The NFC West once again shapes up as one of the most intriguing and unpredictable divisions in the NFL for the 2025-26 season. After years of fluctuating dominance, betting markets and pundits project a close race, with legitimate arguments for all four teams either to contend or surprise.
Here’s what NFL betting sites are projecting for each NFC West franchise.
Los Angeles Rams
The Rams enter the season as both the defending division champions and a popular pick for a repeat atop the NFC West, with many projections and betting markets rating them just behind the 49ers as favorites at +195 to win the division. Los Angeles boasts arguably the best roster in the division, highlighted by the steady veteran leadership of quarterback Matthew Stafford.
The Rams’ offense, orchestrated by Sean McVay, is expected to remain explosive, while the defense should be more consistent. Bettors should be mindful of both the Rams’ high ceiling, with some projecting up to 12 wins, and the increasing expectations. We’re not betting on the Rams to win the division, but a wild card spot is probable.
San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers are slight betting favorites (+165) to win the NFC West, but there is a broad range of opinions about their outlook. Last season was marred by injuries and inconsistency, with quarterback Brock Purdy struggling late in the year. However, this is still a well-coached team loaded with talent, particularly if they can keep stars like Christian McCaffrey healthy. The 49ers’ defense is feared, and their lowest-rated strength of schedule should help them quickly return to form after missing the playoffs last year.
Projections for San Francisco vary from 8-9 to as high as 11-6, reflecting both optimism about a rebound and skepticism about whether this is the same juggernaut that reached recent NFC title games. We like the 49ers to win the West.
Arizona Cardinals
Perhaps no team presents more betting intrigue than the Arizona Cardinals. Coming off an up-and-down campaign, the Cardinals open at +525 to win the division, marking them as intriguing longshots with significant upside. Arizona bolstered its defense through both the draft and key free-agent signings, while two-time Pro Bowl QB Kyler Murray returns to helm a dynamic offense that ranked seventh in yards per play last year.
The Cardinals’ schedule favors a fast start, with winnable games early in the season. If Murray stays healthy and their defense gels, Arizona could easily outperform market expectations and regain playoff status, making them a popular sleeper pick among sharp bettors. Some models forecast the Cardinals winning 10 games, with real breakout potential if close games start breaking their way.
Seattle Seahawks
Seattle is generally considered the biggest question mark in the division and offers the longest odds (+600) to win the West. Last year, the Seahawks finished 10-7 but missed the postseason, prompting a shake-up at quarterback, moving away from Geno Smith in favor of Sam Darnold. The Seahawks’ defense has improved, but roster turnover has left some pundits doubting their overall ceiling, resulting in conservative win projections as low as 5-12.
Bettors eyeing the Seahawks should proceed with caution. While there’s always the potential for surprise under new leadership, Seattle will need to overcome both a brutal schedule and significant growing pains on offense to contend in this loaded division.
Bovada Sportsbook – 49ers Webzone
