100 days to the 2025 NFL season: Issues to know, predictions

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Ben SolakMight 27, 2025, 06:55 AM ET
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The 2025 NFL season is formally 100 days away, so I’ve written 100 issues to know.

They’re varied in class — necessary names to know, improved groups, wage cap issues, jersey quantity analytics, daring predictions, key returners from IR, and so on. Chances are you’ll learn them suddenly or, for those who like, deal with this like an Creation calendar and browse just one on daily basis from now till kickoff on Sept. 4. (If any of you really try this, I’ll report you to the suitable authorities.)

Listed here are my 100 issues for 100 days earlier than the 2025 NFL season, beginning with 10 under-the-radar names.

10 names to know

They are going to be large offers within the 2025 season. Meet them now and get forward of the curve.

Edgerrin Cooper, LB, Inexperienced Bay Packers

The sunshine bulb went on for Cooper final 12 months, as he rose from sub-package participant to 100% snap starter by season’s finish. From December on, I am unsure there have been 5 extra impactful linebackers in all of soccer. Cooper is very energetic in opposition to the run and a dependable tackler in house. He has the scale and athletic capability to be a strong protection man. After he received one All-Professional vote final season, I might wager Cooper will get double-digit votes in 2025.

Elgton Jenkins, C, Inexperienced Bay Packers

Jenkins is without doubt one of the coolest gamers within the league. In six seasons, he has performed not less than 300 snaps at 4 of the 5 offensive line positions: each deal with spots, left guard and heart. The movie has been good in all places, too — absurd consistency. His final in depth expertise at heart was in 2020, however he is anticipated to fill that spot in 2025 after Josh Myers left for the Jets in free company. Jenkins is in a contract dispute with the Packers proper now, as he has two years left on his deal and reportedly needs his compensation to mirror his versatility. I agree with him. What a participant.

Nick Caley, offensive coordinator, Houston Texans

I am at all times hesitant about later branches plucked off teaching timber. The primary few Sean McVay assistants in all probability have the products, however the fourth, fifth and sixth choices had been in all probability behind the road for a motive. However Caley, who spent the previous two years within the McVay incubator, was a longtime offensive coach for the Patriots earlier than becoming a member of the Rams, so he is not actually a unbroken chip off a chip off a chip off the block.

No offense was held again extra by teaching errors final season than Houston’s unit. If Caley is even league common as a Yr 1 playcaller, count on the Texans to lastly ship on their 2024 preseason hype.

Kelee Ringo, CB, Philadelphia Eagles

The reigning Tremendous Bowl champions used the draft to deal with quick wants of their protection, which was left naked by free agent departures. However they did not draft a cornerback till Spherical 5, leaving room for Ringo, a 2023 fourth-round decide, to win the beginning job reverse rookie star Quinyon Mitchell. Ringo has performed fewer than 400 defensive snaps in his two seasons as a professional, however he is simply turning 23 this summer season — the identical age as some rookies. He has elite athletic traits as well. If Ringo is prepared for his second, the Eagles’ protection seems adequately and quickly retooled for one more postseason push.

Al Golden, defensive coordinator, Cincinnati Bengals

Think about final season’s Bengals with a league-average protection. That is not only a playoff workforce. That is a workforce that might have crushed the Ravens, Payments, Chiefs or another AFC contender in any playoff atmosphere. The Bengals’ defensive depth chart stays a considerable obstacle to their ascension to league common, however outgoing coordinator Lou Anarumo ran a system famend for its complexity and wish for high quality communication, one thing that many younger defenders in Cincinnati struggled to understand.

May Golden, who simply labored with younger gamers for 3 years at Notre Dame, supply a fast enhance to early draft picks like Dax Hill or Myles Murphy by simplifying their roles? I am not betting on a giant leap within the Bengals’ protection, however it’s not less than within the playing cards.

RJ Harvey, RB, Denver Broncos

For those who’re a fantasy participant, you already know what I am about to let you know, however let’s catch everybody else on top of things. The Broncos, who’ve an unbelievable offensive line and a coach traditionally prepared to contain the working again within the passing recreation, drafted Harvey within the second spherical. The 24-year-old carried a giant load at UCF, so he is presumably pro-ready for the first position within the backfield, and he confirmed some expertise within the passing recreation. The Broncos want higher performances from all their non-Courtland Sutton playmakers, and Harvey is first in line to offer that bounce.

