real fixed point of the offense, where you know what you're getting, and he will be a pillar of the future direction.
Defense – All About Youth
Almost everything in the defense is also in transition, with Bradley Chubb and Minkah Fitzpatrick, the Dolphins have lost two prominent veterans. In general, the defense has fewer established stars, but several young players who will have to take on significantly larger roles in 2026.
First and foremost, Chop Robinson, for whom it will no longer be enough to occasionally stand out as an explosive pass rusher. Miami needs him consistently as one of the most important players in the front seven. It will be interesting to see how Chris Johnson integrates; he was picked at the end of the first round of the draft to solve or at least improve the long-standing problems at the cornerback position. Cam Smith recently proved that this doesn't always work with a draft pick. However, the potential for a future CB1 is certainly there.
It is to be expected, however, that opposing QBs will exploit the inexperience, especially in the secondary, and it will take time to develop routine here. Time that the still young and inexperienced Phins defense will not get from their opponents.
Outlook – A Season of Rebuilding
Malik Willis has a full season with hardly any expectations to fulfill to prove himself. Miami will ultimately have a good draft position for 2027, and Willis will either be replaced by the #1 pick, or he will ensure that the Dolphins see him as an option for the future and can fix other problem areas in the early rounds.
Due to the extremely difficult schedule (second hardest schedule in the NFL with .542) and the many construction sites, I see the Dolphins as a team that might occasionally surprise, but if everything goes wrong, they are definitely a strong contender for the #1 pick (if it weren't for the Jets and Browns, I would even say they are the definite starter for the #1 pick).
Prediction: 2-15
New York Jets
Is the rebuild taking shape? (2025: 3-14) by DM79
The 2025 season can certainly be described as a disaster from the Jets' perspective, which, for the Jets of recent years, is nothing particularly noteworthy. The constant change of Head Coaches and the burning through of 1st-round quarterback picks (see Sam Darnold as an example that it's not necessarily the player's fault ;) ), has led to not expecting much for 2026 either.
However, in the 2025 season, the Jets also recognized that the current path was leading nowhere and collected a lot of draft capital for a fresh start through several trades. Especially the defense is actually completely new, and in the offense, Geno Smith (who also had a tough time in Las Vegas) replaces Justin Fields.
It will certainly be exciting to see how long Aaron Glenn is given to achieve a turnaround or at least to inspire hope for one.
Coaching – Aaron Glenn's Second (and Last) Chance
Honestly, I didn't expect Aaron Glenn to still be around after last season. He's a defensively oriented coach, and even the defense, which by Jets standards was usually the most respectable, was really bad under him. They didn't even record a single (0) interception.
Twelve of the 22 coaches were replaced, and probably most importantly, Tanner Engstrand as Offensive Coordinator was replaced by Frank Reich, meaning an inexperienced coordinator by a very experienced one, which should really help the Jets' offense.
This allows Glenn to delegate significantly more responsibility and concentrate more on defense, working with Brian Duker in his domain. This new allocation should lead to processes, and thus the Jets in general, functioning better than in 2025.
Offense – Can Geno Smith Stabilize the QB Position?
The most obvious change is the quarterback switch from Justin Fields to Geno Smith. Both had a year to forget in 2025, but Geno Smith can certainly do better than what was seen from him in Las Vegas with 17 interceptions. At 35, he's certainly not the QB of the future, but a solid bridge and a good mentor for the future QB1 (whoever that may be).
With Garrett Wilson, the WR additions of Adonai Mitchell (trade) and Omar Cooper Jr. (draft), as well as RB1 Breece Hall, a better offensive line (even though Alijah Vera-Tucker was lost to the Pats) than in Las Vegas, and Frank Reich's experience, one or two surprises could be in store.
Defense – Almost a Complete Fresh Start
Defensively, the team's overhaul is even more radical than on offense, and there will be a multitude of new starters – a fresh start, not an adjustment of the usual magnitude. In 2025, they still started with Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams, who were among the best players at their positions, yet, as mentioned in the opening statement, the entire unit did not function.
With the trades of both to the Colts and Cowboys, the capital for the upcoming drafts and thus for the new beginning was laid. Instead of investing a lot of money in a few stars, they are now focusing on youth and roster volume. An obvious risk that can, however, be rewarded, and after 2025, something had to change.
It will be exciting to see how David Bailey performs as the #2 pick as a pass rusher, and also how the rest of the new building blocks (T’Vondre Sweat, David Onyemata, Kingsley Enagbare, Demario Davis, Mikah Fitzpatrick, …) work for the Jets and whether the defense thus performs significantly better than in 2025. Beating the bar of zero interceptions should definitely be achievable.
