As we gear up for the summer, the usual suspects for Super Bowl LXI are already generating buzz. But let's be real—every season brings its share of surprises. Here are three dark horse teams that could shake things up in 2026 if everything clicks.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Last season marked the first time in Todd Bowles' four-year tenure that the Bucs missed the playoffs, snapping a streak dating back to 2019. They started strong at 6-2, but injuries derailed their momentum. If Baker Mayfield stays upright and Emeka Egbuka continues to develop into a reliable target, Tampa Bay could be a sneaky contender in the NFC South.

Indianapolis Colts
The Colts were on fire last year, jumping out to an 8-2 record before their bye week. But then came a brutal 0-7 finish that kept them out of the postseason. Here's the thing: before Daniel Jones went down in Week 14, they were 8-4, with all four losses coming by a combined 21 points—three of those teams eventually made the playoffs. If Jones bounces back from injury, don't sleep on the Colts in the AFC South.

Washington Commanders
Rookie sensation Jayden Daniels led Washington to a 12-5 record last year—their best since 1991—and snapped a 19-year playoff win drought, taking the team all the way to the NFC Championship Game. But Daniels battled multiple injuries, playing in just seven games and never finding his rhythm. With a healthy Daniels back under center, expect the Commanders to make serious noise in 2026.