We're in that magic time of year before an NFL regular season game has been played. Everyone is in good shape, ready to play physically, looking to make an impact, and fired up about their chances in the division and beyond.
In other words, everything is rainbows, glitter and lollipops among fans. So now it's time for a dose of reality: Not every team is going to do well. In fact, some downright bad juju could be looming for some teams, according to CBS Sports . The media outlet made some outlandish predictions for every NFL team in a "could happen/might happen" bit of crystal ball gazing.
Some individuals and teams are predicted for greatness: Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson is touted to hit 1,000 yards rushing and 1,000 yards receiving. The Chicago Bears are seen as becoming the first NFL team with a 4K passer, 1K rusher and trio of 1K receivers. Minnesota Vikings QB Kyler Murray may become the NFL MVP, CBS claims.
But the New York Jets, of course, are the NFL kings of bad news. Remember how exciting it was when Aaron Rodgers ran out on the field for his first home game as a Jet? The electric atmosphere lasted four snaps before his season ended with a torn Achilles. Older fans will remember the same thing happening to QB Vinny Testaverde in a season that the Jets loaded up in anticipation of a deep playoffs run.
There's also Bill Belichick resigning as HC of the NYJ; the Mud Bowl; the Butt Fumble; Doug Brien missing two game-winners in the playoffs; etc., etc.
So that's why Jets fans will have to hug themselves and keep repeating that "it's just a story, just a story" when they read what CBS has to say about Gang Green.
The outlet predicts that Garrett Wilson, one of the best receivers in Jets history, will wind up being traded to the Baltimore Ravens.
The prediction starts out okay (by Jets standards). It opines that the Jets won't be the league's worst team, thanks to the Miami Dolphins train wreck. But in the next breath, CBS admits, "but they won't be much better."
That will lead the Jets to continue the roster purge that saw cornerback Sauce Gardner and defensive lineman Quinnen Williams exit in trades last year for high draft choices.
CBS claims the franchise will continue its roster purge at the trade deadline. "This year, it'll be Garrett Wilson for a first-round pick." That means the Jets will have four first-round selections for the 2027 draft. That's the moment the team hopes to find a franchise quarterback.
Because it's the Jets, pessimistic fans will believe Arch Manning will imitate Uncle Eli and demand a trade before the draft.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Sep 2, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
