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Countdown to Kickoff: What to Expect from Every NFL Team in 2025

By Josie LeCompte


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With the National Football League (NFL)’s season fast approaching, there is a lot to say about where each of the 32 teams will end by the end of the season. Below is an analysis of each of the teams and where I think each of them will end up by the time the Super Bowl rolls around on February 8, 2026. 

The Arizona Cardinals enter the 2025 season with modest expectations, following an 8-9 finish in 2024, which saw them miss the playoffs by the end of the year. There isn’t much buzz around the team this offseason, as they did not make any major acquisitions and will rely heavily on a seasoned, veteran roster. With no clear standout additions, the Cardinals’ success will hinge on steady performances from their existing core. Fortunately, Arizona benefits from one of the easiest schedules in the league, which could be the boost they need to push back into playoff contention. Key matchups against divisional rivals and other winnable games will be crucial. Despite the favorable slate, the team is projected to finish between 7-10 and 9-8, likely just short of a postseason berth. However, with the NFC West being competitive but up for grabs, the Cardinals still have a shot at winning the division and earning an automatic playoff spot if they can capitalize on their schedule and avoid late-season slumps.

The Atlanta Falcons enter the 2025 season aiming to build on their 8-9 finish last year, with hopes of returning to the playoffs in one of the league’s easier conferences. Rookie Michael Penix Jr. is expected to take over as the starting quarterback after backing up Kirk Cousins through Week 10 of his rookie season. The Falcons face a challenging, front-loaded schedule that could lead to early struggles, especially with a young QB adjusting to the NFL. This tough start may see them dropping several games, potentially starting as poorly as 1-4. However, the second half of their season looks more manageable, offering opportunities to rebound and string together wins. If Penix develops quickly and the offense finds its rhythm, the Falcons should finish comfortably around 9-8. 

The Baltimore Ravens enter the 2025 season as one of the NFL’s standout teams, building on several strong seasons that have seen them consistently make deep playoff runs. With a roster full of star players, the question remains whether this is the year they finally break through and win it all. The Ravens face a daunting start, with three of their first four games against top-tier opponents, providing early tests that could set the tone for their season. Learning from last year’s shortcomings, Baltimore looks poised to not only return to the playoffs but to advance further than the second round. Even if they struggle against elite teams like the Bills, Lions, or Chiefs early on, the Ravens’ schedule offers a strong chance to bounce back and finish with an impressive 14-3 record. If they stay healthy and capitalize on their talent, Baltimore will be a serious contender in the AFC once again.

The Buffalo Bills have been a powerhouse since 2019, consistently making the playoffs but falling short of the Super Bowl, never advancing past the AFC Championship game. The 2025 season looks promising for the Bills, with a relatively smooth regular-season schedule that sets them up for another deep run. Their Week 1 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens will be an early test of their championship potential, while games against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 9 and the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 17 will provide further clues about their strength. If Josh Allen and the team stay healthy, Buffalo is expected to finish at worst 13-4, building momentum toward finally breaking through to win it all. This season could be the turning point where the Bills move past their previous playoff hurdles and capture their first Super Bowl title.

The Carolina Panthers enter the 2025 season hoping to avoid a repeat of their disastrous 1-7 starts over the past two years. Although they had a decent showing in the 2025 draft, the improvements may not be enough to lift them out of their ongoing slump. Fortunately, the Panthers have one of the easiest schedules in the league, which should help them avoid another terrible start. They kick off the season facing several teams with similar low win totals, though many of these games are on the road, which could be a potential challenge. While the Panthers are expected to start stronger than in recent years, the overall outlook remains bleak, with little chance for a winning record. Realistically, they are projected to finish around 5-12, matching last year’s struggles but hopefully showing signs of incremental progress.

The Chicago Bears are hoping for a turnaround in 2025 after finishing 5-12 last season. With Caleb Williams entering his second year, expectations are growing that he can make a significant leap and lead the offense more effectively. However, the Bears face an uphill battle with the second-toughest strength of schedule in the league. Divisional matchups in the stacked NFC North won’t offer much relief, and Chicago could struggle to find wins in those six games. While a few non-conference matchups may provide growth opportunities, the overall outlook remains challenging. If the offense develops quickly and the defense holds steady, they could improve slightly from last year, but a 5-12 or 6-11 finish appears most realistic. The focus for 2025 will be on long-term development rather than immediate postseason contention.

