NFL Schedule Update

The NFL is currently in a bit of a quiet phase until training camp kicks off. With the 2026 NFL Draft looming, there’s a chance to reflect on how all 32 teams have revamped their rosters. It’s pretty clear that most teams have geared up for improvement; that’s just the way it goes. However, some teams have really gone all out to fill their gaps, while others seem more focused on long-term goals rather than immediate competition.

We’ve categorized the league into four tiers based on our predictions for the upcoming season.

Tank for No. 1 or Bust?

This year, with 2027 approaching, we’re looking at three teams that seem to have given up on competing. Each of these teams is searching for a franchise quarterback, and they’re poised to be in a prime position in what is shaping up to be a remarkable QB class. The fate of the draft may well hinge on who finishes at the bottom as they vie for one of the top three quarterbacks: Arch Manning, Dante Moore, or Julian Sane.

Playoff Potential

In a typical bell curve fashion, some teams are at the forefront of improvement, bolstered by their draft picks and free agency moves. They’ve made strides for sure. But there’s also a nagging concern whether they’re actually ready to elevate their game. It might come down to a few lingering weaknesses or simply being stuck in a division with more developed teams. It wouldn’t shock anyone to see these teams in the playoffs, but equally so, they could finish among the top five picks in the draft.

20. Washington Commanders

These teams have been pegged as potential division champions or promising wild card teams. There’s a noticeable split in this tier, especially in tougher divisions like the NFC South, featuring the Panthers and, right behind them, the Buccaneers. While there’s a slim chance for any of these teams to make a magical run to the Super Bowl, it’s hard to envision given the caliber of teams positioned higher on this list.

Ultimately, we’ve pinpointed seven teams that have a strong shot at making it to the Super Bowl in February. These include teams that were formidable last season, showed significant improvement this offseason, or are bouncing back from major injuries with something to prove in 2026. Any mix of these teams making it to the Super Bowl wouldn’t surprise us, and surely one of them will be lifting the Lombardi Trophy in the end.