NFL Strength of Schedule for All 32 Teams: Ranking the Easiest, Hardest Slates
Sports Illustrated • • general
Key Points:
- The 2026 NFL schedule release highlights the easiest and toughest team schedules using two methods: 2025 opponent winning percentages and Sharp Football Analysis's projected 2026 win percentages based on Vegas totals.
- The Browns have the easiest schedule based on 2025 data, but the Saints rank easiest when combining both lists, benefiting players like Tyler Shough, Travis Etienne Jr., and Chris Olave.
- The Bengals also enjoy a favorable schedule on both lists, boosting the fantasy value of stars like Joe Burrow, Chase Brown, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins.
- The Dolphins have the toughest schedule according to both metrics, followed by the Bears and Cardinals, which may impact fantasy expectations for certain players like Jacoby Brissett.
- While the strength of schedule data offers useful insights, it should not be solely relied upon for fantasy football valuations due to the variability and unpredictability of team performance year-to-year.