In the realm of NFL speculation, the task of constructing an All-Kempski Team for 2026 is a delightful challenge. As an expert commentator, I embark on this endeavor, offering my insights and opinions with a dash of personal flair. Let's dive into the heart of the matter and assemble a starting 22, one player from each team, that would make any fan's imagination run wild.
Offensive Lineup:
Quarterback: Josh Allen, Bills - The Bills' roster may not be stellar, but Allen's brilliance shines through. He's the NFL's best quarterback, a fact that can't be overlooked. His ability to carry the team on his shoulders is nothing short of remarkable.
Running Back: Bijan Robinson, Falcons - Between Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs, the choice was clear. The Falcons' lack of other strong players makes Robinson the standout choice.
Wide Receivers: Ja'Marr Chase, Bengals; Justin Jefferson, Vikings; Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Seahawks - Chase's status as the best receiver in the NFL remains unchallenged. Jefferson, despite a down year, is still a top-five talent. Smith-Njigba's breakout season in Seattle cements his place here.
Tight End: Brock Bowers, Raiders - Bowers' talent is undeniable, and his presence on an awful team makes him an easy pick.
Left Tackle: Tristan Wirfs, Buccaneers - Wirfs is the best LT in the NFL, a fact that doesn't need much explanation.
Left Guard: Tyler Smith, Cowboys - Smith's nasty demeanor and versatility make him a standout choice, despite his penalties in a weak conference.
Center: Aaron Brewer, Dolphins - A hipster OL pick, Brewer's presence adds a unique touch to the lineup.
Right Guard: Quenton Nelson, Colts - Nelson's nastiness at guard is unmatched, making him a key component.
Right Tackle: Penei Sewell, Lions - Sewell's talent gets the nod over Lane Johnson, a decision that sparks debate among fans.
Defensive Lineup:
Edge Rusher: Myles Garrett, Rams - Garrett's dominance is undeniable, making him the top choice at EDGE.
Interior Defensive Linemen: Jeffery Simmons, Titans; Chris Jones, Chiefs - Simmons' monster season in 2025, despite the Titans' struggles, cements his place. Jones, though slowing, remains a force.
Edge Rusher: Will Anderson, Texans - Anderson's talent and potential make him a mega-star in the making.
Linebacker Corps:
Off-Ball Linebacker: Fred Warner, 49ers - Warner's season-ending injury in 2025 doesn't diminish his status as the best off-ball linebacker.
Inside Linebacker: Devin Lloyd, Panthers - Lloyd's breakout season with 5 INTs makes him a standout choice.
Secondary:
Cornerbacks: Patrick Surtain, Broncos; Quinyon Mitchell, Eagles; Derwin James, Chargers - Surtain's Defensive Player of the Year honors make him a top choice. Mitchell's ESPN ranking sparks debate, while James' versatility adds depth.
Safeties: Kyle Hamilton, Ravens; Xavier McKinney, Packers - Hamilton's blend of size and range is unmatched, while McKinney's playmaking abilities are noteworthy.
Special Teams:
Kicker: Cam Little, Jaguars - Little's leg and accuracy make him a standout choice.
Punter: Jordan Stout, Giants - Stout's presence on the Giants' roster is a welcome surprise.
Long Snapper: Zach Wood, Saints - Wood's reliability is a key component of any special teams unit.
The Unworthy:
Six teams, including the Commanders, Bears, Cardinals, Jets, Browns, and Steelers, fail to secure a player in this All-Kempski Team. A sad fate for some, but a testament to the depth of talent in the NFL.
Jalen Carter's Dilemma:
Jalen Carter's talent is undeniable, but his numbers don't match the hype. The next Aaron Donald, some say, but with fewer sacks. In my opinion, he doesn't deserve the same pay as Jeffery Simmons, who reset the iDL market. Simmons' monster season in 2025, despite the Titans' struggles, cements his place as the better choice.
Saquon Barkley's Decline:
Saquon Barkley's decline in 2025 is a topic of debate. While GPS data is elusive, the blocking in front of him wasn't as strong, and his ability to break off long runs diminished. Despite this, I still believe he was explosive, albeit not at the same level as 2024.
Wide Receiver Predictions:
DeVonta Smith, Makai Lemon, Dontayvion Wicks, and Marquise Brown are locks to make the team. Johnny Wilson and Darius Cooper are in the running for the 'dirty work' guy. Elijah Moore has a chance to stand out in camp, while Britain Covey, the Eagles' best returner, is a practice squad candidate.
Offensive Order:
DeVonta Smith will see a healthy uptick in targets, solidifying his status as the No. 1 receiver. Goedert will likely be second, with Jalen Hurts' trust in him ensuring an uptick in targets. Lemon will start and produce immediately, while Wicks and Brown vie for the third spot, with Wicks' blocking skills giving him an edge.
Cole Payton's Potential:
Cole Payton's potential to replace Jalen Hurts as the Eagles' starting QB is an intriguing thought. While I don't want to hear complaints about my offseason content, the idea of a young, talented QB taking over is a fascinating one.
Preseason Starters:
Given the new offense, it's unlikely that offensive starters will play in the preseason. Two joint practices with the Patriots in August will be more valuable, and preserving surprise for Week 1 is a priority.
Dorney Park's Best:
In a roller coaster ranking at Dorney Park, Talon takes the top spot, followed by Steel Force, Possessed, Hydra, Thunderhawk, Iron Menace, and Woodstock Express. A personal note on the coasters, with Talon being the favorite and Iron Menace a headbanger to avoid.
As the sun sets on this journey, the All-Kempski Team for 2026 stands as a testament to the talent and excitement of the NFL. From the offensive line to the defensive backfield, each player brings a unique flair to the lineup. While the unworthy teams linger in the shadows, the excitement for the upcoming season burns bright. The NFL never fails to deliver, and this team is a glimpse into the future, a future filled with promise and potential.
