4. Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions did win 27 regular season games between the 2023 and 2024 seasons, so this team does know how to win games. They've finished with a winning record four years in a row, so we're to the point now where we all kind of assume the Lions are going to be a good team.
If the injuries can somehow improve on defense, that'd be enough to have the Lions right back at the top of the NFC North. Quarterback Jared Goff has also started in a Super Bowl before, so he's no stranger to this game. The Lions also appeared in the NFC Championship Game in 2023. This franchise is close.
3. Houston Texans
There might not be a more complete roster in the NFL than the Houston Texans. Sure, the Los Angeles Rams have a loaded roster, but the Texans' group is just special. QB CJ Stroud has played rather average football the past two years, though, and that's really the main wild card here. If Stroud can somehow figure out how to 'throw it back' to the 2023 season, his electric rookie campaign, Houston would be playing in February.
And this team did manage to win 12 games last year despite Stroud not playing well and despite Houston beginning the year 0-3.
2. Cincinnati Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals are No. 2 in our power rankings and did make the Super Bowl back in 2021. It was a magical run by a young Joe Burrow and that group, and I am getting 2021 vibes with this team, as they did revamp the defense this past offseason. On paper, at least, this is the best roster of the Burrow era.
If the defense can be average, and Burrow himself can stay healthy, Cincy can win it all.
1. Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills have made the playoffs all year but one in the Josh Allen era, which includes each year since 2019. With two AFC title game appearances and zero Super Bowl appearances, the Bills are wasiting this opportunities away, but with how often they're deep into the playoffs, something has to give at some point, right?
The Bills did part with Sean McDermott this offseason and promoted Joe Brady, so there is a non-zero chance that move could be the one that gets them over the hump. This franchise knows how to win and could simply want to fast-forward until the playoffs.
While the Bills have become an easy target/joke in the playoffs, there is always a chance that 2026 could be the year.
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