Top Contenders
Kansas City Chiefs (11/2)
- Why They’re Contenders: The Chiefs remain the team to beat in the NFL. Led by the dynamic duo of Patrick Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid, Kansas City boasts one of the league’s most potent offenses. Mahomes’ ability to extend plays and deliver game-changing throws, combined with a reliable core of star players like Travis Kelce, makes the Chiefs the favourite to win it all once again.
- Key Factors: The addition of young wide receivers to complement their offensive scheme, coupled with a defence that continues to grow under Steve Spagnuolo, will be crucial. If they maintain a balance between explosive offence and a solid defensive performance, they could very well repeat as champions.
San Francisco 49ers (6/1)
- Why They’re Contenders: With a roster loaded with talent on both sides of the ball, the 49ers are primed for another deep playoff run. Their defence, led by reigning Defensive Player of the Year Nick Bosa, is among the best in the league. Offensively, the 49ers possess a versatile group of playmakers in Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, and Christian McCaffrey. They will also be hoping for stability at quarterback, with Brock Purdy expected to lead the charge.
- Key Factors: The quarterback position remains the key question. If Purdy can stay healthy and perform at a high level, the 49ers have the pieces to dominate. Kyle Shanahan’s innovative play-calling will be pivotal in maximising their offensive potential.
Philadelphia Eagles (14/1)
- Why They’re Contenders: Fresh off a Super Bowl appearance, the Eagles are looking to go one step further this year. Jalen Hurts has solidified himself as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks, and the team has done well to retain much of its core, including stars like A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Dallas Goedert.
- Key Factors: The Eagles’ success will hinge on their ability to maintain offensive balance while retooling a defence that lost some key pieces in the offseason. The development of young defensive players and the continued dominance of their offensive line will be critical.
Cincinnati Bengals (12/1)
- Why They’re Contenders: Led by Joe Burrow, the Bengals have quickly established themselves as a consistent AFC powerhouse. With one of the best wide receiver trios in the league (Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Tyler Boyd) and a defence that punches above its weight, Cincinnati will be a formidable challenger.
- Key Factors: Protecting Burrow is essential. The offensive line has also been a concern. If they get any injuries that could derail their Super Bowl aspirations. Additionally, the Bengals will need their defence to continue forcing turnovers to create more opportunities for their explosive offence.
Dark Horses
Jacksonville Jaguars (50/1)
- Why They Could Surprise: The Jaguars are a team on the rise, with quarterback Trevor Lawrence developing into a franchise player under head coach Doug Pederson. With a potent offence and a young, improving defence, Jacksonville could make a serious run.
- Key Factors: Consistency and growth on both sides of the ball are key. The Jaguars will need their defence to step up in big games, particularly in a competitive NFL.
Detroit Lions (12/1)
- Why They Could Surprise: The Lions have been building quietly and made significant strides last season. Dan Campbell’s gritty coaching style, coupled with a balanced offence led by Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and a two-headed running back attack with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, could make Detroit a sleeper team in the NFL.
- Key Factors: The Lions’ defence has been their Achilles heel. If their young defensive core, particularly Aidan Hutchinson, can develop into a formidable unit, they could find themselves in the playoffs for the first time since 2016.
New York Jets (22/1)
- Why They Could Surprise: The Jets have been rejuvenated with the addition of Aaron Rodgers at quarterback. Combined with a strong defence led by Quinnen Williams and Sauce Gardner, the Jets have the potential to break their long playoff drought.
- Key Factors: Rodgers’ health and adaptation to a new system will be critical. Additionally, the Jets’ offensive line must provide better protection to ensure Rodgers can utilise his array of young weapons effectively.
Teams to Watch
Miami Dolphins (22/1)
- Why Watch Them: The Dolphins possess a high-octane offence with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, and Tua Tagovailoa looked much improved before his injury last season. With a revamped defence under new coordinator Vic Fangio, Miami could challenge the big boys in the AFC.
- Key Factors: Tua’s health is the biggest question mark. If he can stay healthy and consistent, Miami could be a dangerous playoff team.
Dallas Cowboys (18/1)
- Why Watch Them: The Cowboys remain one of the NFL’s most talented yet enigmatic teams. With a star-studded defence led by Micah Parsons and a potent offence they have the pieces to compete with anyone.
- Key Factors: Prescott’s performance in big games and the coaching acumen of Mike McCarthy in critical moments will determine how far the Cowboys can go.
Buffalo Bills (14/1)
- Why Watch Them: The Bills are still considered a top team with Josh Allen at the helm, but they have fallen short in recent years. This season could be make-or-break for the current iteration of the roster, and the pressure is mounting.
- Key Factors: The Bills need to rediscover their offensive rhythm while tightening up their defence, particularly in high-leverage moments.