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3 fanbases who should temper expectations in the 2026 NFL Draft
TL;DR
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, some fanbases should lower their expectations due to historical trends of draft failures. Certain teams consistently struggle to maximize their draft picks, leading to potential disappointments.
Key points
- NFL is preparing for the 2026 Draft
- Teams are finalizing their draft boards
- Some franchises consistently fail to maximize draft picks
- Fans should temper expectations for certain teams
- Draft busts can result from poor management and planning
The NFL is moving full steam ahead toward the 2026 NFL Draft. Teams have begun offseason workouts and are finalizing their draft boards in preparation for Thursday night.
One of the sport’s greatest spectacles consistently delivers unforgettable moments and stories. Prospects who have worked their entire lives to hear their names called will finally see that work rewarded.
However, some teams repeatedly set their picks up for failure. As a result, those inspiring stories quickly turn into “draft bust” labels. For several franchises, fans should temper expectations for a variety of reasons.
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Here are three teams whose expectations should be reeled in:
New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen
New York Giants
With two top-10 picks, the Giants have a prime opportunity to reshape their roster. There’s no way they can mess this up—right?
General manager Joe Schoen still runs the front office. He chose to let Saquon Barkley walk in 2024 and failed to maximize two top-10 picks in 2022.
The good news: new head coach John Harbaugh should provide a stronger voice in the room. But will that be enough to prevent another Schoen misstep?
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Giants fans should feel excited about this opportunity. Still, many can’t help but wonder whether Schoen’s regime will once again get in its own way.
Cleveland Browns
The Browns may have landed a strong 2025 draft class, but their overall track record remains shaky. While they struck gold in rounds two through four last year, consistency has been a problem.
Now, general manager Andrew Berry faces pressure to replicate that success. His earlier draft classes underwhelmed before last season’s breakthrough.
Ownership’s push for the Deshaun Watson trade—one in which Berry played a significant role—also continues to loom over the franchise.
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The Browns appear to have momentum, but can they sustain it? Fans will once again hold their breath in 2026. The team owns two first-round picks, but that only matters if they can finally break from their history and capitalize on both.
Brandon Beane
Buffalo Bills
The only contender on this list, the Bills operate under general manager Brandon Beane. Simply put, his track record as a talent evaluator raises concerns.
Some fans argued the team should have fired Beane instead of head coach Sean McDermott, especially amid reports that McDermott privately criticized the roster construction.
Despite that, Beane remains in charge and appears to face little pressure. While he has made some solid selections, quarterback Josh Allen stands as the defining pick that continues to justify his tenure.
Bills fans have reason for optimism. As long as Allen is under center, the team will remain competitive. Still, a lingering question persists: how might the front office undermine a championship-caliber roster?
Q&A
Which NFL teams should fans temper expectations for in the 2026 Draft?
Three specific teams are highlighted as having a history of draft failures, suggesting fans should manage their expectations for the upcoming draft.
Why do some NFL teams struggle with their draft picks?
Teams may struggle due to poor scouting, mismanagement of player development, or a lack of strategic planning, leading to frequent draft busts.
What factors contribute to a team becoming a 'draft bust'?
Factors include unrealistic expectations, inadequate preparation, and failure to address team needs effectively during the draft process.
