On this episode of The Underdog NFL Show, Chris Horwedel delivers a complete 2026 AFC North preview, breaking down the Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns ahead of a season filled with coaching changes, quarterback questions and major roster turnover.
Baltimore enters as the division favorite despite replacing John Harbaugh, changing offensive coordinators and losing several important contributors, including Tyler Linderbaum. Chris examines Lamar Jackson’s health, Derrick Henry’s continued dominance, Zay Flowers’ emergence and the Ravens’ attempt to rebuild their pass rush by adding Trey Hendrickson. The draft brought offensive lineman Vega Ioane, edge rusher Zion Young and receivers Ja’Kobi Lane and Elijah “Waffle House” Sarratt.
The Bengals remain one of the NFL’s most dangerous teams whenever Joe Burrow is healthy. Chris analyzes Cincinnati’s elite group of Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and Chase Brown, along with the offensive line’s responsibility to keep Burrow available. After fielding one of football’s worst defenses, the Bengals responded by adding Dexter Lawrence, Jonathan Allen, Boye Mafe, Bryan Cook and Kyle Dugger.
Pittsburgh begins a new era after Mike Tomlin’s departure. Mike McCarthy takes over as head coach and reunites with Aaron Rodgers for the quarterback’s final NFL season. The Steelers added Michael Pittman Jr., Rico Dowdle, Jamel Dean, Asante Samuel Jr. and Jaquan Brisker while drafting tackle Max Iheanachor, receiver Germie Bernard and developmental quarterback Drew Allar.
Cleveland continues rebuilding around a talented young defense after trading Myles Garrett to the Rams for Jared Verse and multiple premium draft picks. Chris reviews the Browns’ crowded quarterback competition involving Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel and rookie Taylen Green. Cleveland also rebuilt its offensive line and added first-round receiving help with K.C. Concepcion and Denzel Boston.
The episode compares each team’s free-agent additions, departures, draft classes, roster strengths and biggest concerns. Chris also reviews the latest AFC North, conference, Super Bowl and Week 1 markets from oddsmakers before revealing his projected divisional order and the team he believes offers the most interesting value.
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