NFL · 3 months ago

ESPN’s Early 2026 NFL Power Rankings: See Where All 32 Teams Rank

John Canady

Host · Writer

32) Cleveland Browns
2025 Record: 5‑12 | 4th in AFC North | Missed Playoffs

“The Browns need to add another playmaker at receiver and possibly replace as many as four starters on the offensive line.” — Daniel Oyefusi, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Reload the Offense

Cleveland is focused on overhauling its struggling offense. Key priorities include upgrading the offensive line, adding a top-tier receiver, and addressing the quarterback position through free agency or the draft. With Todd Monken now leading the unit, the Browns aim to become a more potent and balanced team in 2026.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +12500
1) Seattle Seahawks
2025 Record: 14-3 | NFC West Champions | Super Bowl LX Champions

“Two of the Seahawks’ best players, wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba and cornerback Devon Witherspoon, will be eligible for extensions that could each top $30 million per year. If general manager John Schneider is going to keep his Super Bowl team together, he’s going to spend a lot of Jody Allen’s money.” — Brady Henderson, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Pay the Core

The Seahawks must ante up to keep key pieces from their Super Bowl-winning roster intact if they want to make another run at a title. With major extensions looming for cornerstone players on both sides of the ball, Seattle’s front office faces a pivotal offseason where retaining elite talent takes priority over bargain hunting.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +750
2) New England Patriots
2025 Record: 14-3 | AFC East Champions | Super Bowl LX Runner-Up

“It will be harder to duplicate their 2025 draft class, but the goal of replenishing the roster with younger talent remains the same.” — Mike Reiss, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Find Value Late

After a surprising Super Bowl run, the Patriots won’t be drafting near the top of each round in 2026. That reality places even more importance on late-round picks and undrafted free agents as Mike Vrabel and the front office continue reshaping the roster with younger, cost-controlled talent to sustain their momentum.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +1700
3) Los Angeles Rams
2025 Record: 12‑5 | 2nd in NFC West | Lost in NFC Championship

“The first item will be deciding on a special teams coordinator, whether that means keeping Ben Kotwica or starting fresh at the position.” — Sarah Barshop, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Fix Special Teams

Los Angeles’ special teams unit was a clear weakness in 2025, contributing to multiple losses and costly miscues in LA's playoff defeat to the Seahawks. Head coach Sean McVay and general manager Les Snead must prioritize stabilizing that phase of the roster, starting with the decision at special teams coordinator and improving execution across kicking, coverage, and return units.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +800
4) Denver Broncos
2025 Record: 14‑3 | AFC West Champions | Lost in AFC Championship

“It will be difficult for them to escape the conclusion that a Super Bowl trip was hindered by their lack of impact on offense.” — Jeff Legwold, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Add Offensive Weapons

Denver’s offense struggled to generate big plays consistently despite a 14‑3 season. Improving explosive plays and overall offensive impact will be central to the Broncos' goal of converting a strong regular season into a Super Bowl run in 2026.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +2000
5) Buffalo Bills
2025 Record: 12‑5 | AFC East Runner-Up | Lost in Divisional Round

“The decisions made this offseason in the draft and free agency will go a long way in determining how successful Allen is for years to come.” — Alaina Getzenberg, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Handle the Pressure

With Sean McDermott gone, the pressure is on new coach Joe Brady and GM Brandon Beane to surround Josh Allen with the pieces he needs to reach a Super Bowl finally. Key offseason moves in the draft, free agency, and roster construction will set the tone for Buffalo’s immediate and long-term success.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +1200
6) San Francisco 49ers
2025 Record: 12‑5 | 3rd in NFC West | Won Wild Card, Lost Divisional Round

“Only quarterback Brock Purdy and cornerback Deommodore Lenoir have established themselves as part of the next foundation, which means it’s on the Niners to find more talent to sustain success.” — Nick Wagoner, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Build the Core

After exceeding expectations in 2025 despite injuries and roster turnover, the 49ers must focus on adding star power to complement their core. Key areas of focus include the pass rush and wide receiver groups, whether through the draft, trades, or free agency, to maintain competitiveness in the NFC for years to come.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +1800
7) Detroit Lions
2025 Record: 9‑8 | 4th in NFC North | Missed Playoffs

“The unit wasn't completely in sync and will look to get its 'swagger back' under new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing.” — Eric Woodyard, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Revamp the O-Line

After missing the playoffs, Detroit must focus on strengthening its offensive line, particularly the interior. With Dan Skipper retired and the unit struggling in pass protection, the Lions may target a guard early in the 2026 draft to help All-Pro tackle Penei Sewell and restore cohesion and confidence up front.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +1600
8) Philadelphia Eagles
2025 Record: 11‑6 | NFC East Champions | Lost in Wild Card Round