After a disappointing 2024 campaign that ended at 9-8 and outside the playoff picture, the Cincinnati Bengals are looking for a rebound in 2025. With Joe Burrow fully healthy and a more balanced schedule ahead, the Bengals are well-positioned to climb back into contention. Their slow 4-8 start last season ultimately doomed their playoff hopes, but signs of improvement in the second half offer reason for optimism. Defensive struggles were a key weakness in 2024, but two early-round picks in the 2025 draft have added fresh talent that could help turn things around on that side of the ball. If the Bengals avoid another sluggish start, they have the offensive firepower to compete for an AFC Wild Card berth. A 10-7 or even 11-6 finish seems within reach if everything clicks, making Cincinnati a team to watch this season.

The Cleveland Browns enter the 2025 season still searching for stability at the quarterback position, a problem that continues to hold back a roster with potential. They are still in a four-way battle for the starting quarterback spot, and competing in the stacked AFC North doesn’t make things easier. Facing several top-tier opponents before their Week 9 bye, the Browns could realistically find themselves at 1-7 if their quarterback issues linger. The second half of the season offers a bit more breathing room, giving Cleveland a chance to settle in and pick up a few more wins. While an improvement over last year’s 3-14 record seems likely, expectations remain tempered. A 6-11 finish appears the most realistic outcome for a team still rebuilding in key areas.

After missing the playoffs for the first time in four years, the Dallas Cowboys are eyeing a bounce-back season, but a brutal 2025 schedule won’t make it easy. With Dak Prescott returning from a season-ending leg injury, the early part of the season offers a valuable window for the team to get back into rhythm. Unlike many teams, the Cowboys face their more favorable matchups like the Broncos, Cardinals, and Chargers in the first half, which could allow them to build early momentum. However, the true test comes after their Week 10 bye, when the schedule ramps up with tougher opponents. Staying healthy will be crucial if Dallas wants to turn things around. They should finish at 9-8, an improvement over last season but likely just shy of a postseason berth.

The Denver Broncos enter the 2025 season looking to build on last year’s unexpected playoff run. With Bo Nix returning as the starting quarterback after a strong rookie campaign and the defense continuing to perform at a high level, the team has a solid core. Their 2025 schedule includes a balance of winnable games and a few tougher matchups, which could help them stay competitive in the AFC. However, concerns remain about offensive consistency, especially if Nix experiences a typical second-year learning curve. While the defense is expected to keep games close, the offense will need to improve in red zone efficiency and third-down conversions to maintain momentum. The Broncos have a realistic chance to finish around 11-6 to 12-5, putting them in contention for either the AFC West title or a Wild Card berth. Whether they can make it past the Divisional Round will depend largely on their offensive development.

The Detroit Lions enter the 2025 season aiming to build on their impressive 11-6 finish in 2024, which earned them the NFC North title and a first-round playoff spot. Despite the strong regular season, they faced an early playoff exit and will look to advance further this year. The Lions face a challenging schedule, including tough divisional matchups in the NFC North, where competition remains fierce with multiple playoff-caliber teams. Key games include battles against division rivals like the Packers, Vikings, and Bears, as well as challenging contests against NFC contenders. With a solid roster and opportunities to improve, the Lions are projected to finish between 11-6 and 12-5. If they maintain consistency and strengthen their execution, Detroit has a strong chance to compete deep into the postseason, potentially reaching the NFC Conference Championship again.

After just squeezing into the NFC playoffs last season, they are hoping to move even further than the Green Bay Packers enter the 2025 season aiming to build on their narrow playoff berth last year. Like many teams in the NFC North, they face a challenging schedule both within their division and outside, making postseason qualification difficult. Last season, injuries to quarterback Jordan Love affected the team’s consistency, and his health will be key to their success this year. Their tough regular-season slate includes strong divisional rivals and competitive non-conference matchups, which will test the team’s depth and resilience. If Love remains healthy and the Packers maintain a similar level of performance as last season, finishing around 10-7 or 11-6, they should be able to secure a Wild Card spot. With playoff experience gained from last year, Green Bay has a solid foundation to potentially advance further in the postseason.

