Super Bowl 2026 Odds: Why the Early Favorites Might Surprise You

Super Bowl 2026 Odds: Why the Early Favorites Might Surprise You

The confetti has settled from Super Bowl LIX, where the Philadelphia Eagles soared to victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in a dominant 40-22 performance. Jalen Hurts cemented his place in NFL history, earning the MVP award and leading his team to their second Super Bowl title in seven years. But as the echoes of the celebrations fade, the NFL world is already buzzing about Super Bowl 2026. Early odds are out, and while some familiar names top the list, the reasons behind their favoritism might raise an eyebrow or two.

The Usual Suspects…With a Twist

According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the Philadelphia Eagles (+600) are the frontrunners to hoist the Lombardi Trophy once again in Super Bowl LX. Fresh off their convincing win, it’s understandable that the Eagles are considered a top contender. Jalen Hurts is entering his prime, and the Eagles’ front office has proven adept at building a championship-caliber roster. However, history tells us that repeating as Super Bowl champions is a rare feat. The target on their back will be larger than ever, and the rest of the league will be gunning to dethrone them.

Right behind the Eagles are the Baltimore Ravens (+700) and the Buffalo Bills (+750). Both teams boast elite quarterbacks in Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen, respectively, and have consistently been in the Super Bowl conversation in recent years. The Ravens, in particular, are generating significant buzz after a strong offseason. According to Pro Football Network, the Ravens are the top-ranked team heading into the 2025 season, citing Lamar Jackson’s continued excellence and key re-signings like Ronnie Stanley. The acquisition of veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins could also provide a significant boost to their offense.

The Kansas City Chiefs (+850), despite their Super Bowl LIX loss, remain a formidable force. Patrick Mahomes is still the best quarterback in the league, and Andy Reid is a master strategist. However, the Chiefs’ aura of invincibility has diminished slightly, and questions linger about their ability to consistently dominate on both sides of the ball.

The Lions Roar: A Surprise Contender?

Perhaps the most intriguing team among the early favorites is the Detroit Lions (+1000). After years of struggling, the Lions have emerged as a legitimate contender under head coach Dan Campbell. Their high-powered offense, led by quarterback Jared Goff and a talented group of receivers, was one of the league’s best in 2024. According to Pro Football Network, the Lions posted the best Offense+ grade of the 2024 season, ranking third-best in their database since 2019.

The Lions’ aggressive and fearless style of play has captured the hearts of fans, and many believe they are ready to take the next step and compete for a Super Bowl title. However, the Lions still have some question marks on defense, and their lack of playoff experience could be a factor.

Dark Horses and Potential Upsets

Beyond the top contenders, several teams could surprise in 2026. The Washington Commanders (+1900) are an intriguing option, particularly with the emergence of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. According to NFL Spin Zone, the Commanders may have the NFL’s next elite, generational QB in Jayden Daniels. If Daniels can quickly adapt to the NFL, the Commanders could become a force to be reckoned with in the NFC.

The Los Angeles Rams (+1700) are another team to watch. After a disappointing 2023 season, the Rams rebounded in 2024 and made a playoff run. Quarterback Matthew Stafford is still playing at a high level, and the Rams’ offense has the potential to be explosive. The Rams also made a significant offseason move by signing star wide receiver Davante Adams, giving Stafford another weapon in the passing game.

The Impact of Offseason Moves

The NFL offseason is a time of constant change, and the moves teams make can significantly impact their Super Bowl chances. Several key trades and free agent signings have already shaken up the landscape.

  • Stefon Diggs to the New England Patriots: The Patriots desperately needed to upgrade their receiving corps, and the acquisition of Diggs gives them a true No. 1 receiver.

  • D.K. Metcalf to the Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers’ offense has been stagnant in recent years, and Metcalf’s arrival could provide a spark.

  • Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders: The Raiders are looking for stability at quarterback, and Smith could be the answer.

Expert Predictions

So, who do the experts think will win Super Bowl 2026? The Sporting News polled a panel of NFL experts, and their predictions were split. Bill Bender and Vinnie Iyer both picked the Eagles to win, while Matt Lutovsky predicted a Lions victory over the Chiefs. Sloan Piva and Bryan Murphy both favored a Bills-Commanders Super Bowl matchup.

ChatGPT, the AI model, is also weighing in on the Super Bowl 2026 predictions. According to Sportsbook Review, ChatGPT predicts the Buffalo Bills will win Super Bowl 2026, defeating the Detroit Lions.

Why the Surprise?

The early Super Bowl 2026 odds highlight the ever-changing nature of the NFL. While the usual suspects are near the top, the presence of teams like the Lions and Commanders demonstrates that anything is possible. The NFL is a league of parity, and a few key offseason moves or the emergence of a young quarterback can quickly transform a team’s fortunes.

As the 2025 season approaches, it will be fascinating to see which of these early favorites can live up to the hype and which dark horses will emerge as legitimate Super Bowl contenders. One thing is certain: the road to Super Bowl 2026 will be filled with surprises.