​Several NFC teams have reason to feel optimistic about the upcoming NFL season. Some barely missed the playoffs, while others were on the cusp of advancing. Regardless, these are the most promising NFC squads with a real shot to make some noise this year.
The Carolina Panthers surprised many last season by not only clinching their division but also earning a playoff berth and giving the Los Angeles Rams a scare. Bryce Young clearly emerged as the team’s leader, showing flashes of the elite playmaker we saw at Alabama. The defense had its moments, but it was the Panthers’ offense that carried the load. If they can continue to perform at a high level, it wouldn’t be shocking to see them win the division again and push deeper into the postseason.
Some pundits will dismiss it, but this could genuinely be the year for the Dallas Cowboys. Owner Jerry Jones has finally opened the wallet, pursuing key free agents and making strategic trades. He seems to have realized that a strong offense alone won’t bring a championship and that a more complete roster is necessary. If the Cowboys stay healthy and cohesive, they could mount a serious championship run.
Then there’s the Chicago Bears, a team that many should be watching closely. With Caleb Williams at the helm, who has proven he belongs among the elite after a standout Heisman campaign, the Bears appear to be reclaiming their swagger. Their surprise playoff push last season announced their arrival as legitimate contenders in what’s become a tougher division. They’ll face stiff competition, but don’t count them out of the equation—these Bears are dangerous when firing on all cylinders.
The San Francisco 49ers may not qualify as a surprise team, given their recent track record, but they certainly earned respect by defeating the defending Super Bowl favorites, the Rams, last season. San Francisco has come tantalizingly close to a title in recent years, yet persistent injuries have hampered their playoff runs. The addition of veteran receiver Mike Evans, acquired from Tampa Bay, is already creating a noticeable impact, though Evans himself has dealt with injuries in the past season. For the 49ers to finally push past their rivals and prove they can contend for a championship, staying healthy is essential—whether they’re chasing the Rams or the Seattle Seahawks.
This feature originally appeared on Touchdown Wire under the title Four NFC sleepers who could make a Super Bowl run, with a focus on better SEO.