Anderson is a former Defensive Rookie of the Year who clearly has his supporters among the voting panel. The Texans’ edge rusher had 11 regular-season sacks last season and looks poised to take another leap.

The Bears have built around Caleb Williams by bolstering the offensive line in free agency and giving the young QB a couple of potential breakout receiving weapons via the draft. They have a new head coach in ex-Lions offensive wizard Ben Johnson and their defence, led by Montez Sweat and Jaylon Johnson, should be much improved. In a wide-open NFC North, Chicago could sneak into the postseason.

The Lions came within a whisker of reaching the big dance two years ago, falling to the Eagles in a thrilling NFC Championship. And they posted a league-best 15-2 regular-season record in 2024 before injuries finally took their toll in the postseason. But with continuity on both sides of the ball and a maturing core, Detroit look ready to take the final step.

Cincinnati’s defence quietly ranked top 10 in red zone efficiency last season and has added speed at linebacker and depth in the secondary. If Joe Burrow stays upright, the Bengals have the firepower to outgun anyone in the AFC.

The Lions came within a whisker of reaching the big dance two years ago, falling to the Eagles in a thrilling NFC Championship. And they posted a league-best 15-2 regular-season record in 2024 before injuries finally took their toll in the postseason. But with continuity on both sides of the ball and a maturing core, Detroit look ready to take the final step.