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Now that we are in the middle of the NFL Playoffs, plenty of fanbases will be looking on enviously, knowing that their teams’ season won’t start again until next September. The 2025 NFL season was highly remarkable, though, due to the sheer number of teams tagged as contenders at the start of the campaign that largely failed to take off. But who will bounce back the quickest? Who simply had a bad season and can pick up again in 2026?
These five teams were all listed among the top contenders in the Super Bowl LX betting at odds DraftKings at the start of the season, yet the season has ended for all of them. Who will bounce back in 2026?
Kansas City Chiefs (6-11 Regular Season)
The Chiefs had a miserable 2025 season, which is something that we haven’t said for a long, long time. The injury to Patrick Mahomes felt like the final insult, and replacing him was a disaster, but in truth, the Chiefs were struggling well before their pre-determined elimination from the NFL playoffs.
What needs to happen for the Chiefs to regain their groove?
A lot, including building a dependable run game. Yet, above all, there needs to be a Plan B for Mahomes, both in terms of protecting his rehab and creating scenarios where he doesn’t have to play superhero every week.
Philadelphia Eagles (11-6; Elimination in Wild Card of NFL Playoffs)
The Eagles are arguably the least deserving team to be on this list, but the defending champions never hit the heights of last season. There seemed to be a lack of identity, especially offensively.
What do the Eagles need? Clear tactics, most of all. Like many teams on this list, the Eagles are searching for new coaching staff. But the arrival of a new offensive coordinator who can get the most out of Jalen Hurts and company is pressing.
Baltimore Ravens (8-9)
Another season of disappointment caused the Ravens to finally pull the plug on head coach John Harbaugh. George W. Bush was the US President the last time the Ravens had a different head coach, but it feels like the right time.
What do the Ravens need?
A new head coach, of course, but it is arguable that the Ravens have the strongest roster on this list, so this is a question of the right coach bringing in new tactics and strategies for game management rather than a massive overhaul of the playing staff.
Detroit Lions (9-8)
It was a weird old season for the Detroit Lions, who found themselves with a winning record yet finished at the bottom of the NFC North. It was disappointing, especially given last season’s excellent performances.
What do the Lions need?
A lot. Dan Campbell remains in place as head coach, but it will be interesting to see who the new offensive coordinator is.
Washington Commanders (5-12)
After being the fun-to-watch surprise package of the 2024 season, the worst thing we can say about the Commanders for the 2025 season is that they were instantly forgettable. Jayden Daniels’ injuries had an impact, but there was definitely a sense of the team not being good enough.
What do the Commanders need?
More depth is the simple answer. Daniels needs more protection, so that may require the retooling of the offense so he doesn’t have to take as many hits. He could be a generational talent, but he needs the support to shine.
