The NFC has long been the NFL's most competitive conference, with nine different franchises reaching the Super Bowl over the past 15 seasons—compared to just six from the AFC. As we look ahead to the 2026 season, a clear top tier has emerged, followed by a group of teams that might win a playoff game but likely no more. At the center of the conversation: Are the Los Angeles Rams and Philadelphia Eagles the two best teams in the NFC?

Let's start with the Rams. Their roster is the most complete in the conference, and they made that clear during the draft weekend. By not using the 13th overall pick to fill an immediate need, they signaled that this selection was a luxury, not a necessity. In fact, the only draft pick expected to see the field this season is sixth-round wide receiver CJ Daniels. That kind of depth and confidence puts Los Angeles in a prime position to dominate.

The Eagles, meanwhile, made a splash on Day 1 of the draft by trading up to pick No. 20 to select wide receiver Makai Lemon. Many around the league expect Philadelphia to part ways with AJ Brown after June 1st, which would actually leave the Eagles with arguably the best wide receiver room in the NFL. If that move happens, their offensive firepower becomes nearly unmatched.

Now, what about the defending champions? They sit third on the list, and no, that's not being too harsh. They lost offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, along with key players like Kenneth Walker, Tariq Woolen, Boye Mafe, and Coby Bryant. While Sam Darnold may have more confidence after a strong finish, he still isn't a top-10 quarterback in this league. The defending champs have work to do.

As for the Chicago Bears, they could be a team that regresses in 2026. They won too many games in the final two minutes last season against a soft schedule, and now they face a first-place slate. Still, head coach Ben Johnson should keep them competitive. With nearly all offensive pieces returning and a retooled secondary, an 11-6 finish isn't out of reach.

The Green Bay Packers didn't have a first-round pick this year after trading for Micah Parsons. If they can get him back on the field, they'll challenge Chicago for the division crown. But the offensive line remains a major question mark. Matt LaFleur must find a way to protect Jordan Love for a full season if Green Bay wants to stay in the conversation.

So, are the Rams and Eagles the two best teams in the NFC heading into 2026? The roster depth, draft strategy, and offensive firepower certainly make a strong case—but the race is far from over.