With the NFL schedule about to be released, attention is turning to the 2026 campaign and which players might dominate statistically.
Here are some predictions for which players will lead the league in key statistical categories in 2026.
Prescott tipped for passing yards crown
Dak Prescott of the Dallas Cowboys has had a solid career, making it to four Pro Bowls and throwing for nearly 36,000 career yards. His best season was in 2019 with 4,902 yards, and last season he ranked third in the league with 4,552 yards.
Despite these achievements, the 32-year-old Prescott has never led the NFL in passing yards. That could change this season.
It is thought that Prescott has the necessary tools to top the passing charts. He has CeeDee Lamb as a top-tier receiver, George Pickens as a strong No. 2 wideout, and Jake Ferguson as a reliable tight end. Also, the Cowboys’ defence might force them into more high-scoring games.
In 2025, Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams led the league with 4,707 passing yards.
Burrow to bounce back with touchdown dominance
Joe Burrow’s 2025 season was hampered by a toe injury, limiting him to just eight games and a career-low 1,809 passing yards. However, he’s reportedly back in shape and ready for the upcoming season, according to Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor.
Burrow has shown his potential for high numbers when healthy. He has Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins.
In 2024, Burrow led the NFL in pass attempts, completions, passing yards and passing touchdowns with 43. When healthy, he is as prolific as any signal-caller in the league.
In 2025, Matthew Stafford led the league with 46 touchdowns.
Cook tipped to repeat rushing title
James Cook of the Buffalo Bills is being tipped to repeat as rushing champion in 2026. The running back position is very competitive in the NFL.
In 2025, James Cook led the league with 1,621 yards.
It has been a while since we saw a repeat rushing champion—in 2019 and 2020, Derrick Henry paced the league in that category. But that’s just one of the things working against James Cook’s chances of leading the NFL on the ground again in 2026.
It’s something of a golden age at running back in the NFL.
The NFL is full of hope and optimism as teams look ahead to the 2026 season.