Nate Wiggins, CB, Baltimore Ravens

Wiggins was nominally the Ravens’ CB2 final season, beginning as a rookie reverse veteran Brandon Stephens. However he was functionally their CB1. Extremely aggressive and bodily on the line of scrimmage, Wiggins performed his finest ball in opposition to his finest opponents (Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and Malik Nabers). He wasn’t excellent, however rookie corners not often are. If he performs with better consistency, he’ll be thought-about one of many league’s higher beginning corners. And the workforce is banking on that enchancment as a result of its exterior nook depth behind Wiggins is perilously skinny. He must be the man.

Josh Grizzard, OC, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Buccaneers have achieved a uncommon and fantastic factor this offseason: They’re slated to return all 11 starters from their 2024 offense. The one change is on the headset. Liam Coen left for the Jaguars’ head teaching job, and Grizzard was elevated from passing recreation coordinator to offensive coordinator.

Grizzard has had a fast rise within the NFL teaching ranks; he was first an offensive high quality management coach with the Dolphins in 2017 and had solely two years as a large receivers coach in Miami earlier than he received the job with the Bucs final season. At simply 34 years outdated, and with expertise underneath Mike McDaniel and Coen, it is truthful to have “subsequent large factor” suspicions round Grizzard. If he can hold the prepare chugging from final season, the Bucs ought to have a top-10 offense once more.

Daiyan Henley, LB, Los Angeles Chargers

The Chargers had a beginning linebacker spot up for grabs in 2024 after Kenneth Murray Jr. signed with the Titans in free company. Rookie Junior Colson was anticipated to fill it. He was the Michigan man, in spite of everything, following his coach (Jim Harbaugh) and defensive coordinator (Jesse Minter) to the large leagues. As a substitute, it was Henley, the 2023 third-rounder who performs a lot larger than his 6-foot-1, 230-pound body would counsel.

Henley has the instincts, quickness and tackling capability to affect the sport sideline to sideline — one thing many linebackers aspire to do, however few can. He received 18 All-Professional votes in 2024 and deserved extra.

Deonte Banks, CB, New York Giants

Cornerback is a tough place. As a rookie in 2023, Banks seemed like a rising star. (Examine Wiggins above and simply change the names.) However Banks’ sophomore marketing campaign was plagued with psychological lapses, pointless dangers and misplaced 50-50 balls. The Giants hit on their slot nook (Dru Phillips), added a beginning security (Jevon Holland) and snagged a brand new CB1 in free company (Paulson Adebo). So a return to 2023 type for Banks might nicely elevate the Giants’ secondary to top-10 ranges. And for those who begin doing the mathematics on a protection with a top-10 cross rush and a top-10 secondary …

9 attention-grabbing schedule options

As a result of that is at all times what we discuss in Might.

In Week 1, the Chiefs play the Chargers in Brazil at 8 p.m. ET, streaming completely on YouTube. You get to elucidate to your dad and mom (1) why there is a recreation on Friday night time, (2) why it is in Brazil and (3) find out how to discover it on yet one more new streaming service. Congrats!

New Patriots receiver Stefon Diggs returns to Buffalo in Week 5 — his first recreation at Orchard Park since he left the Payments earlier than the 2024 season.

The Eagles and Packers play in Week 10. It is the Tush Pushers in opposition to The Guys Who Tried To Ban Tush-Pushing. I’ve by no means been extra excited for an eventual fourth-and-1.

Ben Johnson’s Bears meet his outdated Lions in Week 2. I will guess you $100 proper now the Bears rating on a trick play.

One other good Bears recreation comes in opposition to the Cowboys in Week 3. Former Chicago head coach Matt Eberflus is the brand new Cowboys defensive coordinator, and expunged coaches typically produce robust performances when revenge is on the desk.

To that finish, new Patriots coach Mike Vrabel will get his first crack on the Titans in Week 7 in Nashville. Vrabel was the Titans’ head coach from 2018 to 2023.

New Steelers receiver DK Metcalf will get an early assembly with the Seahawks, going through his outdated workforce in Week 2. Metcalf clearly had monetary frustrations with Seattle however received an enormous contract from the Steelers as a part of his offseason commerce. It looks like a very good likelihood to indicate the outdated guys why he was value each penny.

