As the 2026 NFL season approaches, optimism fills the air with teams ready to make a playoff push. However, this preview focuses on the projected last-place finishers across the league. Here are the teams expected to struggle:

AFC East: Miami Dolphins

• 2025 season finish: 7-10 (third place)
  The Dolphins are in tank mode, burdened by an NFL-record dead salary cap hit of $181.6 million. Despite new head coach Jeff Hafley's optimistic statements, the team has released key players like Tua Tagovailoa and Tyreek Hill. Miami’s focus appears to be on the 2027 offseason, leading to a last-place finish.

AFC North: Cleveland Browns

• 2025 season finish: 5-12 (last place)
  Deshaun Watson starts as the quarterback, but his struggles continue after injuries and off-field issues. If benched, Shedeur Sanders will take over, but with poor stats, the Browns face a challenging season ahead.

AFC South: Tennessee Titans

• 2025 season finish: 3-14 (last place)
  While the Titans show promise with Cam Ward, their offensive line remains a concern. Competing against stronger teams like the Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars means the Titans might finish last again.

AFC West: Las Vegas Raiders

• 2025 season finish: 3-14 (last place)
  With a revamped offense led by new head coach Klint Kubiak, the Raiders still need to address their offensive line issues. Facing fierce competition, they are likely to land at the bottom of the division.

NFC East: Washington Commanders

• 2025 season finish: 5-12 (third place)
  Injuries plague the offensive line, jeopardizing the career of Jayden Daniels, who missed significant time last season. A lack of support could lead to another disappointing year.

NFC North: Minnesota Vikings

• 2025 season finish: 9-8 (third place)
  Despite signing Kyler Murray, the Vikings are hindered by his injury history and lack of impactful defensive players. This combination could leave them in last place.

NFC South: Atlanta Falcons

• 2025 season finish: 8-9 (third place)
  The Falcons struggle with their pass rush and quarterback situation. Tua Tagovailoa’s poor performance last season raises concerns, setting them up for failure.

NFC West: Arizona Cardinals

• 2025 season finish: 3-14 (last place)
  Facing strong competitors like the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers, the Cardinals are unlikely to compete effectively, putting them at risk for the worst record in the league.