The Forecast
The Jets probably have more upside than one might assume after 2025. Certainly, they are significantly behind the Pats and Bills in the AFC East, but also ahead of the Phins this year. The team has a reasonable mix of experience and development potential.
The offense and defense will take a step forward and be better than in 2025, but the complete turnaround will take time. I think they will win against weaker opponents more often, but still won't have a great season record (solely due to the four losses against the Pats and Bills).
Prediction: 6-11
New England Patriots
From Surprise Team to Champion? (2025: 14-3, Super Bowl Loss) by DM79
That's how fast it can go: in 2025, the Patriots were a team from which progress was expected – the season ended with them as Super Bowl runners-up. In 2026, nothing less will naturally be expected, but is that realistic?
The 14-3 season, the AFC East title, and reaching the Super Bowl were among the surprises of 2025 – it was well-deserved and hard-earned, but the Pats might also have been underestimated and had a relatively easy schedule (2nd easiest with .391). The latter definitely changes in 2026, and with .531, they have the sixth-hardest "Strength of Schedule" in the league.
But they have also strengthened in key areas and are thus certainly among the contenders in the AFC East and, if all goes well, beyond.
Coaching – Where Can Vrabel Lead the Pats?
Mike Vrabel has turned New England into a tough-to-play team that defines itself by physicality and discipline. His philosophy is to be physically strong and hard to predict in every phase. Vrabel and A.J. Brown already know each other from their time with the Tennessee Titans, and he will fit very well into the system.
Offensive Coordinator Josh McDaniels was retained, which is particularly important for a still young QB like Drake Maye, and defensively, I don't see the change as serious. While Zak Kuhr has officially taken over, he practically already partially performed the role in 2025 when Terrell Williams had to step down due to health issues.
Offense – A.J. Brown will make an impact
I already mentioned it in the coaching section, and I am convinced that A.J. Brown will make an impact. Mike Vrabel knows him and knows what he brings to the table. In a season that was anything but rosy for the offense in Philadelphia, he still recorded more than 1000 receiving yards. In my opinion, his acquisition and that of Romeo Doubs are clear improvements in the receiver corps, and the two will harmonize very well with Drake Maye.
TreVeyon Henderson remains the most important element of the running game; his speed and his qualities as a receiver perfectly complement the offense's concept, and with Hunter Henry, they also have a very strong and reliable tight end.
Drake Maye himself already established himself among the best QBs in the NFL in 2025, and with the aforementioned acquisitions – and especially the strengthening of the OL by Alijah Vera-Tucker – one of the main problems of 2025 is now being addressed, because 21 sacks in four playoff games is too much to ultimately reach the top.
Defense – Targeted Reinforcements for an Already Very Strong Defense
The defense definitely does not need to be reinvented; it was already among the best in the NFL in 2025 and was clearly a decisive factor in making it to the Super Bowl. They finished the regular season as number four in points allowed and number eight in yards allowed.
For 2026, they have tried to specifically address weaknesses and compensate for departures like K'Lavon Chaisson. On one hand, they brought in Dre'Mont Jones, and on the other, they traded up to draft Gabe Jacas in round two. The secondary should also be mentioned, which, led by Christian Gonzalez (with Carton Davis III, Marcus Jones, and Craig Woodson), represents a great strength of the Pats and is definitely unparalleled. It is one of the best areas on the Pats' roster.
The depth of the defense can be a decisive factor over a long season, and it has been known since last season that defense wins championships.
Outlook:
The Patriots will no longer be underestimated in 2026 and also have a far more difficult schedule situation than in 2025. But they also know what they are capable of and where they stand. In a league as strong as the NFL and with the possible effects of injuries, it is difficult to automatically predict a better or equally good record based on a 14-3 season and perhaps an even better roster.
It is also possible that they will narrowly lose 2-3 games that they were able to narrowly win in 2025. It will be a tight race in the AFC East with the Bills, and ultimately, luck and daily form will decide. However, I still believe that due to the coaching and the defense, they will narrowly come out on top.
Prediction: 13-4 Division Champ and Playoff Football
Buffalo Bills
(2025: 12-5, Loss Divisional Playoffs) by MatB
The kryptonite named Kansas City Chiefs and Patrick Mahomes spared the Buffalo Bills in the 2025 playoffs – only for them to then lose against the "one-legged" Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos led by HC Sean Payton.