“There are major questions facing the group, including whether A.J. Brown will continue on in Philly or if the front office will feel compelled to trade him.” — Tim McManus, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Reignite the Offense

Philadelphia’s high-priced offense underperformed in 2025, ranking 21st in points per game and 19th in efficiency. With new offensive coordinator Sean Mannion bringing a modern approach, the Eagles must address inefficiencies and decide on key players, such as A.J. Brown, to reignite the offense in 2026.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +1500
9) Jacksonville Jaguars
2025 Record: 13‑4 | AFC South Champions | Lost in Wild Card Round

“Fixing [the pass rush] will likely come either via trade or free agency because they don't have a first-round pick after trading up for Travis Hunter in 2025.” — Mike DiRocco, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Boost the Pass Rush

Jacksonville showed strong pressure numbers in 2025 but struggled to convert pressures into sacks. The Jaguars must prioritize adding interior pass-rush help, whether through trades, free agency, or clever late-round selections, to turn consistent pressures into game-changing quarterback takedowns in 2026.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +2000
10) Green Bay Packers
2025 Record: 9‑7 | 2nd in NFC North | Lost in Wild Card Round

“While Policy said bowing out in the first round of the playoffs for the second straight season was disappointing, he felt the team had the right leadership in place.” — Rob Demovsky, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: One More Chance

Green Bay’s leadership remains intact with Matt LaFleur and Brian Gutekunst, but the Packers need to prove that their core can push further in 2026. Strengthening key positions, maintaining continuity, and adding playmakers will be crucial if they want to advance past the first round and finally make a Super Bowl run.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +1300
11) Chicago Bears
2025 Record: 11‑6 | NFC North Champions | Lost in Wild Card Round

“There's work to be done on the roster, notably with the pass rush, in free agency and the draft, but this is setting up to be a drama-free offseason.” — Courtney Cronin, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Keep It Simple

Chicago enters 2026 with stability at head coach and quarterback, allowing it to focus on incremental improvements rather than drastic changes. Key areas like the pass rush and depth additions in free agency and the draft will shape whether the Bears can turn a strong season into a contender without major drama.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +2700
12) Kansas City Chiefs
2025 Record: 6‑11 | 3rd in AFC West | Missed Playoffs

“With proper youth and the right veterans acquired, the Chiefs can restart their quest for another Super Bowl.” — Nate Taylor, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Rebuild Around Mahomes

With Patrick Mahomes rehabbing his knee, Kansas City must focus on roster upgrades to give him the best chance to succeed. Leveraging free agency and draft picks, Andy Reid and Brett Veach can add key contributors and start the process of returning the Chiefs to playoff contention.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +1600
13) Houston Texans
2025 Record: 12‑5 | AFC South Runner-Up | Lost in Divisional Round

“The offensive line and running back positions will be key spots to focus on, along with adding to the safety room.” — DJ Bien-Aime, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Make Minor Adjustments

With limited cap space, Houston must maximize every move in free agency and the draft to strengthen the roster. Key focus areas include the offensive line, running back room, and safeties, as the Texans look to turn a strong 12‑5 season into a true playoff breakthrough.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +2000
14) Baltimore Ravens
2025 Record: 8‑9 | 2nd in AFC North | Missed Playoffs

“Baltimore's new coaching staff will look to build a scheme around Jackson, who is coming off 2,549 passing yards and 21 touchdowns.” — Jamison Hensley, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Build Around Lamar

Baltimore’s priority is getting Lamar Jackson back on track while managing his $74.5 million cap hit. The front office must negotiate cap space and help the new coaching staff design an offense that maximizes Jackson’s strengths, ensuring the two-time NFL MVP can lead the team back to playoff contention in 2026.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +1200
15) Los Angeles Chargers
2025 Record: 11‑6 | 2nd in AFC West | Lost in Wild Card Round

“Tuipulotu's 13.5 sacks were the sixth most in the league, and keeping this group intact will be a top priority.” — Kris Rhim, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Secure the Pass Rush

The Chargers’ edge group was a major strength in 2025, but faces uncertainty with Khalil Mack and Odafe Oweh entering free agency, and Tuli Tuipulotu eligible for an extension. Los Angeles must make smart offseason moves to retain or replace key pass-rushers to maintain pressure on opposing quarterbacks and keep the defense among the league’s best.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +1500
16) Cincinnati Bengals
2025 Record: 6‑11 | 3rd in AFC North | Missed Playoffs

“Cincinnati cannot be passive in free agency when it comes to adding impactful players to the defense.” — Ben Baby, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Strengthen the Defense

