The NFL offseason has officially begun after Super Bowl LX, where the Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots 29-13. While the championship result has set the tone, the race for the 2026 season has already started.
These are early offseason power rankings based on overall team strength, roster balance, quarterback stability, coaching impact, and expected offseason flexibility. Free agency (starting March 11) and the NFL Draft (April 23–25) could still change the landscape, but the current picture shows which teams are best positioned for success.
Top 10 NFL Teams – Early Offseason Rankings (2026)
| Rank | Team | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Seahawks | Elite defense, Super Bowl champions |
| 2 | Los Angeles Rams | Matthew Stafford-led offense, strong coaching |
| 3 | Denver Broncos | Dominant defense, young QB development |
| 4 | Buffalo Bills | Josh Allen and top-tier offensive efficiency |
| 5 | New England Patriots | Strong defense, Drake Maye’s growth |
| 6 | San Francisco 49ers | Balanced roster, proven playmakers |
| 7 | Detroit Lions | Young core, consistent offense |
| 8 | Kansas City Chiefs | Patrick Mahomes factor |
| 9 | Baltimore Ravens | Lamar Jackson and physical defense |
| 10 | Philadelphia Eagles / Cincinnati Bengals | Elite QB talent and offensive firepower |
Why Seattle Seahawks Lead the Rankings
The Seahawks enter the offseason as the team to beat after winning the Super Bowl. Their defense finished as one of the best in the league and played a major role in their championship run. Sam Darnold’s resurgence at quarterback and Kenneth Walker III’s dominant rushing performance have given the team a balanced identity.
With good cap flexibility and a young defensive core, Seattle is a strong candidate to remain a title contender in 2026.
Also see: Washington Commanders 2026 NFL Offseason Schedule
Rams Could Challenge for No. 1
Some analysts believe the Los Angeles Rams have the most complete roster entering the offseason. Matthew Stafford’s form remains a key factor, and the offensive unit looks dangerous with elite receiving weapons and a strong running game.
Head coach Sean McVay’s system continues to be one of the biggest advantages for the franchise. However, Stafford’s long-term future remains an important storyline.
Rising Contenders to Watch
Denver Broncos
The Broncos are built around one of the league’s strongest defenses. With young quarterback Bo Nix continuing to develop and a solid running game, Denver could emerge as a serious AFC contender.
Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen remains one of the league’s most reliable elite quarterbacks. If the team strengthens its defensive depth and wide receiver unit, Buffalo could return to Super Bowl contention.
New England Patriots
Despite the Super Bowl loss, the Patriots showed major progress. Drake Maye’s breakout season and Mike Vrabel’s coaching leadership have built a strong foundation. Improving the offensive line and receiver group will be key.
Also see: Mack Hollins Super Bowl 60 Performance
Strong NFC Competition
The NFC remains highly competitive with multiple teams capable of deep playoff runs.
| Team | Outlook |
|---|---|
| San Francisco 49ers | Strong core with playmakers on both sides |
| Detroit Lions | Young roster and offensive consistency |
| Philadelphia Eagles | Balanced offense with elite skill players |
Meanwhile, the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens remain dangerous in the AFC because of their franchise quarterbacks and experienced coaching staffs.
Bottom Teams Entering Rebuild Phase
Several teams enter the offseason with major roster questions.
| Team | Situation |
|---|---|
| New York Jets | Quarterback uncertainty and full rebuild |
| Las Vegas Raiders | Offensive instability and roster gaps |
| Cleveland Browns | Quarterback inconsistency |
| Arizona Cardinals | Long-term rebuild |
| New Orleans Saints | Salary cap challenges |
These teams are expected to focus heavily on the draft and cap restructuring.
Key Trends for the 2026 Offseason
1. Defense Is Back in Focus
Seattle’s championship run highlighted the importance of elite defense. Teams are expected to prioritize pass rushers, secondary depth, and defensive line strength.
2. Balanced Run Game Matters
Kenneth Walker III’s impact showed the value of a strong running attack to control games and support quarterbacks.
3. Young Quarterback Development
Quarterbacks like Drake Maye, Sam Darnold, and Bo Nix proved that growth and system fit can quickly change a team’s future.
4. Cap Space Strategy
Teams with financial flexibility such as the Seahawks and Rams have a major advantage, while others may need to release veterans or restructure contracts.
What Could Change the Rankings?
The current rankings are early projections. Major changes are expected after:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Free Agency Begins | March 11, 2026 |
| NFL Draft | April 23–25, 2026 |
| Rookie Minicamps | May 2026 |
Big signings, trades, or draft picks could significantly shift the power balance.
The Seattle Seahawks start the offseason as the defending champions and early favorites, but the competition is strong. Teams like the Rams, Broncos, Bills, and Patriots are close behind, and the gap between contenders is smaller than ever.
With free agency and the draft approaching, the 2026 NFL offseason is expected to bring major roster moves. By the time training camp begins, the league’s power structure could look very different — setting the stage for another exciting season.
