Upcoming 2025-2026 NFL Season: Four Previous Non-Playoff Squads Worth Watching Closely

The upcoming NFL season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with several teams showing promise and potential for a strong showing. One team that stands out is the San Francisco 49ers, who have been blessed with the league's easiest schedule for the 2022-2023 season. However, their success will depend on whether they can overcome the challenges they faced last season, as they were the most injured team in the league during the 2021-2022 season.

Despite their struggles, the 49ers managed to finish with a record of 6-11. The NFC West division is a question mark, with no teams expected to be elite or terrible. The 49ers have odds of +155 to win their division, +900 to win the NFC, and +2,000 to win the Super Bowl.

Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals had a mixed season last year. They finished the 2021-2022 season with a record of 9-8, but went 4-7 in one-score games. The Bengals were one of the league's biggest disappointments, but they have a strong roster, led by quarterback Joe Burrow and receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. The Bengals have odds of +290 to win their division, +1,100 to win the AFC, and +2,200 to win the Super Bowl.

The Jacksonville Jaguars also had a promising start in the 2021-2022 season, but went into a tailspin that hasn't stopped. The current starting quarterback for the Jaguars is Trevor Lawrence, and Travis Hunter, the Heisman Trophy winner, is playing as a defensive back for the team. The Jaguars have odds of +270 to win their division, +4,500 to win the AFC, and +10,000 to win the Super Bowl.

Last season, the Atlanta Falcons struggled with inconsistent quarterback play, as Kirk Cousins was not successful. However, they have a new starting quarterback in Michael Penix, Jr. The Falcons have odds of +220 to win their division, +4,000 to win the NFC, and +9,000 to win the Super Bowl.

As the 2025-2026 NFL season approaches, it's clear that several teams have the potential to make a strong run. The San Francisco 49ers, Cincinnati Bengals, and Jacksonville Jaguars will all be teams to watch, as they look to turn their fortunes around and make a playoff run.