Source: SB Nation
Summary
The 2026 NFL season is shaping up with several teams positioned as Super Bowl contenders. The Rams, led by Sean McVay, are considered favorites after adding Myles Garrett and other defensive players. The Seahawks, defending champions, are expected to remain competitive with their strong defense. The Ravens, under new coach Jesse Minter, aim to improve after a disappointing 2025 season. The Bills, with Josh Allen, are seen as a contender but face challenges. The Chiefs, despite having Mahomes, lack roster improvements. Other teams like the Broncos, Eagles, and Texans are considered fringe contenders.
Our Reading
The game followed a familiar script.
Rams added all the right pieces, but still need to prove they can win without luck.
Seahawks defense is still elite, but their offense needs a new voice.
Ravens have a new coach, but Lamar Jackson needs to stay healthy.
Buffalo has talent, but one bad game could end their season.
Author: Evan Null
The Rams: The New Favorites
The Rams are the clear favorites to win the Super Bowl in 2026. They made significant additions to their defense, including Myles Garrett and Trent McDuffie, which should help them dominate the league. Their offensive line is thin, and Matthew Stafford is entering his 38th season, but they still have one of the best coaches in the league. The Rams are the team to beat, but they need to prove they can win without relying on luck.
The Seahawks: Defending Champions
The Seahawks are the defending champions and are expected to remain competitive in 2026. They lost some players but have a strong defense that returns most of its key players. Their offense is in transition, with a new coordinator and a quarterback who needs to improve. If they can keep their defense at an elite level and improve their offense, they could be a serious contender.
The Ravens: A New Beginning
The Ravens are looking to rebound in 2026 after a disappointing 2025 season. They hired a new head coach, Jesse Minter, who is known for his defensive expertise. The defense is expected to improve, but the offense, led by Lamar Jackson, needs to return to its MVP form. If Jackson can stay healthy and the offense can improve, the Ravens could be a top contender in the AFC.
The Bills: A Team with Potential
The Bills are considered a contender in 2026, but they face challenges. They have Josh Allen, one of the league’s best quarterbacks, but their offensive line lost a key player. The defense is getting a new coordinator, and they need to improve their play-calling. If they can maintain their offensive production and improve their defense, they could make a deep playoff run.
The Chiefs: A Team in Transition
The Chiefs are still in the mix for the Super Bowl, but they face challenges. Patrick Mahomes is coming off an ACL tear, and the team made minimal roster improvements. They need to find a way to support Mahomes and improve their defense. Without significant upgrades, the Chiefs may struggle to make the playoffs, let alone win the Super Bowl.
