2026 NFL: South teams surge while Bears and Patriots slip

The 2026 NFL campaign sees the Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers and New Orleans Saints climbing the standings and challenging the league’s power balance. Their improved play and strategic adjustments have propelled the South division into a surge.

Conversely, the Chicago Bears and New England Patriots have struggled to replicate their 2025 surprise form, resulting in a clear regression. Experts attribute the shift to coaching changes, roster turnover, and lingering injuries.