One other revenge recreation, although this one will not be all that vengeful. The Panthers and 49ers play in Week 12, which pits Christian McCaffrey in opposition to his outdated workforce for the primary time. I am unsure if McCaffrey really holds any kind of sick emotions concerning the Panthers, however I suppose we’ll discover out.

I did not understand this till I noticed Jaguars reporter Michael DiRocco’s observe in our full schedule preview: The Jaguars and Texans have not performed for the reason that Azeez Al-Shaair hit that ended Trevor Lawrence‘s 2024 season and incited a bench-clearing brawl. Effectively, they’re going to play in Week 3. Anticipate some pregame shenanigans and first drive tone-setting.

11 jobs with query marks

A few of them are up for grabs. Others are on sizzling seats.

Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel

I consider two issues very strongly. First, McDaniel’s work constructing an offense round QB Tua Tagovailoa is among the finest offensive scheming within the league. Second, his offense fades in opposition to really nice defenses, in chilly climate and on the highway — briefly, playoff soccer. The Dolphins want a powerful season from their protection, which might have a particularly inexperienced and shaky secondary following a Jalen Ramsey commerce, to make a postseason push. In any other case, it will be 4 seasons with no playoff victory underneath McDaniel — robust to defend.

Panthers quarterback Bryce Younger

What a turnaround it has been for Younger, who’s the unquestioned starter in Carolina lower than 9 months after he was benched within the 2024 season. Younger was miles higher post-benching than he was earlier than, however the hay is not within the barn simply but. Beginning in Week 5, Younger was fourth in completion share over expectation (NFL Subsequent Gen Stats) however thirty first in off-target price. Which means he was connecting together with his receivers on high-leverage throws deep downfield, which is explosive but additionally unsustainable. Confidence is excessive, although, and he has earned the correct to construct on his enchancment.

Texans WR2

Getting into final season, the Texans’ goal hierarchy was clear: Nico Collins, then Tank Dell, then Stefon Diggs, then Dalton Schultz. Getting into this season, it’s something however clear. Collins and Schultz are nonetheless round, however Diggs joined the Patriots and Dell’s main knee harm leaves each WR2 and WR3 spots up for grabs.

For the 2 open battles, the Texans drafted two rookies, each from Iowa State: Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel. They will compete with Christian Kirk for a out of the blue giant pile of targets. Houston desperately wants to have the ability to punish groups that double-cover Collins and should hit on a type of rookies — or see a giant post-injury resurgence from Kirk — to tug it off.

Colts GM Chris Ballard

The Colts haven’t made the playoffs prior to now 4 seasons and haven’t gained a playoff recreation prior to now six seasons, all underneath Ballard’s path. They’ve poured loads of assets into the passing assault over the previous few offseasons. Other than drafting QB Anthony Richardson, the Colts spent early picks on WR Josh Downs (third spherical), WR Alec Pierce (second spherical), WR Adonai Mitchell (second spherical) and TE Tyler Warren (first spherical). They prolonged Michael Pittman Jr. They signed Daniel Jones.

If the Colts can’t work out a passing offense this season, this time subsequent 12 months is ripe for a tough reset in any respect key positions: quarterback, head coach and even basic supervisor.

Colts quarterback

It is uncommon to see an precise open camp battle at quarterback, however that is what we have got right here in Indianapolis. The camp battle format — throws in opposition to air with no dwell tackling or cross rush — skews towards Daniel Jones, who additionally has the benefit of being the brand new child on the block. However Anthony Richardson nonetheless has the potential to be the future of the franchise, whereas Jones can be a stopgap. You’ll want to put your notifications on for Colts reporter Stephen Holder. That is going to be a barn burner!

Saints quarterback

Not like the Colts’ battle, I am uncertain that this one is definitely actual. However in response to new coach Kellen Moore, second-year professional Spencer Rattler will battle 2025 draft choice Tyler Shough for the QB1 spot following Derek Carr’s retirement.

The tea leaves learn to me thusly: The Saints had been completely happy to spend one other 12 months with Carr on the helm, however then they received the dangerous information about his throwing shoulder, suspected his retirement and prioritized an early quarterback choice with Shough at No. 40. This teaching employees was not round when Rattler was drafted, and if it had actual curiosity in him as a developmental starter, it would not have taken Shough as extremely because it did.

