NFL 2026: The 13 Narratives Set to Define the Season

Previewing the 2026 NFL season, this piece outlines 13 key narratives shaping expectations—from the Rams’ Super Bowl hype and Aaron Donald’s return, to Mahomes’ knee rehab, Kyler Murray’s Vikings stint, Caleb Williams with the Bears, Jalen Hurts’ revamped Eagles, QB pressure on Allen and Jackson, the 49ers’ health questions, the Cowboys’ defensive overhaul, Burrow’s bold talk with a strengthened Bengals defense, Rodgers’ final season in Pittsburgh, Stroud’s rebound prospects, Cleveland’s QB carousel, and Baker Mayfield’s contract-year gamble.