Way-Too-Early NFL Predictions & Future Bets to Make:

Preseason begins in two weeks (HOF Game on August 6th) and I'm expecting a monstrous NFL season here in 2026-27. Over the past few seasons, I've made a similar article to this one. Here's what to look for in this upcoming campaign: 

The NFL is not always kind to the brightest stars in the league. Joe Burrow suffered a Grade 3 "turf toe" injury that had him sidelined for the majority of last season. That didn't help the Bengals cause whatsoever as he's a massive piece to what this team wants to accomplish. As he should definitely be back healthy and ready to go for Week 1 in this upcoming season, I believe that Cincinnati is going to make a massive leap in the AFC North standings and get back into the playoffs. Yes, there's still the question marks on the defensive side of the ball. However, with a strong offense, the Bengals are able to outscore their opponents when fully healthy. 

Just like Cincinnati, Kansas City was forced to play a lot of 2025-26 without its starting Quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. The Chiefs rely quite a bit on his ability to create things behind the line of scrimmage from his legs to his throwing abilities. This season, he's expected to be ready to go for week 1 and that should prove a massive boost to the "once" dynasty in the AFC of the NFL. Travis Kelce returns and the team's looking as dangerous as ever at the moment. I see the Chiefs making it right back into the postseason this season with a real chance of winning the Super Bowl with a 3-time champ leading the charge. 

9-8 isn't a horrible season. But, missing out on the playoffs with the roster that the Lions possess is going to be in the back of their heads for this entire season. Detroit's good enough to be one of the best teams in the NFC when on its game. Don't get me wrong, losing Ben Johnson (former OC) last year wasn't ideal. But, the coaching staff will be much more comfortable with HC Dan Campbell's systems this time around and the talent should show itself once again. Jahmyr Gibbs & Amon Ra St Brown should most definitely shine in this offense with Aidan Hutchinson, Jack Campbell & Brian Branch leading the way on defense. 

Winning the division in his final season in charge of the team capped off a legendary coaching career for Mike Tomlin. To never have a losing season in a 19-year tenure with the Steelers is simply remarkable. Will he ever return to coaching? Most likely yes. However, Mike McCarthy takes control of the Steelers for the upcoming season and I believe that Pittsburgh will drop off at least a bit. Aaron Rodgers does return for another season. However, the team is going to have to compete with much healthier Bengals/Ravens teams compared to a year ago & I expect the Browns to be a bit more competitive this time around. While the Steelers might have a similar season in terms of record, I don't expect them to be much of a threat if they are to make the postseason. I would say "no" to them making the playoffs right now though. 

After making the Super Bowl last season, I am expecting a bit of a lesser season from the Patriots in 2026-27. New England took advantage of all of the injury problems that the rest of the AFC was having. That almost resulted in glory. However, the Pats ended up falling short in the big game against the Seahawks. Beginning the new year against the Seahawks on the road is not doing NE any favors either. This is a team that went out and added a big name receiver in AJ Brown for this upcoming season. However, I believe that the rest of the AFC will be coming for the Patriots all season long. I wouldn't be shocked if they still made the playoffs. But, don't expect New England to win 14+ games this time around. 

A couple of seasons ago, I was very high on the Colts in this division with Jacksonville, Houston & Tennessee. Instead, Jacksonville was the team to take the step forward, leaving Indianapolis in the dust a bit. Anthony Richardson hasn't performed up to expectations and Daniel Jones is still recovering from his torn achilles suffered towards the end of last year. While Jones is hoping to be ready to go for the opening game of the season, there's still doubt that the Colts can compete with two young & hungry defensive minded teams. The Titans will be looking to accomplish bigger and better things as well this season. I don't see Indi having a winning year in 2026-27 and therefore, the most likely outcome for this organization is a drop-off from last year. 

Bijan Robinson // OVER 1174.5 Rushing Yards (-110) //. 

Brock Bowers // OVER 924.5 Receiving Yards (-110) //. 

Patrick Mahomes // To Win Comeback Player Of The Year (+185) //. 

Miami Dolphins // UNDER 4.5 Total Wins (-146) //. 

Los Angeles Rams // To Win The Super Bowl (+550) //. 

It's definitely hard to predict things way in advance. Especially who's going to be in the Super Bowl. However, he's my VERY-EARLY SUPER BOWL PREDICTION: 

Los Angeles Rams def. Kansas City Chiefs (27-20).