USA TODAY Sports issues midseason grades for 2026 NFL teams

USA TODAY Sports released its midseason grades for the 2026 NFL regular season, assessing each franchise against its roster talent and preseason outlook. The San Francisco 49ers received an A, noted for leading the league in EPA per play and posting a +79 points differential despite injury concerns. The New York Giants also earned an A, highlighted for a quick turnaround after acquiring quarterback J.J. McCarthy and maintaining defensive cohesion.

The Buffalo Bills were given an A-, praised for ranking first in yards per game (386.4) and points per game (32) under first-year coach Joe Brady. The Jacksonville Jaguars earned an A-, recognized for a +108 point differential and strong rankings in both offensive and defensive EPA metrics after several trade-deadline moves.

The Chicago Bears received a B+, with quarterback Caleb Williams showing progress and the defense bolstered by the addition of defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons. The Denver Broncos were graded B+, noted for winning many close games but still posting the league’s third-worst yardage differential.

Other notable grades include a B for the Seattle Seahawks, Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals; a B- for the Minnesota Vikings and New England Patriots; a C+ for the Los Angeles Rams; a C for the Las Vegas Raiders and Tampa Bay Buccaneers; a C- for the Dallas Cowboys; a D for the Washington Commanders and Baltimore Ravens; and an F for the Los Angeles Chargers, who started 0-8.

"Well, you guys said you wanted to let him cook, so we’re letting him cook," joked San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan when asked about the 49ers’ offensive approach.

The grades reflect a clear split between teams positioned as contenders and those facing significant challenges, with nine weeks remaining for clubs to improve their standings.