The 2026 NFL season kicks off this week, and the anticipation is palpable. As the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk examines the landscape, one thing is certain: parity reigns supreme. Last season saw seven of eight division winners dethroned, with powerhouse franchises like the Baltimore Ravens and Kansas City Chiefs missing the playoffs entirely. The Seattle Seahawks shocked the world by hoisting the Lombardi Trophy, defeating the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX. Now, as we set our sights on Super Bowl LXI in Los Angeles, the burning question is: who will rise to the occasion this year?
The Rams and Bills: A Collision Course?
Our panel of experts at Vulius Sports overwhelmingly points to the Los Angeles Rams as the NFC favorites. The Rams have gone all-in, highlighted by a blockbuster trade for star edge rusher Myles Garrett. As Rob Staton notes, "Only two teams have repeated since the turn of the century," but he still picks the Rams to represent the NFC. Joe Bradshaw adds, "The last time the Super Bowl was at SoFi Stadium in 2022, the Rams won on home territory, and they look primed to repeat next February."
In the AFC, the Buffalo Bills and quarterback Josh Allen are the consensus picks. Allen, the 2024 NFL MVP, has yet to reach a Super Bowl, but many believe this is his year. The promotion of Joe Brady from offensive coordinator to head coach is seen as a potential missing ingredient. Haydn Parry asserts, "Surely the Bills can convert Allen's talent and make it to the season showpiece?" However, several pundits, including Hugh Ferris, predict a Bills loss in the big game, possibly to the Rams.
MVP Race: Allen, Herbert, and Gibbs in the Mix
When it comes to individual accolades, Josh Allen is a popular MVP pick, given his new offensive-minded coach. Yet, there are intriguing dark horses. Hugh Ferris selects Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers, citing the hiring of Mike McDaniel as offensive coordinator. "You might suggest a quarterback in a Jim Harbaugh team isn't likely to get the chance to have an MVP-level season, but the hiring of Mike McDaniel might change that," Ferris explains.
Running back Jahmyr Gibbs of the Detroit Lions also garners attention after signing a lucrative extension and becoming the clear lead back. David Brindle says, "He's signed a new deal and now has no running back competition, so expect him to see lots of action on a Lions team who are NFC contenders." Meanwhile, Ben Collins backs Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals, who is healthy after missing time with turf toe, to lead his team on a deep playoff run and capture his first MVP.
Coaching Carousel: Brady, McVay, and Harbaugh in Spotlight
The coach of the year race is equally compelling. Joe Brady could earn the honor if he guides the Bills to the Super Bowl, but Sean McVay of the Rams is a strong candidate if he secures a third title. John Harbaugh, now with the New York Giants, is a sentimental pick for Haydn Parry: "He will start from a comparatively low base, but with their passionate fanbase and the enormous potential of Jaxson Dart, lift-off could be achieved early."
Sean Payton of the Denver Broncos is another name mentioned, potentially winning his second coach of the year award 20 years after his first. Dan Campbell of the Lions rounds out the list, especially if he overcomes last season's defensive injuries.
Rookies to Watch: Stribling, Tate, and Downs
The 2026 rookie class is brimming with talent. Safety Caleb Downs of the Dallas Cowboys is expected to make an immediate impact, while wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling, drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the second round, could see significant playing time due to injuries. Carnell Tate, the fourth overall pick by the Tennessee Titans, is another wideout to monitor, with pre-draft reports praising his maturity and sure hands.
Running back Jadarian Price of the Seattle Seahawks is poised to start as the lead back, with Zach Charbonnet recovering from an ACL tear. Linebacker Sonny Styles of the Washington Commanders could also become a defensive leader early in his career.
Surprise Packages and Struggles
Every season brings unexpected contenders and disappointments. The Las Vegas Raiders, led by new head coach Klint Kubiak, are tipped to show signs of growth. The Cincinnati Bengals, if healthy, could upset the status quo. Conversely, the Cleveland Browns are widely expected to struggle, with Deshaun Watson's situation a major distraction. The Miami Dolphins, undergoing a rebuild after trading away stars like Tyreek Hill and Tua Tagovailoa, are also projected to have a rough season.
As the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk concludes, the 2026 season promises to be unpredictable and thrilling. Whether it's the Rams repeating at home or Josh Allen finally breaking through, fans are in for a treat. Stay tuned to Vulius for comprehensive coverage, analysis, and exclusive NFL merchandise to show your support.
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