Cowherd predicts Bears’ Williams to claim MVP in 2026 NFL outlook
Colin Cowherd’s latest analysis on “The Herd” suggests Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams will end a half-century drought, while Jalen Hurts and Justin Herbert are forecasted to thrive despite roster changes.
FOX Sports commentator Colin Cowherd has released a series of five bold predictions for the 2026 NFL season, headlined by a projection that Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams will secure the Most Valuable Player award. The forecast marks a significant shift for the Bears, who have not had an MVP winner in nearly 50 years.
Cowherd’s analysis suggests that Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts will surpass his previous performance levels despite the departure of wide receiver A.J. Brown. Citing statistical efficiency, Cowherd noted that Hurts completed 71 per cent of his throws with 18 touchdowns and only three interceptions in games where he did not target Brown as a focal point. He compared the dynamic to Dez Bryant and Dak Prescott, asserting that Hurts will flourish by spreading the ball among other receivers.
In the AFC West, the commentator forecasted that Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert will lead his team to at least two playoff victories and potentially the AFC Championship. Cowherd attributed this potential success to improved offensive line health and coaching continuity, noting that Herbert has been hit, sacked, or rushed more than any quarterback since entering the league in 2020. He described the upcoming offensive line as Herbert’s best yet.
Conversely, Cowherd predicted the Green Bay Packers will finish fourth in the NFC North, citing defensive vulnerabilities. He pointed to the team’s 0-5 record and allowance of 29 points per game in the final five games of the previous season when edge rusher Micah Parsons was injured. With Parsons presumed unavailable until October, Cowherd argued the division has become significantly more competitive, with all four teams holding winning records last year.
The commentary also highlighted the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions as strong contenders within the division. Cowherd suggested Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray will be a “hit” and described the Detroit Lions as possessing the best entire roster in the NFC North, further complicating the standings for Green Bay.
These projections are speculative opinions presented on “The Herd” and do not constitute confirmed outcomes or verified data regarding player performance or team standings.
