4 NFL teams who didn’t make the playoffs, but will in 2026
SB Nation • • sports
Key Points:
- The 2026 NFL season sees 29 teams hopeful for playoff contention, while the Dolphins, Cardinals, and Jets continue rebuilding with a focus on future quarterbacks.
- The Detroit Lions are poised for a strong bounce-back after an injury-plagued 2025, benefiting from improved health, key free-agent depth additions, and an easier schedule, making them likely playoff contenders.
- The Indianapolis Colts, often overlooked, have retained their core players and will have a healthy Daniel Jones and Sauce Gardner, positioning them as a potential Wild Card team in the AFC South.
- The New York Giants could surprise in the NFC East due to John Harbaugh’s coaching, a strong draft class, and a chaotic division, though their success depends on key players staying healthy.
- The Kansas City Chiefs, despite a poor 2025 season with many close losses, are expected to rebound with Patrick Mahomes potentially returning early and new players integrating under coach Andy Reid.