As the NFL season comes to a close, fans and pundits alike are already turning their attention to the future, speculating about which teams will rise to the top in the 2026 season. While it's still early days, we can make some educated guesses based on current trends, team rosters, and coaching staffs. In this article, we'll delve into our way-too-early 2026 NFL playoff predictions, highlighting the teams that are likely to make a deep run in the postseason.
AFC Contenders
The AFC is shaping up to be a highly competitive conference, with several teams poised to make a push for the playoffs. Here are a few teams that could be in the mix:
Baltimore Ravens: With Lamar Jackson at the helm, the Ravens are always a threat to make a deep run in the playoffs. Their strong defense and potent offense make them a formidable opponent.
Kansas City Chiefs: The Chiefs have been one of the most consistent teams in the NFL over the past few years, and with Patrick Mahomes leading the charge, they're always a contender.
Buffalo Bills: The Bills have been building momentum over the past few seasons, and with a strong defense and emerging offense, they could be a dark horse candidate to make a deep run in the playoffs.
NFC Contenders
The NFC is also looking highly competitive, with several teams vying for a spot in the playoffs. Here are a few teams that could be in the mix:
San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers have been one of the most dominant teams in the NFL over the past few years, and with a strong defense and potent offense, they're always a contender.
Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles have been building momentum over the past few seasons, and with a strong defense and emerging offense, they could be a dark horse candidate to make a deep run in the playoffs.
Green Bay Packers: The Packers have been a consistent playoff contender over the past few years, and with Aaron Rodgers leading the charge, they're always a threat to make a deep run.
Wild Card Candidates
Every year, there are a few teams that come out of nowhere to make a push for the playoffs. Here are a few wild card candidates to keep an eye on:
Cleveland Browns: The Browns have been building momentum over the past few seasons, and with a strong defense and emerging offense, they could be a dark horse candidate to make a deep run in the playoffs.
Los Angeles Chargers: The Chargers have been inconsistent over the past few years, but with a strong offense and emerging defense, they could be a wild card candidate to make a push for the playoffs.
Minnesota Vikings: The Vikings have been a consistent playoff contender over the past few years, and with a strong defense and emerging offense, they could be a wild card candidate to make a deep run in the playoffs.
While it's still early days, our 2026 NFL playoff predictions suggest that the AFC and NFC will be highly competitive conferences. With several teams vying for a spot in the playoffs, it's shaping up to be an exciting season. Of course, there are always surprises and upsets along the way, but based on current trends and team rosters, these are the teams that we think have the best chance of making a deep run in the postseason. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as the season approaches!
Note: This article is for entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be taken as professional advice. The NFL season is subject to change and unforeseen circumstances, and our predictions are based on current information and trends.
