Ben Solak ranked all 32 NFL teams by watchability for the 2026 season, considering excitement, fun, and intrigue. The Chicago Bears topped the list, led by quarterback Caleb Williams and an explosively entertaining offense. Solak's methodology weighs four factors: big plays, competitive games, star players, and avoiding truly unwatchable football. Teams that score quickly and play close games rank higher, while those with dreadful offenses or defenses fall to the bottom. The Bears exemplified this approach last season with six comeback wins and highlight-reel plays like a 58-yard Colston Loveland touchdown against the Bengals. Solak noted that watchable football isn't always winning football—teams willing to take risks and create chaotic moments often deliver more entertaining games than methodical winners. His rankings aim to help fans decide which games deserve their full attention on secondary screens during the upcoming season.

The rankings consider both offensive excitement and defensive vulnerability, favoring teams that surrender big plays as well as create them. Solak emphasized that star players can make even struggling teams worth watching, citing examples like Myles Garrett and rookie Jeremiyah Love. However, teams with consistently poor execution on both sides of the ball remain unwatchable despite occasional explosive plays.

Last season's top-ranked team, the Commanders, went 5-12, proving that watchability and wins don't always align. Solak's approach prioritizes entertainment value over traditional success metrics, helping fans identify which games will provide the most engaging viewing experience throughout the 2026 NFL season.