The Houston Texans enter the 2025 season looking to continue their streak of winning the AFC South for the third consecutive year. They have shown the ability to dominate within their division but often face challenges when matched against stronger opponents outside the AFC South. Their relatively weak division schedule provides an advantage during the regular season, but their performance in tougher playoff matchups has historically been limited. This offseason brought few major changes, suggesting a similar trajectory for the team. The Texans are expected to finish around 9-8, likely securing the AFC South title again. However, their postseason run may end in the divisional round unless they can improve against higher-caliber teams. Overall, Houston’s focus will be on maintaining divisional dominance while aiming to translate that success deeper into the playoffs.

The Colts exceeded expectations last season, finishing 9-8 and just barely missing the playoffs in a tight AFC race. With Anthony Richardson expected to be healthy and ready for a full season under center, there’s a lot of excitement in Indianapolis. Jonathan Taylor remains one of the most dangerous running backs in the league, and the defense, while not elite, is solid enough to keep them in games. The AFC South is competitive but winnable, especially if the Jaguars or Texans regress. The key to their season will be Richardson’s growth and ability to stay healthy. If he does, this team could push for a wild-card spot. I think they’ll improve slightly and finish around 10-7, possibly sneaking into the playoffs as a lower seed but likely not making a deep postseason run.

The Jacksonville Jaguars enter the 2025 season looking to build on a challenging 2024 campaign. With rookie standout Travis Hunter expected to start on offense and gradually take on a dual role as he gains experience, the Jaguars hope to jumpstart their rebuild. While significant improvement may be limited this season, they have opportunities to compete within their division, including chances to sweep the Titans and potentially split games with the Colts and Texans. Key matchups against the Raiders in Week 9 and the Jets in Week 15 could help boost their win total. Despite a tough schedule, the Jaguars aim to finish around 5-12, matching or slightly improving on last year’s record as they develop their young talent and work toward future competitiveness.

After an outstanding 15-2 regular season in 2024, the Chiefs once again dominated the AFC West and secured the top seed in the conference. The defense continued to perform at an elite level, helping the team reach the Super Bowl, where they ultimately fell short against the Eagles. Heading into 2025, the Chiefs are focused on building on that success and returning to championship glory. With a strong core returning and a manageable division schedule, they’re favored to win the AFC West yet again. I expect the Chiefs to finish around 13-4 or 14-3 and make a deep playoff run, but whether they can overcome stiff competition in the postseason and bring home another Lombardi Trophy remains to be seen.

After finishing 4-13 last season, the Raiders are entering 2025 with a new head coach, quarterback questions, and something to prove. Their schedule ranks middle-of-the-pack in difficulty, but the path to a winning season won’t be easy. The first half offers opportunities to build momentum with winnable matchups against teams like the Patriots, Colts, and Bears. However, things get much tougher after their Week 8 bye, with road games against the Eagles, Texans, and division rivals. If the offense, led by key additions like tight end Brock Bowers, finds rhythm early and Maxx Crosby continues to lead a strong defensive front, Las Vegas could push for respectability. Their ceiling is around 7-10 if everything clicks, but a 5-12 finish is more realistic given the late-season gauntlet and tough AFC West opponents. Improvement from last season is expected, but a playoff berth remains a long shot.

The Los Angeles Chargers are looking to build on last season’s 11-6 campaign, but with the 11th toughest schedule in the league, 2025 won’t be easy. Jim Harbaugh brings energy and discipline, but the road starts tough with a Week 1 game against the Chiefs in Brazil. The Chargers will need Justin Herbert to stay healthy and take control early, as midseason matchups against the Titans, Jaguars and Steelers won’t leave much margin for error. After their Week 12 bye, the schedule turns even more brutal with road games at Dallas and Kansas City and tough home contests against the Eagles. Division games could go either way, and with a few evenly matched opponents scattered throughout, the Chargers’ season may come down to execution in close games. Their ceiling looks like 10-7, but a 9-8 finish is more likely in a loaded AFC playoff race.

