NFL Teams Projected to Rise or Fall in 2026 Season

The 2026 NFL season is set to begin on September 9, with the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots kicking off the regular season. As teams finalize their rosters ahead of the August 30 cutdown deadline, the league landscape is defined by significant offseason moves, coaching changes, and roster overhauls that are expected to reshape the competitive order. Several teams are projected to make substantial leaps forward. The Baltimore Ravens, despite an 8-9 record in 2025, are poised for a resurgence under new head coach Jesse Minter. The team bolstered its pass rush by signing Trey Hendrickson to a four-year, $112 million deal and expects a healthier Lamar Jackson to lead the offense.