Every NFL season has its surprises, but heading into 2025/26, fans and analysts already have a clear sense of which teams look like the strongest contenders.
Between powerhouse offenses, elite defenses, and quarterbacks in their prime, a handful of franchises are shaping up as the real favorites to lift the Lombardi Trophy.
This isn’t just about hype, but about rosters, coaching, and statistics. And right now, certain teams stand above the rest
1. Kansas City Chiefs: Still the Standard
When you think of NFL dominance, the Kansas City Chiefs immediately come to mind. As long as Patrick Mahomes is healthy, Kansas City will always be in the conversation.
Mahomes’ ability to extend plays, make impossible throws, and lead late-game comebacks keeps them one step ahead of the competition.
Travis Kelce may be approaching the twilight of his career, but he’s still a matchup nightmare, and the Chiefs’ younger receiving core has shown flashes of big-play potential.
Key things to watch this year:
- Offensive Line Stability – Can Mahomes get the time he needs against elite pass rushers?
- Defensive Progress – The unit took strides last season, but consistency is the real test.
- Supporting Cast – Wideouts need to prove they can step up in crucial moments.
Bottom line: As long as Andy Reid is calling plays and Mahomes is delivering, Kansas City stays at the top of the AFC pyramid. For fans and bettors checking lines on FanDuel, Kansas City remains a strong option.
2. San Francisco 49ers: Balance and Brilliance
The 49ers represent the NFL’s most complete roster. A defense anchored by Nick Bosa and Fred Warner can suffocate opponents, while Kyle Shanahan’s offense continues to maximize versatility.
Brock Purdy has erased doubts about being a “system quarterback.” Surrounded by playmakers like Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, and Deebo Samuel, Purdy has shown he can command big moments.
Why they’re a favorite:
- Elite Defense: Top 5 across most major categories last season.
- Versatile Offense: They can grind clock with McCaffrey or strike fast with Samuel.
- Experience: The Niners have been deep in the playoffs multiple times in recent years.
The one question mark? Health. Injuries have derailed multiple San Francisco seasons. If they can stay healthy, they may be the most dangerous team in the league.
3. Baltimore Ravens: Lamar Jackson in His Prime
Few players impact a game like Lamar Jackson. In 2024, he reminded everyone why he’s a former MVP, combining elite rushing ability with improved passing efficiency.
Baltimore’s offense now feels more unpredictable than ever. Zay Flowers has given Jackson a reliable target, and the ground game behind their strong offensive line keeps defenses guessing.
Defensively, they may not be the juggernaut of past Ravens teams, but they’re opportunistic and disciplined—two traits that matter in January football.
X-Factor: Can Jackson replicate his regular-season dominance in the playoffs? That’s the hurdle Baltimore must clear if they want to take the AFC crown.
4. Philadelphia Eagles: Redemption Tour
The Eagles’ 2024 season was a rollercoaster. For a roster this stacked, inconsistency was the story, and they left the playoffs earlier than expected. But don’t count them out just yet.
Jalen Hurts continues to grow as a leader, and when he’s in sync with A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, Philadelphia can overwhelm secondaries.
The offensive line remains the anchor of the team, and their ability to control the line of scrimmage gives the Eagles a real edge.
What Philly needs to fix:
- Defensive Consistency – They regressed last year, especially in the secondary.
- Offensive Rhythm – Hurts needs to rediscover his confidence in big games.
- Mental Toughness – Shaking off last season’s collapse is just as important as physical preparation.
The Eagles remain a great NFC option. They’ve got the roster, the coaching staff, and the hunger to bounce back.
Detroit Lions: A New Era
Yes, the Lions are finally in the conversation as true favorites. And it feels deserved.
Under Dan Campbell, Detroit has built a culture of grit, belief, and execution. Jared Goff has re-emerged as a reliable leader, while Amon-Ra St.
Brown and their powerful running game give the offense real balance. On defense, Aidan Hutchinson is turning into a superstar pass rusher, and the team’s energy is infectious.
For a franchise long haunted by playoff droughts, this is the most exciting Lions team in decades. The key will be handling expectations – Detroit is no longer sneaking up on anyone.
Comparison of Top Contenders
Here’s a look at how preseason odds stack up across the favorites:
| Team | Key Strength | Preseason Odds* | Biggest Question Mark |
| Kansas City Chiefs | Mahomes’ playmaking | +550 | Offensive line depth |
| San Francisco 49ers | Elite balance, top defense | +600 | Injuries to key players |
| Baltimore Ravens | Lamar Jackson’s prime | +750 | Playoff consistency |
| Philadelphia Eagles | Depth and strong O-line | +900 | Defensive regression |
| Detroit Lions | Balanced young roster | +1200 | Handling pressure as favorites |
*Odds fluctuate, sourced from major sportsbooks as of preseason 2025.
Other Teams That Could Break Through
While the top five dominate the conversation, a few others remain dangerous:
- Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow’s health will determine everything.
- Buffalo Bills: Still a strong AFC squad, but they need more postseason toughness.
- Dallas Cowboys: Their defense alone keeps them in the mix.
- Miami Dolphins: If Tua Tagovailoa stays healthy, they’re one of the most explosive offenses.
These teams might not be at the top of the odds list, but they’re all capable of going on a run if things break their way.
Final Thoughts
So, who are the top favorites for the 2025/26 NFL season? The Chiefs and 49ers are leading the charge, with the Ravens, Eagles, and Lions right behind them.
Each team has its own unique storyline—Mahomes’ brilliance, San Francisco’s balance, Baltimore’s explosiveness, Philly’s redemption, and Detroit’s rise.
Football seasons are unpredictable, and injuries, trades, or breakout stars can rewrite the narrative. But as it stands, these five teams look ready to define the season.
Fans, bettors, and analysts agree: the road to Super Bowl LX will run through them.
FAQs
Which team is the betting favorite right now?
The Chiefs and 49ers are neck and neck at the top of most sportsbooks.
Are the Lions really ready to win it all?
Yes. With their depth and leadership, they’re built to contend, not just compete.
Who’s the best dark horse pick?
The Bengals. Burrow at full strength makes them dangerous in any playoff scenario.
What team could disappoint despite high expectations?
The Eagles, if defensive struggles persist, are the biggest boom-or-bust candidate.
Which player could swing the Super Bowl race?
Christian McCaffrey. His health changes everything for San Francisco.