Admittedly, the Bills' season was not necessarily their most consistent in recent years. Wins against teams like the Chiefs or Bucs were followed by losses against the Dolphins or Texans. This season cost HC Sean McDermott his job. After much back and forth, the former Offensive Coordinator Joe Brady became his successor. Pete Carmichael, who was poached from the Denver Broncos, became the new OC.
The Defensive Coordinator also changed; Jim Leonhard, who also came from the Denver Broncos and replaced Bobby Babich, is now in Buffalo. The Special Teams Coach was also replaced, with Jeff Rodgers taking over from Chris Tabor, who was pried away from the Arizona Cardinals. In total, 13 of the 26 coaches were replaced for the new season, making it 50%.
In my opinion, the offense had lost some of its explosiveness, yet they were #4 in yards. The #1 receiver or a reliable #1 target still couldn't be found, which puts a lot of pressure on Josh Allen's shoulders. However, the big problem, as I already suspected in previous previews, was the secondary and the run defense, which had never been the best in recent years.
Offense:
As already mentioned in the introduction: The offense was not as explosive in the passing game compared to the 2024 season, but there were again 17 pass catchers and eleven receivers with touchdowns. No one really stood out. Khalil Shakir was again the player with the most yards, followed by Dalton Kincaid, who made a "small" leap forward last season. However, both are far from the magical 1000-yard mark.
Neither Curtis Samuel nor Elijah Moore or Josh Palmer were the answer to the question of who could be the #1 receiver. For the new season, DJ Moore was now prised away from Chicago for a 2nd-rounder. In return, the Bills also received a 5th-rounder. Whether he can build on his Carolina seasons and his first season in Chicago remains to be seen.
However, the offense was carried by the run game last year. Led by James Cook, who was #1 in the entire NFL with 2,714 yards. Such a dominant run game only works with a very well-functioning O-Line. Behind such an offense, the run game should create the necessary gaps for the pass game. The offense should, in my opinion, be better again.
Defense:
A football game has three phases: offense, defense, and special teams. If only two of them work, it gets difficult; if only one of them works, well, you know yourselves….
With the Bills last season, it was difficult for all three phases to work – especially the defense and partly the special teams couldn't keep up.
The defense was boosted last year with Joe Bosa. He was supposed to put pressure on the QB, but that wasn't necessary as the defense was #5 in the negative sense against the run – a whopping 2,315 yards were allowed. In terms of touchdowns allowed after runs, the Bills were even last with 24.
The Front-7 was replaced here. Joey Bosa, Matthew Judon, Shaq Lawson, DaQuan Jones, and E.J. Epenesa had to leave the Bills and the new Highmark Stadium. In return, Bradley Chubb arrived; he is now supposed to plug the holes against the run. In the draft, T.J. Parker was also added in Round 2, who should have an immediate impact.
Outlook:
The Bills are playing in the new Highmark Stadium this year, costing 2.2 billion – yes, you read that right, billions. Also, again a stadium without a roof, so that the home advantage in the north of the USA, near Niagara Falls, remains as before. The offense should not be the problem this season – if the defense takes a step forward, anything should be possible.
As often written: As long as Josh Allen stays healthy and plays under center in New York State, anything is possible. With fan glasses, I would wish the Bills and their fans – one of the best fan bases in the NFL, the Bills Mafia – the longed-for first Super Bowl ring.
However, the schedule is not one of the easiest, especially at the beginning: Texans, Lions, Chargers, Patriots, and Rams in the first five weeks.
Prediction: 12-5 and Playoff Football, where anything is possible
AFC South (by patrick__R, austrianviking and MatB)
Houston Texans
(2025: 12-5, Loss in the Divisional Round) by patrick__R
From 2020 to 2022, the Texans were almost a guaranteed win, a franchise that at most organized football-like events and was allowed to call itself an NFL team – but since 2023, they have managed to play good football again.
Last season, they achieved a 12-5 record and also finished second in the AFC South. They won their last nine regular season games in a row. In the Divisional Round, they were ultimately eliminated by the eventual AFC Champions from New England. Expectations for this season are accordingly high. I don't see many reasons why last season's success shouldn't be repeated.
Offense:
C.J. Stroud remains unchanged at the quarterback position. However, if Houston aims for a Super Bowl in the next few years, the 24-year-old QB needs to step up his game even further. An improved O-Line this season could help him achieve this. Among the additions are former Pro Bowler Wyatt Teller, who has already peaked but still represents a solid option, 1st-round pick Keylan Rutledge, and the new starting center, Evan Brown.
