The Philadelphia Eagles are poised to lead the NFC East in the upcoming 2026 season, with projections placing them at 11-6. Despite a 2025 record of 11-6 and an over/under win total of 10.5, questions linger regarding offensive consistency and the departure of key players.
Philadelphia Eagles
Head coach Nick Sirianni faces scrutiny as the Eagles aim to recapture their Super Bowl-winning form. Key additions include rookie wide receiver Makai Lemon, expected to help replace A.J. Brown's production, and cornerback Riq Woolen, a Super Bowl champion. New offensive coordinator Sean Mannion has the task of revitalizing an offense that faltered last season. The team also lost wide receiver A.J. Brown, outside linebacker Jaelan Phillips, linebacker Nakobe Dean, and safety Reed Blankenship.
The Eagles' offensive line remains intact, considered one of the league's best. With quarterback Jalen Hurts, running back Saquon Barkley, and wide receiver DeVonta Smith, the offense hopes a new system will boost production. The defense is expected to remain strong, bolstered by a record-setting contract for defensive tackle Jalen Carter. A central question is whether offensive struggles were solely due to former coordinator Kevin Patullo's dismissal or if deeper issues persist with Hurts and the offense. Despite Brown's departure, he had recorded over 1,000 receiving yards in each of his four seasons with the Eagles, while Barkley's production nearly halved last year. The Eagles are predicted to finish 11-6, maintaining a high floor but not yet returning to true contender status.
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys, under head coach Brian Schottenheimer, are projected for a 9-8 season, aiming to improve from a 7-9-1 record in 2025. The team's over/under win total is set at 9.5. Offseason moves focused on addressing a defense that allowed a franchise and league-worst 511 points last season.
Key additions include rookie safety Caleb Downs, who has shown superstar potential, and defensive end Malachi Lawrence, another first-round pick. Rashan Gary also joins the team, adding depth to the pass rush. The Cowboys lost defensive tackles Osa Odighizuwa and Solomon Thomas. The offense remains potent with quarterback Dak Prescott, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, wide receiver George Pickens, and running back Javonte Williams returning. New defensive coordinator Christian Parker will oversee improvements with the help of Downs, Lawrence, Gary, and outside linebacker Von Miller. Offensive tackle Broderick Jones provides additional depth.
However, persistent questions surround the Cowboys, including Prescott's championship-caliber status, Schottenheimer's coaching effectiveness, and the defense's capacity for a significant turnaround. The team is predicted to be a fringe playoff contender due to defensive improvements.
New York Giants
New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh leads the team with a projected 8-9 record and an over/under of 7.5 wins, an improvement from their 4-13 finish in 2025. Harbaugh's arrival is seen as a catalyst for change.
The Giants have focused on bolstering their defense, which was a weak point last season. Rookie linebacker Arvell Reese, the No. 5 overall pick, is expected to be a key player in the middle of the defense, alongside the physically imposing linebacker Tremaine Edmunds. Francis “Sisi” Mauigoa, the second first-round pick, will start at right guard. Departures include defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II, wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson, cornerback Cor’Dale Flott, and offensive lineman Greg Van Roten.
With quarterback Jaxson Dart and Harbaugh in place, the team aims to improve its defensive unit. While the pass rush outside of Brian Burns underwhelmed, Abdul Carter shows potential, and a new scheme could benefit Kayvon Thibodeaux. Concerns remain about Dart's health and his potential for a Year 2 leap, as well as the health of wide receiver Malik Nabers and the thin defensive tackle position.
Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders, with head coach Dan Quinn, are predicted to finish 7-10, aiming for improvement from a 5-12 record in 2025, with an over/under win total of 7.5. The team hopes quarterback Jayden Daniels can lead them back to prominence.
Key additions include receiver Stefon Diggs, a significant weapon for Daniels, and defensive end Odafe Oweh, who signed a lucrative contract and has shown potential. Rookie linebacker Sonny Styles, the No. 7 pick, is also expected to contribute significantly. The Commanders lost linebacker Bobby Wagner, wide receiver Deebo Samuel, and cornerback Marshon Lattimore.
Daniels, who emerged as a promising rookie two years ago but was limited to seven games last year due to injuries, is expected to carry the team if healthy. However, his aggressive playing style poses a constant injury risk. The offensive weapons are considered less than formidable, and the defense lacks top-tier talent, putting Quinn potentially on the hot seat. Daniels is expected to reestablish himself, but the roster's overall weakness may limit the team's success.
