The NFC East has struggled mightily this season, making NFL history in Week 6 as all four teams went winless for two consecutive weeks. This unprecedented performance came after Washington Commanders lost to the San Francisco 49ers on Monday night, resulting in a combined record of 0-6-2 for the division.

With Jalen Hurts expected to miss the rest of the season due to blood clots, the division race has become wildly unpredictable. Our analytics expert, Stephen Oh, simulated the remainder of the 2026 NFL season to project playoff outcomes, revealing a surprising forecast for the NFC East.

Projected AFC Playoff Field:

• 1. Chiefs (5-0) – AFC West champion
• 2. Bills (5-1) – AFC East champion
• 3. Jaguars (4-2) – AFC South champion
• 4. Ravens (4-2) – AFC North champion
• 5. Broncos (4-2)
• 6. Patriots (4-2)
• 7. Bengals (3-2)
  Just Missed: Steelers, Texans

Projected NFC Playoff Field:

• 1. 49ers (6-0) – NFC West champion
• 2. Vikings (5-0) – NFC North champion
• 3. Panthers (3-2) – NFC South champion
• 4. Giants (3-2-1) – NFC East champion
• 5. Lions (3-2)
• 6. Seahawks (3-3)
• 7. Packers (4-2)
  Just Missed: Bears

In a shocking twist, the Giants are projected to win the NFC East with an 8-8-1 record, narrowly edging the Cowboys at 8-9. The Giants' tie against the Commanders in Week 5 could ultimately determine the division champion.

As we advance towards the playoffs, the projections indicate that the Bills and Chiefs are on a collision course for another Super Bowl showdown, with the Chiefs expected to emerge victorious once again, defeating the 49ers in a close 24-23 finish at SoFi Stadium.

This season's narrative reflects the unpredictability of the NFL, particularly within the struggling NFC East, as fans look forward to seeing which team can rise from the ashes.