Every NFC East team's biggest reason for optimism in 2026

Very few divisions can ever match the star power of the NFL’s NFC East, which consists of the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, and Washington Commanders. Games in this division are always hard-nosed and tough- sometimes shootouts, sometimes defensive showdowns- but always intriguing regardless of standings by the end of the season. Let’s look at each NFC East team’s reason for optimism in 2026.

Philadelphia Eagles – Always elite roster construction keeps them in the Super Bowl picture

It seems that the Eagles are always reloading instead of rebuilding, and for that, they are always in the running for the division title. Yes, Eagles coach Nick Sirianni will be on the hot seat if they are one-and-done in the playoffs, but they have replenished positions to prevent that. After some dysfunction with A.J. Brown‘s departure and questions about whether Jalen Hurts is truly liked, expect the Eagles to “fly” when it comes postseason time.

Washington Commanders – Will Jayden Daniels return to rookie form?

Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels will be just fine and return to the caliber of play that led the Commanders deep into the playoffs a couple of years ago. Battling numerous injuries last season completely derailed it. Terry McLaurin is back as a full-season weapon, and Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles fell into their lap in the NFL Draft. Nine starters missed at least seven games each last season. They will be back in the thick of it quickly.

Dallas Cowboys – The defense has to be better, right?

The Cowboys’ defense allowed a franchise-worst 511 points last season, which is the sixth most in NFL history, by the way. They had the No. 32-ranked pass defense and the No. 30-ranked overall defense. They gave up 35 passing touchdowns and 59 total touchdowns. That has to have been addressed, right? I do not expect another consecutive losing season because the offense will play very well. But they could very well find themselves at the bottom of the NFC East.

New York Giants – Can the Giants go from 7-27 the last 2 seasons to the playoffs? Possibly…

The New England Patriots did it, so why can’t the Giants do the same and turn things around? John Harbaugh received a hero’s welcome and a $100 million deal. Harbaugh was drawn to the Giants by the team’s young talent on both sides of the ball. If any coach can get them to the postseason, it’s John Harbaugh. As long as the team’s nucleus is healthy, the Giants are building something special that could wreak havoc over the next 3-5 years. This season will be better.

This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Every NFC East team’s biggest reason for optimism in 2026