Chiefs left deal with

I am unsure when the Chiefs final had a bona fide good left deal with. It was probably Orlando Brown Jr. within the 2022 season, however I might argue he is extra round league common. Kansas Metropolis would do something for a median left deal with, nonetheless, given the best way the place has restricted the offense prior to now couple of seasons.

The Chiefs took two high-reward swings with the signing of Jaylon Moore and drafting of Josh Simmons, however each are additionally high-risk. Moore wasn’t a starter in San Francisco, and Simmons is coming off a significant knee harm at Ohio State. Regardless, the Chiefs are doubtless — however not assured — to get the purposeful play they so desperately want.

Bengals proper guard

Staying on our theme of AFC contenders and key offensive line positions, the Bengals are filling the sneakers of Alex Cappa (launched as a cap casualty) with both incumbent Cody Ford or free agent addition Lucas Patrick. Neither is an exciting choice, which leaves the door open for rookie third-rounder Dylan Fairchild to win the spot. Guard play was a giant difficulty for this workforce final season, and Joe Burrow‘s harm historical past makes poor cross safety really feel all of the extra regarding.

Steelers quarterback

Do not really watch this job. Regardless of the consequence, it is going to be too painful to even observe. Mason Rudolph in opposition to Skylar Thompson and Will Howard with the hope that Aaron Rodgers reveals up? I might by no means.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski

I don’t know what the goalposts are for Stefanski this season, however the workforce was 3-14 final 12 months, and one other three-win season would not shock me within the slightest. I’ll say this with full conviction: Stefanski looks like a wonderful veteran OC retread choice if and when the Browns clear home. He has made the most effective out of the Browns’ QB carousel and navigated main offensive accidents over the previous two seasons.

Cowboys working again

The Cowboys had been seemingly unhappy with their committee strategy that includes Rico Dowdle and Ezekiel Elliott final season. However for some motive past my understanding, they’re set to enter camp with a committee that includes Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders and rookie fifth-rounder Jaydon Blue. Absolutely this 12 months the Cowboys will not be punished by not having a again they’ll belief!

14 intrusive ideas

These are issues I believe I believe, however I don’t but know precisely find out how to specific them. Don’t decide me.

There are two groups that might fairly challenge as having the most effective offensive line and the most effective protection for the 2025 season: Minnesota and Denver. As such, Minnesota and Denver register as “Tremendous Bowl darkish horses” on my “What kind of contender are you?” scale earlier than I even know something about their respective younger quarterbacks.

Here’s a record of issues I consider:

Garrett Wilson is the most effective receiver Justin Fields has performed with in his NFL profession.
Wilson is the WR1 with the most important hole in high quality between him and his WR2 in all the league.
Wilson has performed totally on exhausting mode (a variety of press protection, downfield routes, contested balls, and so on.), and new coordinator Tanner Engstrand will prioritize getting him simpler targets.

As such, I’ve a nagging suspicion that Wilson will lead the league in receiving yards in 2025.

Clark all for how Glenn places his imprint on Jets

Ryan Clark is intrigued to see if Aaron Glenn and Justin Fields could make their marks with the Jets.

ESPN BET ranks the more than likely NFC representatives for the Tremendous Bowl on this order: Eagles, Lions, 49ers, Commanders, Packers, Rams, Vikings and Buccaneers.

I’d have the Buccaneers over each workforce apart from the Eagles. Possibly tied with the Lions and Rams, however no decrease than that.

If the Dolphins commerce Jalen Ramsey, their beginning secondary shall be Storm Duck and Cam Smith at exterior nook, Kader Kohou within the nickel and Ashtyn Davis and Ifeatu Melifonwu at security. I am sorry to say that is an early candidate for “worst place group” within the league.

For one more 12 months, the best non-quarterback aggressive benefit within the NFL is that of Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores. He’s unquestionably one of many 32 (if not 20) finest coaches in soccer and a transparent and apparent head teaching candidate, if not for the truth that he’s suing the league.

Here is one thing I wrestle to place into phrases. (Sure, at all times good to write down that sentence simply earlier than publishing one thing.) Jayden Daniels had a traditionally productive rookie quarterback season. The Commanders’ fan base and workforce brass ought to really feel assured and impressed about the way forward for the place. Nonetheless, I am nonetheless as — if no more — impressed by how nicely Drake Maye performed on that horrible Patriots offense final season.

