NFL’s underrated and overrated teams in 2026: NFC South could rise; Bears, Bills, Patriots tumble
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- As NFL training camps open, 10 teams have new head coaches, many have new coordinators, and players are settling in, setting the stage for the 2026 season.
- Underrated teams include the Atlanta Falcons, who have talent and a new coach in Kevin Stefanski, the Indianapolis Colts with a healthy Daniel Jones, the Cincinnati Bengals improving their defense, the Carolina Panthers building on recent progress, and the New Orleans Saints with promising offensive additions.
- Overrated teams highlighted are the Dallas Cowboys, who need defensive cohesion; the Buffalo Bills, facing coaching changes and adjustments; the Chicago Bears, with high expectations that may be hard to meet; the Philadelphia Eagles, undergoing significant roster and coaching changes; and the New England Patriots, aiming to improve after a strong but ultimately unsuccessful 2025 campaign.
- The analysis suggests some teams may outperform expectations due to new leadership and talent, while others may struggle due to transitions and high expectations.
