10. Detroit Lions (1-1)
There is a lot of season left, so let's put that caveat out there right away.
But if you were to tell me that I have to decide right now whether I'm in or out on the Detroit Lions for the 2026 season, I'm out.
This early in the season, you're really looking for teams to pass the "eye test". And while improvement is possible, improvement isn't imminent. The Lions' defense has been an atrocity through the first two games of the season, nearly blowing a 21-0 lead against the Saints in Week 1, then giving up about a dozen touchdowns to Josh Allen and the Bills in Week 2.
Through the first two weeks of the season, the Detroit defense has given up 71 points (31st), 915 yards of offense (31st), and 63 1st downs (32nd). That's not sustainable.
As good as the Detroit offense is capable of being, their defense is going to be what prevents them from getting back into contention.
9. Green Bay Packers (1-1)
The Green Bay Packers are fully capable of being a true contender in the NFC, but they've had a rough start to the 2026 season.
The elements played somewhat of a factor in their Week 2 game against the Jets, but is this offense going to be able to have enough balance to truly contend in the NFC? Without Josh Jacobs, the running game has been tough sledding at best. The Packers will continue to hold out hope that MarShawn Lloyd can actually get things figured out this season.
The biggest concern since Week 1 has been the offensive line. Jordan Love has only completed 52.1 percent of his throws so far this season, and has been sacked 7 times through two games. His sack percentage of 8.97 percent is nearly double last season.
If Love can't trust his protection, and the Packers can't run the ball effectively, how far can this team really go?
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