Cincinnati’s defense struggled in 2025, ranking near the bottom in points allowed per drive. The Bengals must add playmakers at every level and continue developing key young defenders like Myles Murphy and DJ Turner II, using both free agency and the draft to rebuild a unit capable of keeping the team competitive in the AFC.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +3000
17) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
2025 Record: 8‑9 | 2nd in NFC South | Missed Playoffs

“The Buccaneers need to find more marquee players regardless, especially an edge rusher opposite YaYa Diaby.” — Jenna Laine, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Find their Edge

After a strong start in 2025, Tampa Bay fell short of the playoffs, exposing weaknesses on offense, defense, and special teams. The Bucs must focus on adding impactful players—particularly at edge rusher and skill positions—to get back into contention in 2026.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +5000
18) Dallas Cowboys
2025 Record: 7‑9‑1 | 2nd in NFC East | Missed Playoffs

“Now, they have to find Parker more talent after the defense allowed 511 points in 2025.” — Todd Archer, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Reinforce the Defense

Dallas’ defense struggled mightily in 2025, prompting a near-complete overhaul of the coaching staff. With two first-round picks and cap flexibility, the Cowboys must add talent through the draft and free agency while developing in-house players like DeMarvion Overshown, Shavon Revel Jr., Donovan Ezeiruaku, and DaRon Bland to stabilize the unit in 2026.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +3000
19) Indianapolis Colts
2025 Record: 8‑9 | 3rd in AFC South | Missed Playoffs

“Jones' long Achilles injury rehab looms over it all, and Indy will need to bolster its defensive front seven.” — Stephen Holder, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: One Last Chance

The Colts are sticking with Shane Steichen and Chris Ballard, aiming to maintain the momentum from their strong start in 2025. Key priorities include supporting quarterback Daniel Jones’ recovery, reinforcing the defensive front seven, and making strategic free-agent moves, particularly at wide receiver, to remain competitive in the AFC.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +4000
20) Washington Commanders
2025 Record: 5‑12 | 3rd in NFC East | Missed Playoffs

“They also need to add more explosiveness on offense, whether at tight end, receiver or both.” — John Keim, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Rebuild the Core

Washington is overhauling its coaching staff and must focus on talent acquisition to return to contention. With significant cap space but limited roster depth, the Commanders need to strategically add playmakers on offense and defense while staying healthy to get back on track in 2026.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +4500
21) Pittsburgh Steelers
2025 Record: 10‑7 | AFC North Champions| Lost in Wild Card Round

“The next priority is identifying the next franchise QB—either in the draft or via a bridge QB until the Steelers can secure their signal-caller of the future.” — Brooke Pryor, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Keep Building, Not Rebuilding

Pittsburgh enters 2026 with a new head coach but a roster that leadership believes is ready to contend. The focus will be on solidifying the quarterback position, completing the coaching staff, and making strategic roster moves to compete for a deeper playoff run without signaling a full rebuild.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +10000
22) Carolina Panthers
2025 Record: 8‑9 | 1st in NFC South | Lost in Wild Card Round

“Morgan also strongly believes ability and hope will attract top free agents.” — David Newton, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Build with Confidence

With stability in the coaching staff, Carolina can focus on adding depth and strengthening key positions around Bryce Young. Leveraging the draft and free agency, the Panthers aim to turn their NFC South title into sustained success and make a deeper playoff run in 2026.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +15000
23) Minnesota Vikings
2025 Record: 9‑8 | 3rd in NFC North | Missed Playoffs

“They need to upgrade their quarterback depth and address leadership with an interim structure led by Rob Brzezinski.” — Kevin Seifert, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Find an Answer

Minnesota faces uncertainty at both quarterback and front-office levels. The Vikings must bolster QB depth behind J.J. McCarthy and stabilize leadership during the interim period to remain competitive as they prepare for a permanent GM hire after the 2026 draft.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +5500
24) Atlanta Falcons
2025 Record: 8‑9 | 3rd in NFC South | Missed Playoffs

“The Falcons will need to address their depth, including at quarterback due to Michael Penix Jr.'s ACL surgery.” — Marc Raimondi, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Add Talent Everywhere

Atlanta has talent but struggled with injuries in 2025, exposing thin spots across the roster. The Falcons must reinforce key positions, particularly quarterback and the offensive line, while bolstering overall depth to ensure a more consistent and competitive 2026 season.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +5000
25) New York Giants
2025 Record: 4‑13 | 4th in NFC East | Missed Playoffs

“He has already made it known that anybody who doesn't love football will not be part of the team.” — Jordan Raanan, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Build Harbaugh’s Vision

