With the 2026 NFL season entering its second half, ESPN reporters have evaluated the performance of all 32 teams following the first nine weeks. While early season predictions have been largely validated, a series of blockbuster trades and unexpected injuries have altered the competitive landscape. The Jacksonville Jaguars made significant moves on the defensive front, while the New York Giants appear to have found stability under head coach John Harbaugh. In Las Vegas, quarterback Fernando Mendoza is expected to take over as starter this week after a recent trade, and the race for Rookie of the Year remains wide open with no standout candidate yet.
The San Francisco 49ers currently hold the number one spot in ESPN's Football Power Index, boasting a 99.3 percent chance of making the playoffs. Despite injuries to key players like defensive end Nick Bosa and wide receiver Mike Evans, the team has secured seven wins. Quarterback Brock Purdy has led the league in Quarterback Rating with a score of 82.5, providing stability by starting and finishing all eight games he has played. The team believes that continued development of its young starters could elevate their performance further in the coming weeks.
The Buffalo Bills rank second in the power index with a 99.8 percent playoff probability. Their offense, led by the partnership between quarterback Josh Allen and head coach Joe Brady, is scoring at historic rates. Allen maintains a league-leading average of 8.6 yards per attempt, even while missing wide receiver DJ Moore for much of the season. However, the defense, particularly the secondary, has struggled with communication issues. The Bills face a grueling stretch from Thanksgiving to Christmas, playing five consecutive games against contenders, which will likely determine their status as AFC favorites.
The Cincinnati Bengals sit at number three, driven by an offense that ranks first in third down conversion percentage. Quarterback Joe Burrow has excelled at stretching the field vertically, posting a 99.3 QBR on throws of 15 air yards or more. While the passing attack has masked some defensive inconsistencies, the team must maintain its high red zone efficiency to stay competitive. The Bengals have the seventh toughest remaining schedule for quarterbacks, which will test their offensive depth.
The Jacksonville Jaguars, ranked fourth, are winning by historic margins. They have recorded four victories by 23 or more points, a franchise record. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence has achieved the league's lowest off target percentage at 9.2 percent, a career best attributed to improved footwork. However, the defense faces challenges in generating sacks, with edge rushers Josh Hines Allen and Travon Walker combining for only five sacks. The team must improve its pass rush to handle upcoming opponents like Caleb Williams and Aaron Rodgers.
The Denver Broncos occupy the fifth position in the rankings, known for their ability to win close games. They have won 16 consecutive one score regular season games, an NFL record. Quarterback Bo Nix has struggled with big play production, ranking 30th in air yards per attempt. The team's secondary has been plagued by injuries, and their inability to create plays of 20 yards or more remains a concern for their postseason prospects. Running back Jonah Coleman has emerged as a key offensive weapon, leading the team in explosive run rate.
The Chicago Bears, ranked sixth, have solidified their status as NFC contenders with a 7 2 record. Their acquisition of defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons has paid immediate dividends, and quarterback Caleb Williams has shown improved efficiency since returning from injury. Williams leads the NFL in completion percentage when not under pressure. The Bears will face four NFC North opponents in the second half, a critical stretch for gaining divisional ground. Wide receiver Luther Burden III has been a standout performer since Williams returned, averaging 20.1 fantasy points per game.
The Kansas City Chiefs hold the seventh spot, buoyed by the elite production of running back Kenneth Walker III. The defense has contributed significantly with 11 takeaways. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes has not completed a pass of over 20 air yards since Week 4, relying instead on shorter throws. An injury to his right elbow in the most recent game raises concerns about his availability, particularly given the struggles of the offensive line. Walker III is currently a top two running back in the league for fantasy purposes, while Mahomes has scored over 20 fantasy points only once.
The Detroit Lions, ranked eighth, have seen their defense improve significantly after a rough start. The unit has allowed fewer than 20 points in three straight games, tying their longest streak in a decade. Quarterback Jared Goff broke a long active streak of games with a passing touchdown but has tied the franchise record for wins since joining the organization. The return of All Pro safety Kerby Joseph from a chronic knee injury could further strengthen the defense as the team looks to maintain its momentum in the second half.
