Jan. 23, 2026, 12:50 p.m. ET

The NFC South was far from settled in 2025. What looked like a division Tampa Bay could run away with instead tightened late, as injuries and uneven coaching decisions kept the race compressed. Carolina ultimately finished on top, while all three contenders posted identical 3–3 division records, underscoring how thin the margins were heading into the 2026 NFL Draft.

TeamOverall RecordDivision RecordCarolina Panthers8–93–3Tampa Bay Buccaneers8–93–3Atlanta Falcons8–93–3New Orleans Saints6–113–3Carolina Panthers

Pick #: 19

Carolina’s first-place finish gives them the latest pick among NFC South teams in the 2026 draft. A late-season surge and a Wild Card win over the Rams showed flashes of progression from the young team, but week-to-week inconsistency limited a deeper run. The Panthers are expected to pick up Bryce Young’s fifth-year option in hopes of being competitive next season in the NFC. Drafting later in the draft positions the Panthers to reinforce rather than overhaul, particularly along the offensive and defensive fronts, as well as in some skill positions.

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Pick #: 15

The Buccaneers finished second after a strong season start faded into a crowded finish for the NFC South. Injuries and questionable playcalling kept Tampa from separating, leaving them with a mid-round selection among division rivals. That slot reflects a roster still capable of competing, but one with clear pressure points that must be addressed quickly to reclaim control of the South. If the Buccaneers want to be competitive next season, they need to get some help on special teams and settle the defensive positions for the future.

Atlanta Falcons

Pick #: No First Round Draft Pick (traded to Los Angeles Rams)

Atlanta’s season pivoted after an injury to Michael Penix forced Kirk Cousins back into the lineup. Written off midyear, the Falcons steadied their flight path and finished tied atop the standings. Their third-place finish places them squarely in the middle of the NFC South draft cluster, a spot that aligns with a team retooling under new head coach Kevin Stefanski. This roster isn’t in bad shape; look for the Falcons to continue turning up the defense and perhaps some skill position players.

New Orleans Saints

Pick #: 8

Despite finishing last, the Saints matched their rivals’ division record. A midseason quarterback change sparked a late rally as rookie Tyler Shough found his footing. Their earlier draft position reflects a longer road ahead, but the late momentum offers a foundation as New Orleans looks to reset key areas of the roster, such as linebacker and offensive and defensive line consistency.

The 2026 draft order mirrors a division without a clear hierarchy. With minimal turnover across the NFC South and all four teams within striking distance, draft positioning and how it is utilized could be the difference in who takes control of the NFC South next season.