NFL teams projected to improve significantly in 2026
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 27, 2026, 12:17 PM
Last updated Aug 27, 2026
As the NFL preseason wraps up, analysts predict that several teams will show drastic improvements in the upcoming 2026 season. The Detroit Lions, coming off a 9-8 record in 2025, have the second-easiest strength of schedule, indicating potential for better outcomes. The Kansas City Chiefs, who finished 6-11 in 2025, faced a difficult season plagued by injuries and a record of 1-9 in close games. Despite this, the Chiefs have added Super Bowl MVP running back Kenneth Walker III, which could bolster their chances for a rebound.
- •Lions finished 2025 with a 9-8 record.
- •Chiefs struggled in 2025 with a 6-11 record.
- •Kansas City signed running back Kenneth Walker III for added support.
- •Lions had the second-easiest strength of schedule for 2026.
- •Injuries significantly impacted the Chiefs' performance last season.
- 12:17 PMYahoo Sports — Prediction: Which NFL teams will be drastically improved in 2026
"The projected strength of schedule for the Lions gives them the second-easiest path in the NFL
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