The NFL has embraced the NBA’s trend of special uniforms for rivalry games, extending the practice to the AFC South and NFC North. Some of these designs are quite striking and could be seen as iconic, while others… well, they’re just here.
This year’s selections aren’t truly ugly, yet some uniforms attempt to capture their city’s essence but instead come off as bland imitations of other teams. Let’s explore and rank the eight new uniforms from least to most impressive, while also highlighting when they’ll make their debut.
Will be worn Week 16 vs. Packers
Perhaps this might look better on a player, but I have my doubts. The design is meant to reflect the iconic Bears uniforms, which I appreciate — although it’s rather subtle. The numbers aren’t great, and overall, the uniform feels like a less impressive version of their existing one. Honestly, it’s the least appealing of the new looks this year, which is disappointing for a team with so much potential in 2026.
Will be worn Week 8 vs. Vikings
There’s really nothing wrong with this jersey, except it seems like it’s been lifted straight from the Carolina Panthers. Apart from the blue hue, it closely resembles the Panthers’ white uniforms. The carbon fiber number design feels a bit cliché, and a grey option would have given a more distinct character to the team.
No. 6: Indianapolis Colts
Will be worn Week 3 vs. Texans
Honestly, the glossy black finish feels excessive, giving the jersey a vibe that resembles something from a temporary mall vendor doing iron-on prints. The shoulder design comes across as abrupt, lacking the essence of the Colts’ identity, and instead, calls to mind a Steelers rivalry jersey adorned with rivets. It doesn’t truly reflect the Colts’ spirit.
Will be worn Week 15 vs. Lions
The arm bands really define this look, which is a positive aspect. I appreciate the Norse knot design and the gold accents; however, the rest of the uniform feels a little too reminiscent of a Baltimore Ravens alternate. It’s an odd case where the subtlety might be holding it back from feeling truly special.
Will be worn Week 11 vs. Colts
There’s potential here, but it feels a bit incomplete. The Texans seem to be drawing inspiration from the history of the Houston Oilers, which is great in theory—perhaps they should own that legacy. Yet, the execution leaves something to be desired. The numbering appears off, the arm bands are chaotic, and I’m not enthusiastic about the predominant use of white in the alternate Texans logo.
Will be worn Week 10 vs. Jaguars
I have to give credit here for not trying to imitate the Oilers’ history as the Titans usually do. I feel this could be the direction the franchise should take going forward, exploring diverse blue shades that set them apart from others in the league. I really like the “Music City” branding, and the numbering reminds me of a neon bar sign, which is great. Overall, it’s a strong uniform.
No. 2: Jacksonville Jaguars
Will be worn Week 8 vs. Colts
I really dig these uniforms. If they had been included in last year’s update, there’s a good chance they would have topped the list, but as it stands, they’re just shy of that in 2026. The way they evoke the Jaguars’ history is spot on and perfectly captures the late ’90s vibe. They’re sleek, understated, and might even surpass their standard uniforms.