Statistically, he did not maintain a candle. However diploma of issue? Maye was enjoying a totally completely different sport. I will put it this fashion and hope metropolitan D.C. does not come for my head: Patriots followers ought to really feel as assured and impressed about their future at quarterback as Commanders followers do proper now.

What if Michael Penix Jr. struggles quite a bit? The Atlanta quarterback began solely three video games, and whereas he had moments of excellent, he had loads of dangerous, too. What if Penix begins sluggish and Kirk Cousins continues to be on the roster? What if the Falcons, who haven’t made the playoffs in eight seasons (wild!), shocked the world with a brilliant aggressive funding in QB2 after which pressured him into motion approach sooner than anticipated — just for that QB2 to not be prepared?

The entire eggs are out of the blue in that Penix basket.

Sorry, Falcons followers, however there aren’t two sides to that coin. I believe J.J. McCarthy may very well be the Twenty fourth-best quarterback within the league subsequent season and the Vikings would nonetheless win 12 video games. That is the distinction between a well-built roster and a haphazardly constructed one.

The Texans have made consecutive AFC divisional rounds, however we do not discuss them like we speak concerning the Ravens or Payments. I believe that is mistaken. The Texans’ protection can get burned in its aggressive type (see: all video games in opposition to Lamar Jackson), however over the previous two seasons, it has proven up in key postseason moments and in opposition to prime opponents as a rule. The Texans’ offense upset final season, however the potential for a right away bounce-back is there underneath a brand new teaching employees.

ESPN BET has the Texans with the sixth-best odds to win the AFC. They’re behind the Bengals and Chargers, which simply does not mirror the truth of these three groups over the previous few seasons. I am shopping for Houston.

I believe the only finest transfer within the offseason, bar none, with out query, all issues thought-about, was the Payments in some way signing Khalil Shakir to a four-year deal value solely $13.25 million per 12 months. Darnell Mooney cash? I nonetheless cannot consider it. Shakir goes to have his first 1,000-yard season in 2025.

I want the Broncos made a splashier transfer within the ability place group. Once they lined up in opposition to Buffalo within the wild-card spherical, their offense merely didn’t current sufficient hazard to a well-coached, deep Payments protection. Since then, they’ve added Evan Engram, RJ Harvey and Pat Bryant — a veteran tight finish and two rookies. I am imagining this offense as soon as once more lining up in opposition to Buffalo and feeling a lot the identical approach.

Marvel what the commerce deadline finally ends up trying like for this workforce.

The Commanders’ finest cross rusher proper now’s Frankie Luvu, which is just a little bizarre as a result of he is an off-ball linebacker. The precise defensive ends are Dorance Armstrong, Jacob Martin, Clelin Ferrell and Deatrich Clever Jr. I … do not love that for a presumed Tremendous Bowl hopeful.

I do not suppose I’ve the fortitude to endure a whole offseason of Browns QB battle updates. Shedeur Sanders hype as he is throwing to — and in opposition to — fourth-stringers. Kenny Pickett with the primary workforce in 2025. I can not do it. I am not robust sufficient.

If we do not get a cool trick play landing on the new kickoff, I’ll file a criticism with the league workplace. We have all had a full season and two offseasons to take a look at it. Any individual dial up a reverse, please.

Three most improved groups

Wow, they received higher!

Las Vegas Raiders (4-13 in 2024)

No workforce made larger strides on the two most necessary positions than the Raiders. Geno Smith is a number of tiers higher than Gardner Minshew and Aidan O’Connell, which ought to present weekly above-average quarterback play. Pete Carroll is a number of tiers higher at head coach than Antonio Pierce, who struggled with in-game and locker room administration. These adjustments alone ought to massively increase the Raiders’ flooring, and the presence of potential offensive stars similar to Brock Bowers and Ashton Jeanty elevate the ceiling.

I count on the Raiders to be round .500 this season, as long as they endure the defensive departures.

Chicago Bears (5-12 in 2024)

It has been 5 months for the reason that 2024 common season ended, and we’re nonetheless uncovering extra layers of the teaching ineptitude in Chicago. Caleb Williams‘ rookie season was rife with regarding movie, but it surely’s fairly straightforward to attribute his spiraling to the poor teaching. With Ben Johnson readily available and Dennis Allen working the protection, the Bears must be much more purposeful in 2025. Their substantial offseason additions on offense might outline a really excessive ceiling, in the event that they hit.

