Analyst releases full 2026 NFL season predictions, including team records and Super Bowl pick

A sports analyst has issued a comprehensive set of predictions for the 2026 NFL season, outlining expected final records for each team, bold division forecasts, and playoff outcomes. The analyst projects the Buffalo Bills to finish 11-6 in the AFC East, while the New England Patriots are forecast to miss the playoffs despite a .721 strength-of-schedule in their first four games. In the AFC North, the Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals are both predicted to win 12-5 and 11-6 respectively, with a second-round pick, Cashius Howell, singled out for Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.

The AFC South outlook includes the Houston Texans at 11-6, and a prediction that Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence will lead the league in interceptions. The analyst expects the Denver Broncos to repeat as AFC West champions, citing a favorable roster and odds advantage over the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers.

In the NFC, the Dallas Cowboys are projected to finish 10-7 in the East, though the Philadelphia Eagles are predicted to miss the playoffs after a turbulent offseason for their offense. The Detroit Lions are forecast to top the NFC North at 12-5, with quarterback Jared Goff identified as a potential MVP candidate. The New Orleans Saints receive a bold prediction that head coach Kellen Moore could win Coach of the Year despite a losing record, while the San Francisco 49ers are expected to see rookie receiver De'Zhaun Stribling earn Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Playoff brackets are detailed, with the Cowboys, Rams, Lions, and Seahawks advancing through the NFC, and the Broncos, Bengals, Ravens, and Bills moving forward in the AFC. The analyst predicts the Cincinnati Bengals will defeat the Dallas Cowboys 27-23 in Super Bowl LXI at SoFi Stadium, marking the Bengals' first championship.

The forecast also includes a preview of the 2027 NFL Draft order for the top five selections.