12 NFL Franchises Chase First Super Bowl Title in 2026

Fresh off the Brewers winning their first World Series in franchise history the week prior to November 4, 2026, focus shifts to the gridiron, where 12 NFL teams are still holding out hope to win their first-ever Super Bowl. As the season progresses through nine weeks, current 2026 NFL odds reflect the challenge these franchises face. As of November 4, 2026, DraftKings Sportsbook lists the odds of a first-time Super Bowl winner at +145 for "Yes" and -175 for "No."

Strong Starts for Title-Hungry Franchises

Several teams aiming for their first Lombardi Trophy have opened the 2026 campaign with statement performances. Buffalo is 6-1 through nine weeks of the season. Meanwhile, Minnesota matches that 6-1 record; the Vikings stood as the last undefeated team in the NFL before falling at Detroit in Week 8.

Other franchises are also navigating early-season adversity to post winning records. Chicago is 6-2 despite an early-season injury to Caleb Williams that sidelined him for three games. However, the Bears have struggled within their own group, sitting at 0-2 in their division.

Familiar Faces Dominating the Standings

While the 12 winless franchises push for history, several traditional powers are also off to fast starts. San Francisco is 6-1 through nine weeks of the season after falling at Atlanta in Week 7. Denver is 6-2, with its only losses coming at Kansas City in Week 1 and at San Francisco.

The Challenge of Breaking Through

Recent history shows how difficult it is for new teams to hoist the Lombardi Trophy. Over the last 30 years, only 13 franchises have won the Super Bowl: Seattle, Philadelphia, New England, Kansas City, Denver, Green Bay, Baltimore, Pittsburgh, New Orleans, Indianapolis, Tampa Bay, the New York Giants, and the Rams.

The last time a franchise won its first Super Bowl was in Super Bowl LII during the 2017-18 season, when the Philadelphia Eagles secured their first championship. The Eagles subsequently lost to Kansas City in Super Bowl LVII and beat K.C. in Super Bowl LIX. Prior to Philadelphia's breakthrough, the New Orleans Saints won their first Super Bowl in Super Bowl XLIV during the 2009-10 season.