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2026 NFL Predictions: Updated playoff predictions following Week 1 action

Let's predict the playoffs.
ByLou Scataglia
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
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NFC Playoff Team Predictions

1. Los Angeles Rams

The Los Angeles Rams are still going to be a very good team this year despite the ugly Week 1 loss, and when this team is, let's say, 8-2 after 10 games, that Week 1 loss will be long forgotten. The Rams possess the most talent of any team in the league and will figure it out.

2. Chicago Bears

Chicago's defense is a major concern, but man can this offense be special. If the Bears can somehow find a way to rank 18th in points allowed per game, this team could win it all, as the offense is oozing with young talent, and Ben Johnson is arguably the sharpest offensive mind in the sport right now.

3. Philadelphia Eagles

Philadelphia doesn't feel like a Super Bowl contender right now, but they are off to an early solid start thanks to a win over Washington, and if Dallas' defense isn't improving this year, the Eagles should be able to cruise to another division title.

4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa Bay had a forgettable showing against the Bengals in Week 1, but this team, while largely not special, is the best in the NFC South right now, and, because of course, all four NFC South teams lost in Week 1.

5. San Francisco 49ers

San Francisco picked apart the Rams in Week 1 and are good enough to make a deep run. The injuries have been a thorn in their side for years now, and that's really the main thing that could potentially derail a special season, as this team has done nothing but win games when the injuries aren't mounting.

6. Detroit Lions

Detroit's defense could be a major concern this year, but, like the Bears, the offense could be special. Chicago may actually have a higher ceiling on that side of the ball, but Detroit's roster is simply too good to miss the playoffs for a second season in a row, and starting 1-0 is a major step in the right direction.

7. Seattle Seahawks

The Seattle Seahawks could be forced to entrust Drew Lock with the starting job for a little bit. While Lock is competent, the no team wants to have to pivot to their backup quarterback. Seattle did lose some key roster talent this offseason and could be due for a very slight regression, but if they don't win the NFC West, they're forced to slide into a Wild Card spot.

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