2026 NFL Strength of Schedule: Ranking All Teams, Including Bears
The Chicago Bears have emerged from the shadows of mediocrity to claim the spotlight, closing the 2025 season with an impressive 11-6 record. Under the astute leadership of head coach Ben Johnson, they surged from worst to first, winning the NFC North title and securing their first postseason victory in 15 years. Now, as they look to the 2026 season, they face the daunting challenge of the toughest strength of schedule in the NFL, an endeavor that will test their newfound success and solidify their trajectory. This moment serves as a tactical hedge against complacency, revealing the critical mindset shift required for sustained performance.
Overview of the 2026 NFL Strength of Schedule
With a win-loss percentage of .550, the Bears will contend against eight playoff teams from last season and an overwhelming 11 teams with a .500+ win percentage. The implications of such a rigorous schedule cannot be understated as the Bears aim to build on their recent triumphs. Notably, their opponents, boasting a collective win-loss record of 158-129-2, presents a formidable landscape that demands versatility and resilience.
| Team | Strength of Schedule |
|---|---|
| Chicago Bears | .550 |
| Miami Dolphins | .542 |
| Arizona Cardinals | .538 |
| Green Bay Packers | .538 |
| Kansas City Chiefs | .536 |
| New England Patriots | .531 |
| Las Vegas Raiders | .529 |
| Buffalo Bills | .528 |
| Los Angeles Chargers | .522 |
| Carolina Panthers | .521 |
| Minnesota Vikings | .519 |
| New York Jets | .517 |
| Los Angeles Rams | .516 |
| Seattle Seahawks | .514 |
| Denver Broncos | .512 |
| Washington Commanders | .502 |
| New York Giants | .498 |
| San Francisco 49ers | .497 |
| Pittsburgh Steelers | .495 |
| Dallas Cowboys | .493 |
| Tampa Bay Buccaneers | .491 |
| Jacksonville Jaguars | .490 |
| Philadelphia Eagles | .481 |
| Baltimore Ravens | .479 |
| Tennessee Titans | .476 |
| Houston Texans | .474 |
| Detroit Lions | .467 |
| Atlanta Falcons | .465 |
| Indianapolis Colts | .465 |
| Cincinnati Bengals | .450 |
| New Orleans Saints | .434 |
| Cleveland Browns | .429 |
The Ripple Effect Across Markets
This situation echoes beyond Chicago’s city limits, resonating across the North American sports landscape. The success of the Bears revitalizes their fans, bolstering the local economy through increased attendance and merchandise sales. Similarly, media narratives around quarterback Caleb Williams, now paired with Johnson, echo past instances where quarterbacks became franchise pillars in the UK and Australian football markets. The buzz around the Bears candor creates an anticipatory atmosphere for fans in Canada, while the tension surrounding the NFC North will spread to teams evaluating similar coaching dynamics.
Projected Outcomes for the Bears in the 2026 Season
As the Bears navigate this treacherous schedule, three significant developments are pivotal to watch:
- Caleb Williams’ Development: His growth under pressure will dictate Chicago’s offensive progression. Early struggles could lead to recalibrated offensive strategies, whereas consistent performance might confirm him as a franchise cornerstone.
- Defensive Adjustments: The Bears’ defense must adapt to elite-level competition. Key personnel changes or shifts in scheme could reveal the organization’s agility in response to challenges.
- Community Engagement: Increasing fan engagement can amplify the team’s momentum. Initiatives aimed at local youth programs might not only expand fan bases but also solidify community support.
The path forward is laden with challenges, but bolstered by a strong coaching strategy and a talented roster, the Bears are on the precipice of a defining era. The stakes are high, and how they respond will shape not only their immediate success but also their legacy within the league.
