Falcons, Browns Land NFL's Easiest 2026 Schedules at .465 and .429

8 articles · Updated · NFL.com · May 15

Five teams stood out when the 2026 NFL schedule dropped: Atlanta, Cleveland, Detroit, Baltimore and Denver drew the most favorable 17-game slates on paper.
Atlanta led the group with a .465 strength of schedule, while Cleveland ranked easiest at .429; the Falcons were also one of four teams in the top 10 for both home and road ease.
Cleveland's path features the easiest road slate at .399 and a four-game home stretch after three straight road games, though trips to the Giants, Ravens and Bengals toughen December.
Detroit and Baltimore also got manageable setups—Detroit opens with only one opponent that won a 2025 playoff game in its first five weeks, while Baltimore avoids any road stretch longer than two games.
Denver's .512 schedule was the toughest among the five, but a balanced layout and key home dates against the Jaguars, Rams, Seahawks and Bills could help the reigning AFC West champions stay in contention.

How might the Browns' travel advantage and lack of international games shape their performance compared to AFC North rivals with tougher itineraries?

With the NFL's easiest schedule and a heated quarterback battle, will the Browns' 2026 season be a breakout year or a missed opportunity?