NFL Super Bowl Contenders – Ranked 25/26

September 2, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

As the 2025–26 NFL season approaches, a handful of teams are already being eyed as serious Super Bowl contenders. Some are proven powerhouses. Others are surging with young talent or elite defenses. We've ranked the top 8 teams most likely to win it all — in reverse order, from #10 to #1.

10. Cincinnati Bengals

This offense is built to explode, and Joe Burrow has proven time and time again that he can perform under pressure. But while they can light up the scoreboard, the Bengals’ Achilles heel is defense — they’ll need to tighten up if they want another deep playoff run.

9. Washington Commanders

The 2024 Offensive Rookie of the Year has the tools to become a franchise QB, and Washington has added protection (Josh Conerly Jr.) and new weapons to help him thrive. If the defense can hold up, this team is a dangerous wild card.

8. Denver Broncos

Bo Nix is developing fast, and the front office has armed him with new playmakers in Evan Engram, RJ Harvey, and Pat Bryant. But it’s the defense — arguably the league’s best — that makes Denver a potential disruptor in the AFC playoff picture.

7. Kansas City Chiefs

Yes, they fell short last season. But a Patrick Mahomes-led team can never be counted out. Their offensive line must protect better, especially after being outplayed in the Super Bowl, but if that’s fixed, they’re a title threat as always.

6. Detroit Lions

The Lions have been on the brink, but defensive struggles and the departure of their offensive coordinator cast some doubt. Still, Jared Goff and the offense can go toe-to-toe with anyone, and if the defense can hold, Detroit could go all the way.

5. Baltimore Ravens

Lamar Jackson is poised for another MVP-caliber season, and the Ravens remain one of the most well-rounded rosters in the NFL. The question is the same as ever: can they get over their postseason struggles and win when it matters most?

4. Buffalo Bills

They’ve come close so many times, and this might be the year they finally get over the hump. Allen is playing at an elite level, and with offseason upgrades on defense, this team is more balanced than ever. Beating the Chiefs remains their final hurdle.

3. Philadelphia Eagles

Jalen Hurts and A.J. Brown return to lead a stacked offense — now with Saquon Barkley in the backfield. Add in a fearsome defensive front plus first-round pick Jihaad Campbell, and Philly looks like a juggernaut once again.

2. San Francisco 49ers

With Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, and George Kittle leading the offense — and one of the best defenses in football behind them — the Niners are built to return to the Super Bowl. If Brock Purdy stays sharp, they might finish what they started.

1. Dallas Cowboys

Micah Parsons leads a terrifying defense, and Dak Prescott is surrounded by more offensive weapons than ever. With an upgraded O-line and playoff heartbreak fueling the fire, 2025 could finally be the year Dallas puts it all together.