Fans haven't had much to celebrate at MetLife Stadium in recent years, but an NFL analyst offered hope for the New York Giants and Jets trending in the right direction this season. ESPN's Bill Barnwell identified the Giants and Jets among his top candidates to improve in 2026. They're joined by more prominent bounce-back contenders in the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, and Detroit Lions.
The Giants won just four games last season, but Barnwell noted that they "quietly had a more competitive season." They lost six games in which they led or were tied during the fourth quarter despite having a 90% win probability in four of them. Despite the latest down year, Giants fans have some reasons for optimism. The organization hired new head coach John Harbaugh, who will lead a promising offensive nucleus featuring second-year quarterback Jaxson Dart, running back Cam Skattebo, star left tackle Andrew Thomas, and returning wide receiver Malik Nabers.
Barnwell believes the offense has "a high ceiling and a low floor" if they stay healthy. While the defense took a big hit by trading Dexter Lawrence, they added No. 5 pick Arvell Reese to a potentially dangerous pass rush led by Brian Burns. "I believe they have a legitimate shot at surprising the league and becoming a last-place team that jumps into the playoffs in 2026, but so much will depend on whether the offensive standouts stay healthy for much (or all) of the year," Barnwell wrote.
Meanwhile, the Jets are still seeking their first playoff appearance since 2010. Barnwell didn't predict an end to that NFL-worst drought, but he doesn't see Aaron Glenn's second season going as poorly as last year's 3-14 result. Along with becoming the first NFL team not to intercept a pass all year, the Jets also had the NFL's second-lowest fumble recovery rate.
Even modestly improving their -19 turnover margin could make a considerable difference. Barnwell also pointed to Gang Green's "massive roster upgrades" this offseason. After trading Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams during the 2025 campaign, the Jets reloaded with multiple early draft picks and a free-agent class featuring quarterback Geno Smith.
While he cautioned fans not to expect too much, Barnwell doesn't necessarily see the Jets vying for next year's No. 1 draft pick either. "This was the worst team in the NFL a year ago by advanced metrics, so setting expectations appropriately is important," Barnwell advised. "It would be truly stunning to see the Jets fly up the AFC charts and compete for a playoff berth, let alone land one.
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