Dalton Schultz remains at Tight End. Last year, in his eighth NFL season, he had his second-best season ever in terms of yards. The offense for 2026 is rounded off with familiar names such as Nico Collins (2025: 1,117 Receiving Yards, 6 TDs) and David Montgomery (2025: 716 Rushing Yards, 8 TDs).
Defense:
The Texans will primarily remain a defensive team in the coming year. They were largely able to retain last season's starters, and departures were at least compensated for with equally skilled players. Reed Blankenship comes from the Philadelphia Eagles at the safety position and will likely start directly in Week 1 in this strong defensive unit.
With Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr., they also have one of the best defensive end pairings in the league. Together, they accounted for a total of 27 sacks last season and were both in the top 10 league-wide. With Jadeveon Clowney, they also have a notable backup in case of an injury. Otherwise, I don't have much else to say about the Texans' defense, except that opponents should brace themselves!
Outlook:
Overall, the Texans won't make a big leap forward, but they haven't gotten worse either. Looking at the schedule, I expect another 12-5 season.
Prediction: 12-5 Playoff Football
Jacksonville Jaguars
(2025: 13-4, Divisional Win, Loss Wildcard Games) by patrick__R
Similar to their division rivals in Houston, the Jaguars hit the turbo towards the end of the regular season. After the bye week in Week 8, they won nine of their ten remaining games (averaging 32 points scored per game!) and thus secured the AFC South title.
A 13-4 record was ultimately recorded. They eventually lost in the Wildcard round against the Buffalo Bills. The playoffs will definitely be the goal again this year.
Offense:
The offense largely remains the same from last season. Trevor Lawrence had his best year yet last year. Major changes are therefore not necessary. One thing will hurt, however: Running back Travis Etienne was lost to the New Orleans Saints in free agency. Therefore, they now have to do without their "number one RB" from last season. They have not brought in an equally good replacement, at least not yet.
Bayshul Tuten and Chris Rodriguez Jr. will compete for snaps at the running back position and will have to prove themselves. The impact of Etienne's loss remains to be seen. Another reason for Lawrence's best year to date in 2025 was certainly the solid pass protection from the tackles. In the interior line, there were and will continue to be some problems in the upcoming season. 2026 3rd-round pick Emmanuel Pregnon is supposed to help at guard.
Defense:
The defense should also remain one of the better ones in the NFL. The biggest loss in the offseason is probably linebacker Devin Lloyd, who now plays for the Panthers. However, with Ventrell Miller, Oluokun, and Tavai, they still have solid options here. Due to the loss of Greg Newsome to the Giants, dual-threat Travis Hunter, who can play as a wide receiver and cornerback, will now primarily play as a cornerback.
In a league like the NFL, it is almost impossible to play two such different positions at a top level simultaneously. Therefore, it only makes sense to now let Hunter concentrate on his better position when help is needed there. Otherwise, the defense is solidly positioned overall. A "player to watch" is definitely 2023 5th-round pick Antonio Johnson, who was the best safety in the league last season according to PFF grading.
Outlook:
The Jaguars are not making big changes. It looks like they are not yet reaching for the stars (Super Bowl), but it could certainly be enough for the playoffs again. They will definitely be fighting for the division title again.
Prediction: 11-6 Playoff Football
Indianapolis Colts
(2025: 8-9) by austrianviking
The Indianapolis Colts remain the prime example of a franchise stuck in perennial mediocrity.
2025 brought a furious start with Daniel Jones, the Sauce Gardner trade, Jones' injury implosion, the Philip Rivers interlude, and the total collapse – ending again at 8-9. More exciting than before, but not better sportingly.
Carlie Irsay-Gordon continues to monitor the airwaves and allowed GM Chris Ballard and Head Coach Shane Steichen to survive. Ballard remains a master of job retention and "stuck in the middle" roster building. Steichen is the cunning offensive play-caller with a "grab bag" approach who would deserve higher duties.
Offense:
Daniel Jones is an average starter who turns hot streaks into fat contracts. His 2025 start was a product of strong infrastructure and a laughable schedule – not replicable. His injury history is. Nevertheless, there was an $88 million extension (up to $100 million possible) because without draft picks, their hands were tied, and Anthony Richardson remains only a backup as damaged goods. Jones is expected to be fit for Week 1, but in seven years, he has only played all games exactly once.
The O-Line, with Bernhard Raimann and Quenton Nelson, remains near Top-5. Jonathan Taylor delivers elite numbers. In the passing game, Michael Pittman is missing. Alec Pierce and Josh Downs are supposed to make up for it, Tyler Warren is the second-year Swiss Army knife. Keenan Allen complements as a third receiver. The offense can be historically productive under Steichen – if Jones stays healthy. Without top-QB-level play, it remains limited.
