The 2026 NFL season projects a fierce competition in the NFC West, with the Los Angeles Rams, led by MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford, positioned as division favorites. The Rams' defense, already a strength, has been significantly enhanced by the acquisition of reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett and the return of star defensive tackle Aaron Donald.
Rams Bolster Defense and Offense Amidst Potential Suspensions
The Rams, who finished 12-5 in 2025, enter the 2026 season with an over/under of 10.5 wins. Key additions to the defensive front include Garrett and the un-retired Donald, who will play one more season. This unit also features Kobie Turner, who has recorded 24 sacks and 43 quarterback hits in his first three seasons. Quarterback Ty Simpson, a first-round draft pick from Alabama, is seen as a potential successor to Stafford. However, the team faces potential suspensions for star wide receiver Puka Nacua and starting left tackle Alaric Jackson, both pending rulings from the NFL.
The Rams' prediction stands at 13-4, with the fortified defense and Stafford's continued strong play cited as key factors. However, the potential loss of Nacua, one of the league's top receivers, and Jackson, who would be replaced by veteran David Quessenberry, could present challenges.
Seahawks Aim for Consistency Amidst Coaching Change
The Seattle Seahawks, coming off a 14-3 record in 2025, also have an over/under of 10.5 wins for 2026. Coach Mike Macdonald will look to maintain the team's success despite the departure of offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, who became the Raiders' head coach. Brian Fleury, formerly the 49ers' run game coordinator, takes over offensive play-calling.
Key additions for Seattle include edge rusher Dante Fowler and first-round running back Jadarian Price, intended to replace the Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III. Safety Bud Clark was a Day 2 draft pick but suffered a season-ending broken ankle. The Seahawks retained wide receiver Rashid Shaheed, keeping their strong receiving trio intact with Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Cooper Kupp.
Seattle returns 12 defenders who played at least 300 snaps, providing continuity on that side of the ball. The team is predicted to finish 12-5, but the division's strength is noted as a significant factor.
49ers Face Aging Core and Roster Turnover
The San Francisco 49ers, with a 12-5 record in 2025 and an over/under of 9.5 wins, are predicted to finish 11-6, having been surpassed by the Rams and Seahawks. Head coach Kyle Shanahan has revamped the receiving corps with additions like Mike Evans, who had a strong 2023 season, and Christian Kirk. Linebacker Dre Greenlaw returns to the team, and Raheem Morris takes over as defensive coordinator.
Christian McCaffrey is coming off a career season, but the 49ers face the challenge of managing his workload. Several key veteran starters, including McCaffrey, Evans, left tackle Trent Williams, tight end George Kittle, and fullback Kyle Juszczyk, will be 30 or older at the season's start. The team also faces the continued absence of first-round pick Ricky Pearsall due to injury.
Cardinals Under New Leadership with Roster Overhaul
Mike LaFleur, 39, takes over as head coach for the Arizona Cardinals, who finished 3-14 in 2025 and have an over/under of 3.5 wins. The Cardinals are predicted to finish 4-13. LaFleur’s first NFL head coaching opportunity comes with a roster in transition.
Key additions include first-round running back Jeremiyah Love and guards Isaac Seumalo and Elijah Wilkinson to bolster the offensive line. The team's offensive line is strengthened by the presence of top-tier left tackle Paris Johnson Jr. Rookie quarterback Carson Beck, from Miami, is considered a potential revelation.
However, the team's quarterback situation remains a question mark, with journeyman Jacoby Brissett not inspiring confidence. The Cardinals also need more production from former first-round wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., who had a down 2025 season. The departure of head coach Jonathan Gannon and quarterback Kyler Murray marks a significant shift for the franchise.
