CBS Projects Broncos Repeat as AFC West Champs, Cowboys Take NFC East
CBS Sports released full 2026 season predictions, including the Broncos repeating as AFC West champions for the first time since their 2011-2015 run. The Cowboys are projected at 10-7 to win the NFC East, while the Eagles are slated at 9-8.
CBS's annual projections place Denver as repeat AFC West champions, a feat they haven't achieved since their 2011-2015 dynasty run. In the NFC East, Dallas is slated for a 10-7 record to edge out Philadelphia at 9-8. The author notes a strong track record, having predicted exact or near-exact records for 13 teams last season.
The author admits a major miss on Seattle, who won the Super Bowl after being predicted to miss the playoffs. This year, a bold AFC East call has New England missing the postseason, citing concerns about their pass rush without Harold Landry and an unproven offensive line facing early tests against Seattle and T.J. Watt.
These projections may shape fan expectations and betting markets, potentially influencing team morale or public discourse. Fans of the Broncos and Cowboys could feel optimism, while Patriots fans may face anxiety. Media narratives often shift based on such predictions, which could affect ticket sales or engagement. However, predictions are inherently uncertain, and actual performance will ultimately determine outcomes.