SportsLine expert Eric Cohen reveals surprising 2026 NFL picks, projecting a Saints surge, a Packers decline, and a potential 60-1 Super Bowl LXI payout.

The 2026 NFL season schedule, released in May, immediately ignited a frenzy of wagers on team win totals and Super Bowl LXI futures. With win projections ranging from a modest 4.5 for teams like the Dolphins and Cardinals to a robust 10.5 for powerhouses such as the 49ers and Seahawks, fans and bettors are keenly eyeing every potential outcome.

However, the speculation doesn't stop at season-long totals. SportsLine NFL expert Eric Cohen has taken on the monumental task of simulating the entire 2026 NFL regular season and playoffs, offering detailed predictions for all 285 games. His comprehensive analysis also includes his top picks for win totals and a compelling Super Bowl LXI future.

Cohen boasts an impressive track record, having correctly hit three of four win total best bets and two of four division winner best bets in his 2024 season picks article. Last year, he was remarkably accurate with his NFL straight-up picks, going 180-91-1 (66%) in the 2025 regular season, according to reporting by CBS Sports - Headlines.

New Orleans Saints: An Unexpected Rise in 2026?

Eric Cohen is particularly bullish on the New Orleans Saints, projecting them to significantly exceed their current projected win total of 7.5 games. He forecasts the Saints to secure nine victories in 2026, marking a substantial improvement.

This optimism stems partly from rookie quarterback Tyler Shough's stellar finish to last season. Shough took over as starter for the final five games after Spencer Rattler's 1-13 record over two years. During this five-game stretch, Shough ranked second in completion percentage, fourth in passer rating, and sixth in passing yards. He also added a dynamic rushing element, accumulating 135 yards and three touchdowns on the ground.

The Saints' promising outlook is further bolstered by their roster and schedule. With running back Travis Etienne now complementing Shough in the backfield and a defense that ranked among the top 10 in yards allowed last season, New Orleans appears well-equipped. Moreover, Cohen identifies their 2026 schedule as the second-weakest in the league, providing a clearer path to success.

Green Bay Packers: A Steep Decline Predicted for 2026

Conversely, Cohen predicts a challenging year for the Green Bay Packers, fading their win total of 10.5. He forecasts a significant drop, with the Packers finishing the 2026 season with an 8-9 record, placing them last in the highly competitive NFC North. Last season, every team in the division finished above .500, highlighting the intense competition.

Green Bay faces one of the league's toughest roads, with only two teams having a harder strength of schedule for 2026. Their struggles began late last season, marked by five consecutive losses, including a dramatic collapse where they blew a 21-3 lead to Chicago in the Wild Card Round. This momentum shift suggests a difficult start to the new campaign.

The Packers' roster also faces considerable challenges. Star linebacker Micah Parsons is not expected back from a knee injury until Week 6 at the earliest, and tight end Tucker Kraft anticipates a snap count until midseason. Compounding these issues, Green Bay lost both its leading receiver, Romeo Doubs, and leading tackler, Quay Walker, in free agency, alongside Josh Jacobs' ongoing legal situation. Cohen attributes this downturn to “attrition” catching up with the team.

Unlocking Expert 2026 NFL Win Total and Super Bowl LXI Picks

For fans and bettors looking to gain an edge, Eric Cohen's comprehensive 2026 NFL season picks, projections, and best bets are exclusively available at SportsLine. His analysis covers all 285 games, providing invaluable insights for every team's final regular season record.

Cohen's predictions include not only his over/under best bets for team win totals but also his highly anticipated Super Bowl LXI futures. Among these futures is a potential championship outcome that could deliver an impressive payout of approximately 60-1, along with several plus-money win total bets that offer significant value. Following Cohen's expert guidance could lead to substantial returns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Eric Cohen and why are his 2026 NFL predictions noteworthy?

Eric Cohen is a SportsLine NFL expert and host of the weekly Early Edge NFL Props Show. His predictions are noteworthy due to his proven track record, including hitting three of four win totals best bets in 2024 and going 180-91-1 (66%) on straight-up picks in the 2025 regular season.

What are Eric Cohen's key 2026 NFL win total predictions?

Cohen is bullish on the New Orleans Saints, predicting them to win 9 games and exceed their 7.5 projected total. Conversely, he is fading the Green Bay Packers, forecasting them to finish 8-9 and below their 10.5 projected total, placing last in the NFC North.

Where can I find Eric Cohen's complete 2026 NFL game-by-game picks and Super Bowl LXI futures?

Eric Cohen's full 2026 NFL game-by-game predictions, season best bets, and Super Bowl LXI futures, including a potential 60-1 payout, are exclusively available to subscribers at SportsLine.

What was Eric Cohen's track record for NFL betting picks in previous seasons?

In 2024, Eric Cohen successfully predicted three of four win total best bets and two of four division winner best bets. He also went 180-91-1 (66%) on his NFL straight-up picks during the 2025 regular season.