NFL previews project challenging 2026 seasons for NFC East and South

As the 2026 NFL regular season approaches, previews for the NFC East and NFC South divisions highlight varying levels of optimism and struggle among teams.

In the NFC East, the New York Giants are ranked last due to ongoing organizational dysfunction, though there is focus on rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart. The Washington Commanders follow, coming off a difficult season marked by injuries to Jayden Daniels and offensive line concerns.

In the NFC South, computer rankings project a challenging year for the division, with a combined forecast record of 22-46. The New Orleans Saints are projected to lead the division with a 7-10 record, while the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Carolina Panthers, and Atlanta Falcons are expected to struggle. The Falcons have recently hired Kevin Stefanski to replace Raheem Morris.