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NFL analysts identify five teams facing challenging starts to 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 7, 2026, 11:27 AM

Last updated Sep 7, 2026

NFL analysts identify five teams facing challenging starts to 2026 season

Summary

Several NFL contenders face significant obstacles as the 2026 season opens, potentially forcing early adjustments to team strategies. The Los Angeles Chargers face a demanding schedule after their first two games, with five playoff teams from the previous year appearing in their subsequent seven matchups. Buffalo Bills head coach Joe Brady must navigate a difficult initial five-week stretch against four 2025 playoff participants while implementing defensive changes under coordinator Jim Leonhard. Meanwhile, Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton attempts to correct a trend of slow September starts. The Broncos transition to first-time play-caller Davis Webb despite maintaining an elite offensive line. These early-season hurdles could force teams to prioritize mid-season improvement to remain in playoff contention throughout the remainder of the year.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Los Angeles Chargers face five 2025 playoff teams within a seven-game mid-season stretch.
•Buffalo Bills play four 2025 playoff teams and the Lions during the first five weeks.
•Sean Payton holds a 4-7 record in September during his tenure with the Denver Broncos.
•Davis Webb assumes play-calling duties for the Denver Broncos for the first time.
•Jim Leonhard implements a new defensive scheme for the Buffalo Bills this season.

Latest Updates

11:27 AMYahoo Sports — Five NFL teams that could stumble early in 2026 season

What they're saying

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Which NFL teams could be in for an early-season stumble? These five teams could trip up due to their opening schedules and other issues.
— Yahoo Sports

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Buffalo Bills Los Angeles Chargers NFL Football