Defense:
A "bend but don’t break" unit that was massively rebuilt (around seven starters gone). Fixed points: DeForest Buckner up front and the corner duo Sauce Gardner/Charvarius Ward in the back – if both are fit, it's one of the best man-coverage duos in the league. Gardner only played four games in 2025.
X-factor: Laiatu Latu, who increased his pressure rate to 14% and could establish himself as a Tier-2 pass rusher. Lou Anarumo has tools, but the unit remains an unknown after the rebuild.
Outlook:
A good team with a mediocre, injury-prone quarterback and a front office that cannot decide between attacking and rebuilding. Everything depends on Jones. The schedule starts brutally, the rest is milder (PFF Expected Wins around 7.7–8.5). Two teams in the AFC South are better positioned. 2025 showed that it can work. Betting on it is not advisable.
Prediction: 8-9
Tennessee Titans
(2025: 3-14) by MatB
After the #1 seed in the 2025 draft, things weren't much better in Music City last season. Just like the New York Jets, Las Vegas Raiders, and Arizona Cardinals, they only had three wins to their name.
Few expected the Week 16 victory against the Kansas City Chiefs, which cost them the #1 pick in the 2026 draft, making it only pick #4 – although Cam Ward has already shown some flashes of an NFL quarterback. On offense, they were #31 in yards and #31 in touchdowns scored.
The defense, however, was already in the middle of the pack everywhere. Now, Robert Saleh is in charge in Nashville, after Brian Callahan had to step down last season following a 1-5 start. Saleh now has his second chance as Head Coach; many of you will remember how his first Head Coach attempt went. Keyword: Jets. With Brian Daboll, the former New York Giants Head Coach, a new Offensive Coordinator was brought in, who had previously successfully held the same position in Buffalo.
Offense:
The Tennessee Titans are one of the youngest teams in the league. With Cam Ward, they also have one of the younger QBs in the NFL. But they lost their center, Lloyd Cushenberry. In the draft, however, a #1 receiver was sought for Cam Ward and found at #4 with Carnell Tate. Alongside WR Ridley and RB Pollard, this could already be progress this season.
WR Wan’Dale Robinson also joined, a receiver who came from the Giants after a 1000-yard season. But the O-Line has to make a huge leap forward; Cam Ward was sacked 55 times last season, sharing the "shameful" #1 spot in the league with Geno Smith.
Defense:
As already mentioned, the defense was in the middle of the pack in the league. In the draft, after a trade with the Bills, DE Keldric Faulk was acquired at #31, as well as LB Anthony Hill Jr. in Round 2. The secondary was also strengthened with Alontae Taylor, who played 96.2% of snaps in New Orleans last season. The edge group was heavily rotated. Jacob Martin came from the Commanders, Jermaine Johnson II from the Jets, and John Franklin-Myers from the Broncos.
Outlook:
It can only be better than the past two years. A lot has happened in Music City. There's no doubt talent is present; now it just needs to be put on the field. Robert Saleh probably has his last chance as Head Coach, and there are easier tasks. For the offense, he has recruited one of the best in the business – none other than the one who shaped Josh Allen. If he can do the same with Cam Ward, a spot in the lower midfield of the league should be possible.
Prediction: 6-11
AFC West (by DM79)
Las Vegas Raiders
Now for real…probably (2025: 3-14)
Las Vegas is starting fresh after a disastrous season, and I think they've done a lot right with the signing of Fernando Mendoza as the #1 overall pick, as well as Kirk Cousins. Mendoza doesn't have to deliver immediately and can benefit from Cousins' experience in the long run.
The goal must be for Klint Kubiak, as the new Head Coach, to lay a foundation for future success. It certainly doesn't hurt that Maxx Crosby, as one of the team's leaders, is still (or almost back) on board. This year, they will probably only finish fourth in a strong AFC West, but they now have a plausible plan that needs to be executed.
Coaching – Change for good:
The change from Pete Carroll to Klint Kubiak is a complete fresh start and, of course, also a risk, as the latter is taking on the Head Coaching position for the first time. After a 3-14 season, however, one can risk something, because there's not much more to lose (see the Jets). He must succeed in establishing a culture where everyone pulls together; he must lead the coaching staff, develop the players, and determine the long-term direction of the team.
On offense, he has three young offensive players at his disposal in Mendoza, Jeanty, and Bowers, who can shape the franchise long-term. With Andrew Janocko as Offensive Coordinator, he has a trusted confidant at his side, with whom he will certainly harmonize, as Janocko was the Quarterback Coach of the Hawks in 2025. On the other side, Rob Leonard, as Defensive Coordinator, has been with the Vegas franchise since 2023.
