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NFL teams target return to playoff contention for 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 2, 2026, 8:20 AM

Last updated Sep 2, 2026

NFL teams target return to playoff contention for 2026 season

Summary

Several NFL teams that missed the 2025 postseason enter the 2026 campaign with expectations of returning to the playoffs. The Kansas City Chiefs look to rebound after missing the postseason for only the second time during the tenure of Andy Reid. The Baltimore Ravens enter a new era under head coach Jesse Minter, while the Detroit Lions aim to leverage an easier schedule following a last-place finish in their division. Other squads highlighted for potential turnarounds include the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who look to capitalize on having the top quarterback in the NFC South, and the Dallas Cowboys following defensive coaching changes. These franchises are seeking to shake up the league standings after the 2025 season saw multiple new teams emerge as major postseason participants.

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Status Watch

•The Kansas City Chiefs return with a reshuffled roster and offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy.
•Jesse Minter replaces John Harbaugh as head coach of the Baltimore Ravens.
•Detroit Lions benefit from a last-place schedule following a nine-win 2025 season.
•The Dallas Cowboys revamped their defensive coaching staff to improve after a 7-9-1 campaign.
•Tampa Bay Buccaneers rely on Baker Mayfield to lead a rebound in the NFC South.

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