NFL Off-season Review: 3 Teams that Missed the Playoffs Last year that will contend this season

A lot depends on health and luck, but here are the non-playoff teams from last season who I believe boosted their playoff chances this off-season. This is the NFL Off-season Review: Part One.

Dallas Cowboys (record last season: 7-9-1)

• The starting offense comes back fully intact. Key starters like kicker Brandon Aubrey and runningback Javonte Williams were re-signed, and stud wide receiver George Pickens was franchise tagged. The only additions to the offense via free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft are projected to be backups this season. This should once again be one of the top offenses in the NFL.
• The defense is where most of the resources rightfully went. That side of the ball will be fielding no less than five new starters. Otito Ogbonnia, Rashan Gary, Cobie Durant, and Jalen Thompson are projected to fill some of those holes this season. Dallas also hired a new defensive coordinator in Christian Parker – who was Philadelphia’s defensive backs coach and defensive pass game coordinator last season. Any real improvement in this unit will push this team closer to contender status.
• First round steal Caleb Downs will be playing a ton at both safety and in the slot as a rookie. Fellow first round pick Malachi Lawrence will look to make an immediate impact as a rotational edge rusher. Jaishawn Barham (linebacker), Devin Moore (cornerback), and L.T. Overton (defensive line) are poised to be key backups at their respective positions. Each of these rookies has the potential to play big roles as the season goes on.

N.Y. Giants (record last season: 4-13)

• The Giants brought in John Harbaugh as head coach after his dismissal from the Ravens. The team signed a bunch of his guys from Baltimore who were free agents. Of the five former Ravens signed by the Giants, only punter Jordan Stout and tight end Isaiah Likely are expected to be starters. Harbaugh is widely viewed as one of the best coaches in the NFL, and immediately brings legitimacy to a Giants franchise needing a boost.
• Big Blue had one of the best Draft classes this year. Arvell Reese was arguably the top defensive player in this Draft, and will learn how to play linebacker in the NFL from former Pro Bowler Tremaine Edmunds. Francis Mauigoa was a right tackle in college, but will look to solidify right guard for the Giants. Malachi Fields brings some much needed size to the wide receiver room, and adds another red zone target. Colton Hood will compete with fellow newcomer Greg Newsome for snaps at cornerback on the outside.
• The defensive line underwent a major overhaul. Gone are former All-Pro nose tackle Dexter Lawrence, Rakeem Nunez-Roches, D.J. Davidson, and Marlon Tuipulotu. Lawrence was traded to the Bengals for the 10th overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft, and the rest left via free agency. Free agent signings Sam Roberts, DJ Reader, and Shelby Harris are currently slated to play a ton, with Leki Fotu and last year’s third round pick, Darius Alexander, providing depth.

Cincinnati Bengals (record last season: 6-11)

• Just like the Dallas Cowboys, Cincinnati has its entire starting offense – and most key reserves – coming back. Starting right guard Dalton Risner and backup quarterback Joe Flacco were the only major free agents on the offensive side of the ball, and both were re-signed. If the defense can just be average, and Joe Burrow is healthy, this team has a Super Bowl ceiling.
• Cincinnati’s defensive line has been totally reshaped. Former All-Pro Trey Hendrickson and Joseph Ossai signed elsewhere. The Bengals gave Boye Mafe a three year deal, and drafted speed demon Cashius Howell to fill their shoes. Defensive tackles T.J. Slaton and B.J. Hill have been properly relegated to backup duties. Signing Jonathan Allen was a good start, but then Cincy sent the 10th overall pick for Dexter Lawrence. Lawrence is the best defensive tackle this team has had since Geno Atkins.
• Cincinnati had a solid 2026 Draft – even if they’re all rotational guys/backups for this season. Howell joins a deep edge group with Mafe, Myles Murphy, and last year’s first rounder Shemar Stewart. Cornerback Tacario Davis should push for time on the outside, with Daxton Hill moving into the slot full time. Brian Parker II and Connor Lew add quality depth and versatility along the offensive line. Colbie Young was a bit of a reach, but he gives the Bengals another red zone target and depth at receiver.