Offense – The Right Mix
The future of the Raiders franchise depends on no one more than the development of Fernando Mendoza. It is certainly not a mistake if Kirk Cousins starts at the beginning of the season, but I am convinced that Mendoza will take over by mid-season at the latest (perhaps even earlier). He won the Heisman Trophy and led Indiana to the National Championship. He completed approximately 72 percent of his passes and threw 41 touchdowns with only six interceptions. This sounds very promising at first, but not every Heisman Trophy winner has been a stroke of luck in the NFL (looking at you, Tim Tebow).
I also think that Ashton Jeanty can benefit from Kubiak's system. He is the clear RB1, and his importance for the offense will be enormous, because if the run game works, the new QBs will also have an easier time settling in. All of this is rounded off by Brock Bowers, probably the Raiders' best offensive player currently.
I see the biggest weaknesses at wide receiver and on the O-Line. For the wide receivers, it remains to be seen whether the acquisition of Jalen Nailor brings the desired upgrade. With Tyler Linderbaum, an important position has also been strengthened, and as center, he not only improves one position but the hope is that he will improve the communication of the entire line. The OL will not be "Elite," but should function better than in 2025.
Defense – Maxx Crosby Remains the Cornerstone of the Defense
With Crosby, Las Vegas possesses an elite player around whom Rob Leonard can structure the rest of the defense. He allows younger players to get more favorable matchups, and that is extremely valuable for a team in transition. In addition, Kwity Paye arrived; if he fulfills his role as intended, then the pass rush can become a real strength.
The linebackers have also received an upgrade, and Nakobe Dean and Quay Walker have been given long-term contracts and are expected to make a difference with their athleticism. The secondary is better than last season, but certainly not great. The rookies will bring their speed, but will also make coverage errors, and in a division with quarterbacks like Mahomes, Herbert, and Nix, that certainly won't be easy.
Last but not least, Rob Leonard is also a question mark, because although he may have earned the chance, it is his first time as Defensive Coordinator.
Outlook – The Direction is Right
I believe that the Raiders have taken the right steps and will, in all likelihood, perform significantly better than in 2025. But in the AFC West, "better" will not be enough to be good right away in the first attempt, nor to have a say in the division.
Las Vegas is, in a difficult-to-predict AFC West, my only constant in last place this year (unless a miracle happens), but if positive development is recognized, they stick with it, and work continuously, then a lot is certainly possible in 2027.
Prediction: 6-11
Kansas City Chiefs
Quo Vadis Chiefs Dynasty (2025: 6-11)
The Chiefs are the hardest for me to predict. It was Patrick Mahomes' first truly serious injury with his ACL tear in the 2025 season, and there are therefore few indications of how well he will return. As of now, everything suggests he will start in Week 1.
There's no point speculating whether Justin Fields is a better backup than Gardner Minshew; if Mahomes can't return to his old form, the Chiefs won't go far. But I'm confident - and Andy Reid also doesn't have two negative seasons in a row on his record. Eric Bieniemy's return also gives hope for a rebound.
Coaching – The Important Return
The concluding sentence of the introduction will immediately transition, because I truly believe Eric Bieniemy's return is a major factor in the offense performing better again. He replaces Matt Nagy, under whom there was a steady downward trend from 2023 to 2025. While they were still ninth in yards gained and fifteenth in points scored in 2023, by 2025 they were only twentieth and twenty-first, respectively.
That is certainly not the standard for such an offense. With Andy Reid and Steve Spagnuolo, the rest of the core remains. I believe this was absolutely the right step for both sides regarding the offense and certainly an upgrade for the Chiefs.
Offense – How Well Will Mahomes Return?
Every starting QB is important for their team, but a Patrick Mahomes is (currently) irreplaceable for the Chiefs. When Mahomes was fully cleared for training camp at the end of July, it significantly changed the outlook for the offense, the Chiefs, and the AFC West. But there's no guarantee that and how the knee will hold up for 17 regular season games.
Kenneth Walker III will also be a major factor. He received a 3-year, $45 million contract and is expected to bring the necessary explosiveness to the Chiefs' running game. Even with the Seahawks, I was impressed not only by the number of yards he gained, but also by the fact that he rarely fumbled (1x in the entire season and not as a runner). This trust in a running back is extremely important and will make Mahomes' life easier.
The same cannot be said with certainty about the wide receivers. With Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy, as well as Tyquan Thornton and rookie Cyrus Allen, they are not exactly entering the season with the strongest receiver corps. I am personally curious to see how Travis Kelce will perform in his (probably) last season.
