Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons are assembling the key pieces for a potential leap. Under new head coach Kevin Stefanski and GM Ian Cunningham, the team is building a new identity. While the quarterback situation remains a topic of conversation, the decision to keep four
QBs on the initial 53-man roster suggests a commitment to finding a solution, whether through competition or a quick trigger if the starter falters. The bigger story might be the quiet accumulation of talent on both sides of the ball. The offense has dynamic young players, and the defense, led by coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, aims to be more aggressive. With a manageable schedule and a division that often lacks a truly dominant force, the Falcons are positioned to make a significant jump from last year's record if their new leadership can instill discipline and a clear vision from Week 1.
Indianapolis Colts
The narrative around the Colts has been dominated by quarterback talk, with Daniel Jones returning from injury and the status of former top pick Anthony Richardson providing offseason drama. However, GM Chris Ballard has expressed confidence in Richardson's growth and development, noting his improved poise in preseason action. Richardson finished the 2026 preseason with a promising performance, showing flashes of the dual-threat talent that made him such a high draft pick. Beyond the quarterback room, the Colts have a formidable pass rush package featuring Laiatu Latu and DeForest Buckner, which could make life difficult for opposing offenses. If Jones can stay healthy and effective, or if Richardson is forced into action and takes the developmental leap the front office is hoping for, this team has the trench play and coaching to drastically outperform low expectations.
Los Angeles Chargers
High hopes are nothing new for the Chargers, but this year feels different. The arrival of offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, known for his innovative schemes, promises to unlock a new level for quarterback Justin Herbert. The plan is to install a faster, more motion-heavy offense that creates mismatches and explosive plays. On the other side of the ball, the defense is also getting a philosophical makeover, with plans to be more aggressive and blitz-heavy. Veteran edge rusher Khalil Mack has reportedly had a stellar offseason, with head coach Jim Harbaugh noting that his performance metrics are at a career peak despite his age. A combination of a revitalized Herbert in a creative new system and a defense that generates more pressure could be the formula that finally allows the Chargers to live up to their immense talent.
Chicago Bears
It may seem strange to call a defending division champion underrated, but the consensus seems to be that the Bears' 11-6 season in 2025 was a bit of a surprise. Many are waiting for the other shoe to drop, but there are strong reasons to believe they can sustain and even build on that success. Quarterback Caleb Williams took a significant step forward in his second year, and now has another season of continuity in coach Ben Johnson's system. While defenses will adjust, the offense is loaded with weapons like Rome Odunze and Colston Loveland. The primary concern last season was a defense that relied heavily on takeaways, finishing 23rd in scoring defense despite leading the league in interceptions. The front office addressed this by investing in the defense during the offseason, aiming to create more consistent pressure. If the defense becomes more reliable, this team has the makeup of a true NFC heavyweight, not just a one-year wonder.
Washington Commanders
After years of instability, the Commanders are quietly building a competent roster. The franchise made a significant splash in the 2024 offseason, which led to a dramatic turnaround and an NFC Championship Game appearance. Now, they're looking to replicate that success with another strong offseason. Washington was aggressive in free agency, particularly on defense, adding veteran players to shore up weaknesses. The key, as always, will be the health and performance of quarterback Jayden Daniels, whose dynamic ability gives the offense a high ceiling. The front office knows it still needs to add depth and complementary pieces, especially at wide receiver and in the secondary. However, this is a team that has already shown it can make a huge leap in a single year. With a more stable foundation and another year for its young talent to develop, Washington could easily disrupt the NFC East hierarchy once again.
