A new NFL season brings playoff optimism to all 32 franchises. Last year, six teams made the playoffs after missing out in 2024, including Super Bowl participants Seattle Seahawks (14-3) and New England Patriots (14-3). Meanwhile, 2024 No. 1 seeds Kansas City Chiefs and Detroit Lions (both 15-2) missed the 2025 playoffs entirely.

Analysts offer best bets for 2026. Matt Bowen picks the Dallas Cowboys (+100) citing an offense averaging 26.6 PPG with Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and George Pickens, plus a defense overhauled by new coordinator Christian Parker using Vic Fangio's system. Rookie safety Caleb Downs and edge rusher Rashan Gary headline a unit that allowed a league-worst 30.1 PPG last year.

Liz Loza backs Jacksonville Jaguars (+105) after Liam Coen and Anthony Campanile led a 4-13 to 13-4 turnaround. The offense ranked fifth in scoring (55 TDs) and defense second in takeaways (31). With Travis Hunter returning and the 11th-easiest schedule, Jacksonville is positioned for another run.

Eric Moody selects Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+130), who started 6-2 before injuries derailed their season. Healthy offensive line returns plus Emeka Egbuka, Chris Godwin Jr., and Bucky Irving support Baker Mayfield. Pamela Maldonado views Tennessee Titans (+340) as a long shot with Cam Ward getting Brian Daboll as OC and a softer schedule.