Defense – Secondary in Transition
Trent McDuffie, Jaylen Watson, Bryan Cook, Joshua Williams… all gone, and with them a significant portion of the 2025 Secondary. McDuffie's departure was certainly the most significant, as he was a multiple All-Pro. But they decided to trade him and invest the capital in a rebuild.
Therefore, Mansoor Delane must now deliver, for whom they specifically traded up, as much is expected of him. If he succeeds, the trade would have paid off completely, and they would have a strong corner on a rookie contract. In addition, L’Jarius Sneed returns to Kansas City; his contract is relatively inexpensive at a maximum of $5 million, and he already knows Coordinator Spagnuolo's concept. One can only hope he can shake off his injury bad luck from Tennessee.
The pass rush also focused on youth, drafting Peter Woods at position 29 and R Mason Thomas at position 40, both high picks. Both will probably not start immediately but are expected to complement the line, led by Chris Jones and Karlaftis, and later optimize it with their speed (especially Thomas). It remains to be seen whether the risk of replacing expensive experience with talented but inexperienced rookies in many places will pay off.
Outlook – It Will Be Close
Putting aside 2025, it seems almost unreal to write this, but I think in the highly competitive AFC West, the Chiefs will only manage third place. I simply see the Chargers and Broncos ahead this year. Perhaps this prediction will come back to haunt me, but there are simply too many unknowns for me, and they have the fifth-hardest schedule with .536, so I say it will be a third-place finish, which might even be enough for a Wildcard Round appearance. But who knows, with Patrick Mahomes, anything is possible.
Prediction: 9-8
Los Angeles Chargers
Time to Prove Themselves (2025: 11-6, Loss in the Wildcard Games)
The Los Angeles Chargers might be one of the most interesting teams in 2026. One could say that 2025 wasn't bad at all, as they had a good 11-6 record and achieved eleven wins for the second time in the Jim Harbaugh era. In the playoffs, however, the abrupt end came, as so often, and they had to concede defeat to the Patriots 3-16.
With a QB like Justin Herbert, that's certainly not the standard. They reacted by bringing in Mike McDaniel, one of the most creative Offensive Coordinators in the NFL. This raises the offensive ceiling higher than in all previous seasons under Harbaugh, and the goal should at least be the AFC West title.
Coaching – The McDaniel Factor
Jim Harbaugh is the constant; everything else is in flux. That pretty much sums up the coaching, and I believe that's a good thing, at least on the offensive side. As mentioned earlier, I consider Mike McDaniel to be a creative and extremely talented Offensive Coordinator. He will greatly benefit the offense and Justin Herbert, incorporating more variable components that will prevent defenses from focusing almost exclusively on Herbert.
Defensively, Chris O’Leary takes over for Jesse Minter. Minter's performance in LA earned him the Head Coach position in Baltimore, leaving behind a very strong defense. O’Leary previously worked under Minter as Safeties Coach in 2024, so Chargers fans can hope that he will continue the work rather than radically changing something that's working, because the phrase "Chargers doing Chargers things…" doesn't come from nowhere.
Offense – The Herbert Question
Mike McDaniel gets Justin Herbert and vice versa. Herbert is the clear foundation of the offense, and that was so obvious that opponents like the Patriots could figure out who carried the load and sacked him six times in the Wild Card Round. As a result, the Chargers only managed to score three points. McDaniel must therefore strengthen the variable element, and I am convinced that he will.
He will try to force decisions on defenses and, for example, reveal their coverage through pre-snap motions. He will try to utilize Herbert's arm strength but also allow him simple completions, thus moving away from many "3rd and long" situations.
With Omarion Hampton and Keaton Mitchell, they have an interesting running back combination; Hampton is the RB1, and the mix of his physical strength and Mitchell's explosive speed fit perfectly together. Ladd McConkey remains the most important receiver and factor to utilize Herbert's throwing power.
The offensive line shows that while you can have a plan and implement it, injuries can change everything. While they brought Tyler Biadasz from the Commanders for stability at the center position, they immediately had to put him on the IR list (Injured Reserve), and whether rookie Jake Slaughter can replace him is more than questionable. This leaves a big question mark on the offensive line.
Defense – Will Good Work Continue?
The Chargers' defense was good and certainly not the reason they fell short of expectations. There's no reason to reinvent the wheel here. The Bolts brought in O'Leary precisely because he had already worked under Minter in 2024, doing very good work with the safeties at the time, and is expected to continue what was built.
