1. Vegas Knight Hawks (IFL)
2. Albany Firebirds (AF1)
3. Green Bay Blizzard (IFL)
4. Nashville Kats (AF1)
5. Arizona Rattlers (IFL)
6. Minnesota Monsters (AF1)
7. Fishers Freight (IFL)
8. Orlando Pirates (IFL)
9. Quad City Steamwheelers (IFL)
10. Tulsa Oilers (IFL)
"Vegas has to be considered the favorite right now," said former Minnesota Monsters coach Tony O'Neil, who led his team to consecutive TAL championships in 2024 and '25. "They were the most complete team for most of last season under Head Coach Mike Davis, and that consistency matters. Albany is right there as well—they’re returning a large portion of their championship roster, and continuity with their head coach gives them a strong foundation.
"After a first-round playoff exit last season, the Rattlers have something to prove if they want to be mentioned among the elite. The Minnesota Monsters are a respected organization with championship history, but the reality is the roster has changed, the leadership has changed, and while they bring experience at a high level, this will be a prove-it season for them. I believe they can handle that challenge, and being put in that position may actually help them grow.
"Nashville made strong additions after playing in the championship game, and those moves could pay off. As for the rest of the league, it’s hard to know exactly where everyone stands until we see them on the field. Week One of the 2026 season will tell us a lot."