The Rams are coming off a solid 10-7 season that saw them win the NFC West, but repeating that success won’t come easily. While their 2025 schedule ranks middle of the pack in difficulty, several tough matchups could derail their momentum if they’re not careful. The first few games against the Texans, Titans and Colts offer a chance to start strong and build confidence before a brutal stretch that includes the 49ers, Ravens and Jaguars. A Week 8 bye comes at the right time, hopefully allowing Matthew Stafford and the rest of the offense to reset. The second half of the season is packed with high-stakes divisional battles and tricky road games. Their final five games could make or break their playoff chances. If the offense clicks and the defense holds up, they could finish 11-6, but a 9-8 season feels more realistic, likely placing them just outside serious playoff contention.

The Miami Dolphins enter the 2025 season looking to bounce back from an underwhelming 8-9 finish and a missed playoff berth in 2024. With a relatively manageable schedule this year, tied for the 11th-easiest in the league, they’re positioned well for a turnaround. The first half of the season is particularly favorable, with matchups against the Colts, Patriots, Panthers and Chargers that could allow Miami to build early momentum. The second half of the schedule poses more challenges, with tough games against the Bengals, Steelers, and a divisional finale in Foxborough. If quarterback Tua Tagovailoa stays healthy and the offense continues to fire with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, Miami has a strong shot at improving. The defense, led by Jalen Ramsey, will need to hold up late in the season. Their ceiling is 11-6, floor is 9-8, and if they play to their strengths, they’re very much back in the playoff conversation.

The Minnesota Vikings enter the 2025 season with high expectations following a 14-3 finish in 2024, but their path to repeating that success is challenging. The Vikings head into 2025 with second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy ready to take the reins after missing most of his rookie season due to injury. Now fully healthy, expectations are high for the young QB to thrive under head coach Kevin O’Connell. Their schedule ranks among the toughest in the league, but they face a rare challenge in Weeks 4 and 5, playing back-to-back international games in Dublin and London against the Steelers and Browns. Their Week 6 bye comes at a good time, but things only get tougher from there, with matchups against the Eagles, Cowboys and a Christmas Day showdown with the Lions. If McCarthy adapts quickly and the defense remains strong, their likely range falls between 9-8 and 10-7, enough to stay in the playoff conversation even if they fall short of last season’s heights.

The New England Patriots enter the 2025 season looking to improve after a difficult 4-13 campaign in 2024 under new head coach Mike Vrabel. Second-year quarterback Drake Maye is expected to take the next step as the team’s leader, building on his rookie season while adapting to Vrabel’s system. The Patriots face a mixed schedule that starts with winnable games against the Raiders, Dolphins and Steelers, giving them a chance to build momentum early. Midseason, they face a tough stretch with road games at Buffalo, New Orleans and Tennessee, followed by a Week 14 bye. The season finishes with key divisional matchups against the Bills and Dolphins that will likely determine their playoff hopes. If Maye develops well and the defense improves, the Patriots could finish between 5-12 and 7-10, showing signs of growth even if they fall short of playoff contention this year.

The New Orleans Saints enter the 2025 season under new head coach Kellen Moore, aiming to rebound from a 5-12 finish in 2024. With veteran quarterback Derek Carr retiring, the team turns to second-year signal-caller Tyler Shough, who faces competition from Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener. The Saints’ schedule presents early challenges, including home games against the Arizona Cardinals and San Francisco 49ers in Weeks 1 and 2. A Week 11 bye provides a midseason opportunity to regroup. The second half of the season features divisional matchups against the Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, which will be crucial for playoff positioning. While the team is in a rebuilding phase, the infusion of new talent and leadership offers hope for improvement. Realistically, the Saints’ season outcome likely falls between 6-11 and 8-9, with potential for growth as the season progresses.

The New York Giants enter the 2025 season with renewed hope following a challenging 3-14 finish in 2024. Under head coach Brian Daboll, the team is transitioning to a new era with veteran quarterback Russell Wilson leading the offense, though rookie Jaxson Dart is expected to see significant playing time. The Giants’ schedule presents early challenges, including divisional matchups against the Washington Commanders and Dallas Cowboys in the first two weeks. A pivotal Week 3 game against the Kansas City Chiefs at home will test their resilience. The middle of the season features a demanding stretch with games against the Los Angeles Chargers, New Orleans Saints and Minnesota Vikings. The season concludes with critical divisional games against the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders, which could determine playoff aspirations. With a focus on developing young talent and adapting to a new system, the Giants aim for improvement, with a realistic expectation of finishing between 6-11 and 8-9.

