Predicting last-place finisher for each NFL division in 2026: Browns, Raiders, Commanders among possible duds
CBS Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- The 2026 NFL season opens with a Super Bowl rematch between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots on September 9, with all 32 teams having trimmed rosters to 53 players and aiming for playoff contention.
- The Miami Dolphins are projected to finish last in the AFC East due to an NFL-record $181.6 million dead salary cap hit and a roster focused on rebuilding through rookie starters and short-term contracts.
- The Cleveland Browns are expected to struggle again in the AFC North, relying on an injury-prone and underperforming Deshaun Watson, with backup Shedeur Sanders facing significant pressure and poor performance metrics.
- The Tennessee Titans, Las Vegas Raiders, Washington Commanders, Minnesota Vikings, Atlanta Falcons, and Arizona Cardinals are all predicted to finish last in their respective divisions due to a combination of injuries, weak offensive lines, lack of impactful players, and tough division competition.
- Key issues across these teams include quarterback injuries and inconsistency, underperforming offenses, defensive weaknesses, and roster rebuilding phases, suggesting challenging seasons ahead for these franchises.