Khalil Mack was extended for another year for $18 million because his experience at 35 will be very valuable for the rest of the team and also gives Akheem Mesidor time not to have to be perfect immediately. The secondary remains stable, with Derwin James Jr. at its center. This stability will be important under the new regime.
If O'Leary does well, consistently continues the work, and the rookies, especially Mesidor, perform, then the Bolts' defense will continue to cause opponents headaches, but it is still to be feared that the transition could have a negative impact.
Outlook – Everything from 1st to 3rd Place is Possible, But These are the Chargers…
An 11-6 season is strong, two in a row are even stronger, but this year it should be even more. The goal cannot simply be to reach the playoffs; it must be to dethrone the Broncos and take the lead in the AFC West. McDaniel should shape the offense so that it forces defenses to defend the entire field and properly utilize Justin Herbert. The fight with Denver and the Chiefs will be brutal, but I still see the Broncos coming out on top in the end.
Prediction: 11-6
Denver Broncos
Will 2026 Go Even Further Than 2025? (2025: 14-3, Division Champ, Loss in the Conference Championship Game)
Denver is coming off a 14-3 season and was the #1 team in the AFC. They reached the AFC Championship Game and narrowly lost to the New England Patriots. This happened primarily because Bo Nix broke his ankle while "taking a knee" against the Buffalo Bills. Therefore, it was clear that they kept one of the most complete rosters together in the offseason and specifically improved it.
If they can maintain their 2025 form, then the goal this year must clearly be a Super Bowl appearance, and if they can avoid (unfortunate) injuries, then this is realistic. Probably one of the most complete teams with few obvious weaknesses.
Coaching – Sean Payton Stays, But Gives Up Play Calling
Sean Payton continues to manage the Broncos' affairs, and whether you like him or not, the turnaround under him is remarkable. He has made a complete 180-degree turn since taking over the Broncos in 2023 and has shaped a team to his vision. Now he is completely handing over offensive play-calling to Davis Webb.
The only 31-year-old was promoted from Passing Game Coordinator and Quarterback Coach to Offensive Coordinator. What makes it special, however, is that Sean Payton is making him the primary playcaller, which has rarely happened in his career. It shows the trust Payton has in Webb. Vance Joseph continues to direct the defense, but there was no reason for a change there after 2025.
Offense – Jaylen Waddle Brings Speed to Denver
Bo Nix is the clear starter, and it has been seen that while he may not be the most spectacular quarterback, he still makes a difference for Denver. I am quite sure that with him, they would have made it to the Super Bowl. But now he's back, has completed the entire preparation, and, according to his own statement, has no pain in his injured ankle.
The offensive line remained stable and, in my opinion, is a strength in direct comparison with the Chargers and the Chiefs. The wide receivers have been strengthened; on the one hand, Courtland Sutton is still on board, and on the other hand, Jaylen Waddle brings lightning-fast support from Miami. A combination that makes the Broncos' passing game even more dangerous.
In the backfield, continuity is maintained, as J.K. Dobbins and R.J. Harvey remain. In 2025, they were tenth in yards gained and fourteenth in points scored; the potential is there to add more in 2026.
Defense – Never Change a Running System
Following the motto that nothing that works needs to be changed, the focus in 2026 was on retaining the defense. In 2025, they produced 68 sacks, which was only four sacks below the 1984 Chicago Bears' record (okay, back then there were only 16 regular season games).
Pressure in this defense is generated by different players, and that makes it so difficult to defend. It has great depth and quality, as can be easily seen with Zach Allen, Nik Bonitto, Jonathon Cooper, to name just a few. The pass rush and the secondary are considered top units in the NFL.
Here, one should especially mention Nik Bonitto (4th place as AP Defensive Player of the Year 2025) with 14 sacks, as well as Riley Moss and Pat Surtain II with 19 (shared first place among all cornerbacks and safeties) and 12 passes defended, respectively. Vance Joseph has a wealth of options to choose from. If the defense manages to deliver an equivalent performance in 2026, then they can go very far.
Outlook – Will It Be the Big Success?
I consider the Broncos to be the strongest team in an overall strong AFC West. I rate them stronger than the Chiefs and more consistent than the Chargers. One gets the feeling that Sean Payton came to Denver in 2023 with a plan, and it's being executed year after year. Keeping Vance Joseph as Defensive Coordinator, as well as the core of the defense, was also an important step on the way to great success. Nevertheless, I expect this year that one or two close games might also go against the Broncos, as they had six wins by three or fewer points in 2025.
Prediction: 12-5 Division Champ and Playoff Football
