As the NFL reaches Week 4 of the 2026 season, there are five teams still winless with 0-3 starts, matching the highest number of such squads since 2021. Unexpectedly, the Los Angeles Chargers and Houston Texans are struggling early, despite preseason Super Bowl expectations for Houston. Historically, making the playoffs after beginning 0-3 is rare, achieved by only seven teams ever, including last year's Texans. This weekend puts the spotlight on which of these struggling teams might finally break their losing streak.

Among the 0-3 teams, many have had close games so far. The Texans stand out for their unexpectedly poor defense, allowing 25 points and ranking near the bottom in passing yards allowed per game, while their offense performs well enough to be in the NFL’s top half. Dallas will be their opponent this week, a team with a weak rushing attack and possible fatigue from international travel. Meanwhile, the Chargers recently lost despite forcing five turnovers against the Bills, and face a daunting schedule ahead including a matchup with Super Bowl champion Seattle.

In contrast to the winless teams, the Las Vegas Raiders and Minnesota Vikings have surprisingly sprinted to 3-0 records. The Raiders lead the league with a plus-5 turnover margin, excelling in interceptions and fumble recoveries, while their offense, directed by Kirk Cousins, averages over 29 points. The Vikings rely on a stout defense that has allowed just 13.7 points per game and leads the NFL in sacks, even overcoming the absence of quarterback Kyler Murray for much of the early season. October presents bigger tests for both teams with challenging opponents on the docket.

Among key quarterbacks, early season struggles persist, with Justin Herbert, Jordan Love, and Drake Maye each underperforming versus expectations. Herbert’s completion rate and touchdown-to-interception ratio are career lows, Love’s Packers are 1-2 with a weak rushing game, and Maye’s accuracy issues contribute to New England’s 1-2 record. All three have opportunities to change narratives as the season progresses, but their performances thus far have done little to dispel doubts about their consistency and playmaking abilities.