The New York Jets enter the 2025 season under new head coach Aaron Glenn, aiming to end the NFL’s longest active playoff drought and return to postseason play for the first time since 2010. With Justin Fields now leading the offense, the team hopes to capitalize on his dual-threat capabilities. The Jets’ schedule presents early challenges, including home games against the Pittsburgh Steelers and Buffalo Bills in Weeks 1 and 2. Midseason features divisional matchups against the Miami Dolphins and New England Patriots, both at home, which could be pivotal for playoff positioning. The season concludes with a road game against the Buffalo Bills, potentially determining the Jets’ playoff fate. With a focus on developing young talent and adapting to Glenn’s defensive system, the Jets aim for improvement, with a realistic expectation of finishing between 7-10 and 9-8.

The Philadelphia Eagles enter the 2025 season as defending Super Bowl champions, but repeating that success will be a challenge. Quarterback Jalen Hurts returns healthy and motivated to lead an offense bolstered by star running back Saquon Barkley and a strong offensive line anchored by Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata. Under head coach Nick Sirianni and new offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo, the team looks to build on last year’s balanced attack. The Eagles face a tough schedule with early tests against the Dallas Cowboys and Kansas City Chiefs, and divisional matchups with the Giants and Washington will be crucial down the stretch. Their Week 8 bye comes at a good time, but they’ll need to stay sharp as they face a late-season run including the Giants, Cowboys and a Thanksgiving Day game against the Patriots. If Hurts stays healthy and the defense continues to dominate, the Eagles are poised to finish between 11-6 and 13-4 and remain strong Super Bowl contenders.

The Pittsburgh Steelers enter the 2025 season with a blend of veteran leadership and emerging talent, aiming to improve upon their 10-7 record from the previous year. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers, now 41, leads the offense after signing a one-year deal with the team. Despite concerns about his performance in training camp, Rodgers remains a pivotal figure in the Steelers’ plans. The offense also features the addition of wide receiver DK Metcalf, who has received high praise from teammates and coaches alike. The team’s schedule includes challenging matchups, such as a Week 4 international game against the Minnesota Vikings in Dublin and a late-season contest against the Baltimore Ravens. With a mix of experience and youth, Pittsburgh has a realistic shot at finishing 9-8 or 10-7, positioning itself as a playoff contender in a competitive division.

The San Francisco 49ers enter the 2025 season with a clear chance for redemption after stumbling to a 6-11 finish in 2024. Quarterback Brock Purdy remains at the helm, flanked by Christian McCaffrey and George Kittle, offering explosive upside if the team can stay healthy and cohesive. Their road back to contention is made easier by the easiest strength of schedule in the league. San Francisco opens with a demanding early division road slate at Seattle and New Orleans, followed by home games against the Cardinals and Jaguars before facing the Rams in Week 5 on Thursday Night Football. Their toughest stretch spans Weeks 5 through 10 before a long-awaited Week 14 bye arrives. After the bye, the 49ers close the year hosting winnable games vs. Tennessee, Chicago and Seattle. If their stars remain healthy, San Francisco is built to capitalize on their favorable schedule and should finish between 10‑7 and 12‑5, firmly back in playoff contention.

The Seattle Seahawks enter the 2025 season looking to bounce back from a 10-7 campaign that ended just short of a playoff berth. With Sam Darnold now under center and a revamped receiving corps featuring Cooper Kupp and Marquez Valdes-Scantling, head coach Mike Macdonald hopes to keep the offense competitive while leaning on a young, aggressive defense. The Seahawks’ 2025 schedule ranks middle of the pack in difficulty but features some tough early-season tests, including a Week 1 home opener against the 49ers and a road trip to Pittsburgh in Week 2. A Thursday Night game at Arizona in Week 4 and a Week 6 trip to Lambeau Field could also prove pivotal. The Seahawks’ Week 8 bye comes just ahead of a challenging second half, which includes matchups against the Chiefs, Rams and Cowboys. They close out the season with back-to-back road games in Carolina and San Francisco. If Darnold can find rhythm early and the defense takes a leap under Macdonald, the Seahawks could fall in the 9-8 to 10-7 range again, right on the bubble of playoff contention in a tough NFC.

