The NFC South enters 2026 with pronounced parity, as preseason projections peg every team between roughly seven and nine wins amid roster turnover and a first-place schedule for several clubs. Tampa Bay holds a modest edge in trader consensus thanks to Baker Mayfield’s continuity and a revamped defense featuring returning standouts like Vita Vea, though the departures of Mike Evans and Lavonte David plus an early test against Cincinnati create uncertainty. New Orleans sits close behind behind second-year quarterback Tyler Shough, fresh additions such as Travis Etienne Jr., and an easier strength of schedule, while Carolina’s young core under Dave Canales and Atlanta’s ongoing pass-rush questions keep both sides within striking distance. Recent camp roster tweaks and injury designations across the division underscore how quickly momentum can shift before Week 1.