NFLPA Report Card: Bottom 10 Teams Revealed

  nflpa-report-card-bottom-10-teams-revealed.html
  Travel and Leisure on Fri, Feb 13th, 2026 by Sporting News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Identifying the Problem Franchises: A Deep Dive into the Bottom 10

This year, the Arizona Cardinals took the dubious honor of receiving the lowest grade (F) for the second consecutive year. This repeated failure points to systemic issues within the organization, with players consistently expressing serious concerns regarding ownership and the overall team environment. What does this look like in practice? Sources suggest a lack of investment in player development, poor communication from leadership, and a general sense that player input is disregarded.

Following closely behind, the Cleveland Browns (D-) and Carolina Panthers (D-) continue to struggle. The Browns, perpetually under scrutiny, are cited for issues with front office management and a perceived lack of respect for players. This isn't necessarily about lavish perks; it's about being treated as professionals, having concerns addressed, and feeling valued by the organization. The Panthers, meanwhile, appear to be grappling with questions surrounding the coaching staff's direction and the long-term vision for the team. Instability at the coaching position often leads to a lack of consistent player development and a fractured team culture.

The New York Jets (D) and New England Patriots (D) round out the bottom five, demonstrating that even traditionally successful franchises aren't immune to these issues. The Jets' frustrations are rooted in a perceived lack of transparency from the front office and a feeling that player voices are not being heard. This is particularly problematic for veteran players who expect a degree of collaboration and input into team decisions. The Patriots' significant drop in grade from previous years is particularly noteworthy. Historically known for a tight-knit and highly-respected organization, the current player feedback indicates a growing disconnect between players and the front office and ownership, suggesting a potential shift in the organization's core values.

The remaining teams - Jacksonville Jaguars (D), Washington Commanders (D+), Chicago Bears (D+), Tennessee Titans (D), and Las Vegas Raiders (D) - each face specific challenges. The Jaguars struggle with facilities and overall management; the Commanders with lingering issues stemming from past ownership controversies; the Bears with front office direction; the Titans with facility upkeep and ownership engagement; and the Raiders with coaching staff concerns and team culture.

What Does This Mean for the Future of the NFL?

The NFLPA report card serves as a stark reminder that player well-being and a positive team environment are not simply "soft" issues. They are fundamental to a team's long-term success. In today's NFL, players have more agency than ever before. With the rise of social media and increased unionization efforts, players are more willing to speak out about issues they perceive within their organizations.

Teams that consistently score poorly on the NFLPA report card risk losing out on free agent signings and facing difficulties retaining existing talent. Players are increasingly prioritizing factors beyond salary, seeking organizations that value their input, provide strong leadership, and foster a positive team culture. The NFL is a business, but it's also a league built on human capital. Ignoring the concerns of its players is a recipe for disaster. The coming years will likely see increased pressure on struggling franchises to address these concerns and create a more positive and supportive environment for their players.