The Buccaneers enter the 2025 season in a rebuilding phase after a stagnant stretch and missed the playoffs. With a younger core starting to emerge, Tampa Bay will break in a new quarterback under head coach Todd Bowles. Early matchups against the Falcons, Texans and Jets offer a chance to build momentum before a midseason test, including games against the Eagles, Seahawks, 49ers and Lions. A Week 9 bye provides a reset before a closing slate of divisional matchups at Miami and Carolina and a home showdown vs. the Saints and Cardinals. If the defense continues to tighten and offensive development progresses steadily, Tampa Bay projects between 9-8 and 10-7, staying competitive in the NFC South with a real shot at pushing for a wildcard spot.

The Tennessee Titans enter the 2025 season in full rebuild mode after a difficult 3-14 finish in 2024 and the firing of head coach Mike Vrabel. Rookie quarterback Cam Ward, the No. 1 overall pick, is expected to lead the offense following Will Levis’s season-ending shoulder surgery. With new additions like Kevin Zeitler on the offensive line and Tyler Lockett at wide receiver, the Titans hope to provide Ward with the support needed to grow. Defensively, Jeffery Simmons and Amani Hooker anchor the unit. Tennessee benefits from one of the easiest schedules in the NFL, ranked 29th toughest, opening with a road game at Denver before hosting the Rams and Colts. A challenging stretch of road games at Houston, Arizona and Las Vegas follows in Weeks 4-6, with a Week 7 home game against New England offering a breather. If Ward progresses and the team improves steadily, Tennessee could finish between 5-12 and 7-10, showing promise but unlikely playoff contention this year.

The Washington Commanders enter the 2025 season with high hopes after a 12-5 finish and a deep playoff run in 2024. Second-year quarterback Jayden Daniels is expected to build on a promising rookie campaign, supported by key additions like WR Deebo Samuel and LT Laremy Tunsil. Defensively, veterans Bobby Wagner and Von Miller anchor a unit aiming to stay competitive in a tough NFC East. The Commanders face a challenging schedule that includes divisional games against the Giants, Cowboys and Eagles, plus road tests at Green Bay and Kansas City. Their season opener against the Giants at home sets an early tone, and a midseason stretch features key matchups against the Raiders and Rams. With a demanding slate and fierce competition, Washington projects to finish around 10-7 or 11-6, likely contending for a playoff spot but still needing more consistency to make a deep postseason run.


AFC

AFC East

Buffalo Bills: 13-4 

Miami Dolphins: 9-8

New England Patriots: 8-9

New York Jets: 8-9


AFC North

Baltimore Ravens: 14-3

Cincinnati Bengals: 10-7

Pittsburgh Steelers: 9-8

Cleveland Browns: 6-11


AFC South

Indianapolis Colts: 10-7

Houston Texans: 9-8

Tennessee Titans: 6-11

Jacksonville Jaguars 5-12


AFC West

Kansas City Chiefs: 13-4

Denver Broncos: 11-6

Los Angeles Chargers: 9-8

Las Vegas Raiders: 6-11


NFC

NFC East

Philadelphia Eagles: 12-5

Washington Commanders: 11-6

Dallas Cowboys: 9-8 

New York Giants: 7-10


NFC North

Detroit Lions: 12-5

Minnesota Vikings: 10-7

Green Bay Packers: 10-7

Chicago Bears: 6-11


NFC South

Tampa Bay Buccaneers:10-7

Atlanta Falcons: 9-8

New Orleans Saints: 7-10

Carolina Panthers: 5-12


NFC West

San Francisco 49ers: 11-6

Seattle Seahawks: 10-7

Los Angeles Rams: 9-8

Arizona Cardinals: 8-9


Disclaimer: This article reflects personal opinions and research and is not affiliated with or endorsed by any individuals, teams, or organizations mentioned.


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