The NFC South could be one of the most interesting divisions to watch in the NFL this season. After a wild 2025 campaign that saw the Carolina Panthers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons all finish 8-9, there doesn’t appear to be a clear favorite heading into 2026. Carolina won the division on a tiebreaker last year, but repeating won’t be easy.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers may have the best chance to take the division back. Baker Mayfield returns at quarterback, and the Bucs have made moves to improve their offensive line and defensive front.

The Panthers shouldn’t be overlooked. Bryce Young enters another important season, and Carolina added talent around him. If Young takes another step forward, Carolina could once again be playing meaningful football late in the season.

Atlanta is also worth watching. The Falcons hired Kevin Stefanski after finishing 8-9 last season, and they’re hoping his experience can help get the team back into the playoffs.

Then there are the New Orleans Saints. After a rough start last season, New Orleans finished strong and enters 2026 with plenty of questions but also some optimism around its young quarterback situation.

We will see who takes it this year.