With John Harbaugh now leading the Giants, the roster will be reshaped to fit his philosophy. Focus areas include strengthening the defense from the back end, adding a fullback, increasing physicality, and providing quarterback Jaxson Dart with more playmakers to improve offensive efficiency in 2026.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +7500
26) New Orleans Saints
2025 Record: 6‑11 | 4th in NFC South | Missed Playoffs

“Offense will be a priority, as they look to add more playmakers after losing several players to trades, releases and injuries.” — Katherine Terrell, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Build On Momentum

New Orleans enters 2026 looking to capitalize on a strong finish to 2025. With rookie QB Tyler Shough leading the offense, the Saints must add playmakers, improve offensive efficiency, and continue developing defensive standouts like Chase Young to become a more complete team next season.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +17500
27) Tennessee Titans
2025 Record: 3‑14 | 4th in AFC South | Missed Playoffs

“Tennessee lacks a true game changer who can dictate coverage assignments and be a scoring threat whenever he touches the ball.” — Turron Davenport, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Just Add Weapons

Tennessee struggled offensively in 2025, averaging just 16.7 points per game. The Titans need playmakers on both sides of the ball, including a scoring threat on offense and reinforcements at cornerback and pass rusher, to elevate the team and support rookie quarterback Cam Ward in his second season.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +15000
28) Arizona Cardinals
2025 Record: 3‑14 | 4th in NFC West | Missed Playoffs

“LaFleur will have to place his fingerprints all over the building, from his roster to the culture and everything in between.” — Josh Weinfuss, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Reset for LaFleur

Arizona is entering 2026 under new head coach Mike LaFleur, who will reshape the roster, culture, and offensive identity. Key decisions include the quarterback situation and establishing foundational pieces across the roster to put the Cardinals back on a competitive path.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +22500
29) Miami Dolphins
2025 Record: 7‑10 | 3rd in AFC East | Missed Playoffs

“Miami wants to establish a new culture—an act that often requires a shuffling of both players and personnel.” — Marcel Louis-Jacques, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Begin the Rebuild

With a new GM and head coach, Miami is set to overhaul its roster and culture. Key priorities include evaluating the quarterback position, shoring up weaknesses across the roster, and establishing a foundation for long-term success, even if that means a year-long rebuilding process in 2026.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +22500
30) Las Vegas Raiders
2025 Record: 3‑14 | 4th in AFC West | Missed Playoffs

“Outside of defensive end Maxx Crosby, the Raiders struggled to provide consistent pressure on the quarterback.” — Ryan McFadden, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Revamp the Trenches

Las Vegas must improve both its offensive and defensive lines to maximize the potential of coach Klint Kubiak and key skill players like Ashton Jeanty, Brock Bowers, and projected QB Fernando Mendoza. Reinforcing the trenches will be critical for generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks and protecting the team’s own offensive weapons in 2026.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +12500
31) New York Jets
2025 Record: 3‑14 | 4th in AFC East | Missed Playoffs

“Glenn overhauled his staff, creating the perception of a dysfunctional team starting from square one.” — Rich Cimini, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Restart the Rebuild

After a 3‑14 season, New York is hitting the reset button with major changes in coaching and potentially at quarterback. With multiple high draft picks and significant cap space, the Jets have the resources to rebuild, but success will depend on using them wisely to construct a competitive roster for 2026.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +25000
32) Cleveland Browns
2025 Record: 5‑12 | 4th in AFC North | Missed Playoffs

“The Browns need to add another playmaker at receiver and possibly replace as many as four starters on the offensive line.” — Daniel Oyefusi, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Reload the Offense

Cleveland is focused on overhauling its struggling offense. Key priorities include upgrading the offensive line, adding a top-tier receiver, and addressing the quarterback position through free agency or the draft. With Todd Monken now leading the unit, the Browns aim to become a more potent and balanced team in 2026.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +12500
1) Seattle Seahawks
2025 Record: 14-3 | NFC West Champions | Super Bowl LX Champions

“Two of the Seahawks’ best players, wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba and cornerback Devon Witherspoon, will be eligible for extensions that could each top $30 million per year. If general manager John Schneider is going to keep his Super Bowl team together, he’s going to spend a lot of Jody Allen’s money.” — Brady Henderson, ESPN

Offseason Agenda: Pay the Core

The Seahawks must ante up to keep key pieces from their Super Bowl-winning roster intact if they want to make another run at a title. With major extensions looming for cornerstone players on both sides of the ball, Seattle’s front office faces a pivotal offseason where retaining elite talent takes priority over bargain hunting.

Super Bowl LXI Odds: +750