NFL Team That Missed The Playoffs Is Somehow Favored To Win 15 Of 17 Games In 2026 — How Did This Happen?
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
The Cincinnati Bengals missed the playoffs last NFL season, finishing 6-11. That usually leaves everyone feeling hopeless heading into a new year. Instead, the Bengals now sit near the top of the league in projected expectations for 2026.
According to betting odds discussed by Adam Schefter, Cincinnati enters the season favored in 15 of its 17 games. Only one team reportedly ranks higher. That jump has shocked many around the league, considering how last season ended.
Schefter pointed directly to quarterback Joe Burrow as the reason for the dramatic shift. “If Joe Burrow is out there and Joe Burrow is healthy, they’re going to be favored in 15 games,” Schefter said during his breakdown of the early odds.
The confidence around Cincinnati did not come from Burrow alone. The Bengals attacked the offseason aggressively. The front office traded the No. 10 overall draft pick to the New York Giants for Pro Bowl defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II. The move surprised many because Cincinnati rarely parts with premium draft picks.
Joe Burrow Thinks This Bengals Team Can Win It All
Burrow made it clear that he believes this roster can compete for a championship right now. During voluntary workouts, he told reporters, “We’re going to go win a lot of games this year and play great and win a Super Bowl.”
https://t.co/4VM4uAM33z pic.twitter.com/zHC0d51tJS
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 21, 2026
The Bengals also added pass rusher Boye Mafe and safety Bryan Cook in free agency. Burrow praised the front office for bringing in players who already understand winning standards.
“I think this is the most talented roster that we’ve had since I’ve been here,” Burrow said.
He also backed the trade for Lawrence without hesitation. “It’s tough to find a guy at pick No. 10 that’s going to have more of an impact than Dexter will,” Burrow said.
The expectations now come with huge pressure. Cincinnati still needs to fix the problems that have affected the team over the last few seasons. The offensive line must protect Burrow better. The defense must avoid weekly breakdowns. The coaching staff must deliver consistency from Week 1 through January.
Still, oddsmakers clearly believe the Bengals have enough talent to make a serious run. Burrow’s health completely changes the outlook, but many still raised concerns about his commitment. When he plays at his best, Cincinnati looks like one of the AFC’s toughest teams again.
