The New York Post's betting staff has released its predictions and best bets for the 2026 NFL season, offering insights on Super Bowl contenders, division outcomes, and individual player performances.
In the AFC East, the Buffalo Bills are a popular pick to win the Super Bowl at 10/1 odds, with analysts citing Josh Allen's capabilities and the addition of wide receiver DJ Moore. The team's defense is also expected to be improved with new additions.
For the AFC West, the Denver Broncos are favored to win the division at +220 odds. Predictions suggest an improved offense with new weapons Jaylen Waddle and Jonah Coleman, a strong offensive line ranked No. 1 by Pro Football Focus, and a top-tier defense. The analysts expressed less confidence in the Chiefs and Chargers.
In the NFC, the Los Angeles Rams are also considered strong Super Bowl contenders at +500 odds. Despite concerns about the age of key players like Matthew Stafford, Davante Adams, and Aaron Donald, the roster is described as exceptionally talented. The Seattle Seahawks, coming off a Super Bowl win, are also highlighted as contenders, with some predicting them to repeat, while others see them as a strong contender in a competitive division.
Player-specific predictions include Jahmyr Gibbs leading running backs in receiving yards (+500), with the expectation that he will handle a larger workload due to the departure of David Montgomery and Isaiah Pacheco's injury status. Ja'Marr Chase is also a favored pick for receiving yards leader (+600), with the belief that his performance will be crucial for the Bengals' success. Amon-Ra St. Brown is another player highlighted to lead the league in receiving touchdowns (+700).
Regarding win totals, the Houston Texans are projected to exceed 10.5 wins (+120), buoyed by their strong finish to the previous season and additions like David Montgomery. The Seattle Seahawks are also expected to surpass 10.5 wins (-115), with the notes pointing to a stable team culture and a strong defense.
Conversely, the New York Giants are predicted to finish under 7.5 wins (-110), with concerns about a challenging schedule and potential health issues for rookie Malik Nabers impacting their offensive capabilities. The Dallas Cowboys are also projected to miss the playoffs (-110), with analysts pointing to defensive shortcomings and a difficult schedule.
In the AFC North, the Cincinnati Bengals are favored to win the division (+164), with the hope that a healthy Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase, combined with defensive improvements, can overcome their recent playoff drought. The Baltimore Ravens are also tabbed as Super Bowl contenders at 10/1 odds, with a healthy Lamar Jackson and a new coaching staff expected to drive their success.
Christian Watson of the Green Bay Packers is a player to watch for exceeding 774.5 receiving yards (-110), as he is expected to see an increased target share with potential departures and injuries among other receivers. The article also notes that the New York Post may receive an affiliate commission from betting sites mentioned.