The NFL's 2026 season is upon us, and with it, the usual buzz of anticipation and speculation. As teams gear up for training camp, the question on everyone's mind is: who will rise to the top and who will fall flat? While some teams are undoubtedly in the running for the Super Bowl, others may struggle to meet expectations. In this article, I'll be taking a closer look at some of the most underrated and overrated teams entering the 2026 season, and why.
Underrated Teams
Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons are an intriguing team to watch this season. With a new head coach in Kevin Stefanski, the Falcons have a lot to prove. However, they have a talented roster, led by Bijan Robinson, Kyle Pitts, and Drake London. If Stefanski can figure out the quarterback situation and keep one of the two talented signal-callers on the field, the Falcons could be a force to be reckoned with in the NFC South. Personally, I think the Falcons have the potential to surprise everyone and make a deep playoff run.
Indianapolis Colts
The Indianapolis Colts are another team that could be undervalued by many. With Daniel Jones returning from his Achilles injury, the Colts have a strong foundation for their offense. If Jones can pick up where he left off, the Colts could be a top-10 offense. Additionally, their defense has the potential to be a strength, with a strong line and running back Jonathan Taylor. I believe the Colts could be a dark horse contender in the AFC South.
Cincinnati Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals are a team that has the potential to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 season. With the return of franchise quarterback Joe Burrow, and the additions of defensive tackles Dexter Lawrence and Jonathan Allen, the Bengals have a strong foundation for their defense. If they can improve their depth and consistency, the Bengals could be a force to be reckoned with in the AFC North. In my opinion, the Bengals are a team that could surprise many and make a deep playoff run.
Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers are a team that has been flying under the radar for a few years now. However, with the addition of general manager Dan Morgan and coach Dave Canales, the Panthers have made some key moves to upgrade their offense and defense. If Bryce Young can build on his career-best season and the defense continues to improve, the Panthers could be a team to watch in the NFC South. Personally, I think the Panthers have the potential to make a deep playoff run and could be a dark horse contender.
Overrated Teams
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys are a team that generates a lot of buzz, but they may be overrated. While their offense is strong, led by Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb, their defense has struggled in recent years. With the addition of new defensive coordinator Christian Parker, the Cowboys will need to jell quickly if they want to be a contender. In my opinion, the Cowboys may be a bit overhyped and could struggle to meet expectations this season.
Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills are a team that has been a consistent contender in recent years, but they may be overrated. While Josh Allen is a talented quarterback, the Bills have struggled to find consistency on both sides of the ball. With the departure of coach Sean McDermott and the transition to new offensive and defensive coordinators, the Bills may experience some growing pains. Personally, I think the Bills could be a bit overrated and may struggle to meet expectations this season.
Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears are a team that has been on the rise in recent years, but they may be overrated. While Ben Johnson did a great job in his first season as head coach, the Bears have some challenges ahead. Caleb Williams has the potential to be a franchise quarterback, but he will need to improve his consistency. Additionally, the Bears' defense has some weaknesses, particularly against the run. In my opinion, the Bears may be a bit overrated and could struggle to take that next step this season.
Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles are a team that has been a consistent contender in recent years, but they may be overrated. While they have a strong offense, led by quarterback Jalen Hurts, their defense has some concerns. With the addition of new players and the loss of some key standouts, the Eagles will need to re-tool on the fly. In my opinion, the Eagles may be a bit overrated and could struggle to meet expectations this season.
Conclusion
The 2026 NFL season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with some teams looking to rise to the top and others looking to avoid a fall from grace. While the underrated teams have the potential to surprise, the overrated teams may struggle to meet expectations. As an NFL fan, I can't wait to see how the season unfolds and which teams will rise to the challenge.
