The Buffalo Bills are projected for a dominant 2026 campaign, with quarterback Josh Allen favored to win MVP. Despite past postseason disappointments, the team has achieved at least 11 wins for six consecutive seasons and has qualified for the playoffs for seven straight years, a streak matched only by the Kansas City Chiefs in wins from 2017-2025.
Under the direction of newly promoted offensive coordinator Joe Brady, the Bills' offense is expected to continue its high performance. Allen, a six-foot-five quarterback with strong rushing capabilities, has guided an offense that has ranked between first and fourth in EPA per drive for six consecutive seasons. He is projected to surpass 4,000 passing yards and achieve double-digit rushing touchdowns for a fourth consecutive year.
Running back James Cook emerged as a significant threat last season, leading the league in rushing and contributing to the Bills' status as the top rushing team. His success was bolstered by an elite run-blocking offensive line that remains intact for the upcoming season. The receiving corps receives a boost with the addition of DJ Moore, though Allen's completion percentage improved last season even with a less established group.
The defensive strategy is set to undergo a shift, with defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard implementing a 3-4 base defense, moving away from Sean McDermott's previous 4-2-5 nickel. This change is intended to create a more aggressive and varied system, addressing the team's struggles against the run last season.
While the AFC East landscape has changed with the potential return of the Patriots, the Bills face the 14th-best strength of schedule, suggesting a clear path to the regular season with continued Super Bowl aspirations. The team's betting prediction is for over 10.5 wins, with odds at -125 on FanDuel.