Foxworth: Caleb Williams is in a must-deliver spot with Bears

Domonique Foxworth explains that Caleb Williams has to play nicely now that his makes an attempt to keep away from the Bears have been revealed.

New England Patriots (4-13 in 2024)

I am thrilled with Drake Maye‘s rookie efficiency and long-term potential, and I am equally stoked concerning the Patriots’ offseason. They’re banking on a younger offense, which can reap extra rewards in 2026 than in 2025. However defensively, they’re poised for a giant leap following loads of free agent acquisitions.

I believe Maye can lug the offense into an honest tier on his personal, whereas a top-flight secondary with cornerbacks Carlton Davis III and Christian Gonzalez can win a couple of video games on protection alone.

Three least improved groups

Yeah, they received worse.

Philadelphia Eagles (14-3 in 2024)

It is not significantly revolutionary to say that the Tremendous Bowl champion goes to have a hangover, however boy howdy did the Eagles lose a variety of expertise. Actually, 4,114 defensive snaps from 2024 are out the door with defensive linemen Milton Williams, Josh Sweat and Brandon Graham and defensive backs C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Darius Slay Jr. and Isaiah Rodgers. In fact, they’ve younger gamers ready within the wings, however I might count on a rocky begin as they shake off the cobwebs. The Eagles begin with the Cowboys, Chiefs, Rams, Bucs and Broncos — 5 potential playoff groups. Issues might get squirrelly.

Seattle Seahawks (10-7 in 2024)

The Seahawks’ offseason received a ton of protection, so we need not rehash all of it. However when Geno Smith, Tyler Lockett and DK Metcalf go away the constructing for Sam Darnold, Cooper Kupp and Marquez Valdes-Scantling, you are downgraded in my eyes. The offensive line nonetheless has large query marks, even when rookie Gray Zabel performs nicely. Coach Mike Macdonald labored wonders with this protection final season and should achieve this once more this 12 months.

Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7 in 2024)

The Steelers swapped George Pickens and Van Jefferson for DK Metcalf and Robert Woods, which does not really feel that significantly better, if in any respect. They swapped Najee Harris for Kaleb Johnson, which once more does not really feel nice. The departure of Dan Moore Jr. at left deal with looms giant on offense, as nicely. Oh, and there is the little matter of the quarterback place.

Even when Aaron Rodgers indicators with the Steelers, I am not satisfied the offense is healthier than final season — and for the (decently large!) likelihood Rodgers does not be part of the Steelers, this workforce is clearly worse than in 2024. Nonetheless, as at all times with a Mike Tomlin-coached workforce, that lower in workforce energy could not result in an precise lower in win complete.

10 daring predictions that you just should not combination — except they find yourself being appropriate

Please don’t attempt to screenshot these. It should trigger your cellphone/laptop/pill to blow up.

Rams rookie tight finish Terrance Ferguson will supplant Tyler Higbee because the starter by Week 5 and finish the season because the second-best goal in L.A. behind Puka Nacua (and forward of Davante Adams). Name it 63 catches, 821 yards and 6 scores.

The Packers will miss the playoffs. I believe two of the most important nonnegotiables for playoff groups are having a cross rush and a dominant receiver. The Packers positively do not have the primary and nonetheless may not have the second, even after drafting Matthew Golden in Spherical 1. They had been plus-12 in turnover differential final season, which ranked third within the NFL, however that tends to not be a sticky quantity. (I’m additionally trying on the plus-24 Payments with supreme suspicion.)

Mykel Williams will win Defensive Rookie of the Yr. If the 49ers unleash him as a cross rusher in a approach that Georgia by no means did — and if his left ankle is wholesome — he has an ideal pass-rush profile for early success. He’ll additionally not often see double groups reverse Nick Bosa. A ten-plus-sack season is nicely throughout the playing cards. (And if he does not win this award, Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger will.)

Omarion Hampton will win Offensive Rookie of the Yr. I believe he’ll rapidly out-touch Najee Harris, and I believe the Chargers wish to return to a extra run-heavy strategy after turning pass-heavy out of necessity late final season. He’ll outproduce fellow first-rounder Ashton Jeanty, too. I see a 1,200-rushing-yard season incoming.

Chargers GM to McAfee: Omarion Hampton was a participant we could not cross on

Chargers basic supervisor Joe Hortiz talks with Pat McAfee concerning the resolution to draft Omarion Hampton within the first spherical.

The primary, collective swell of a fan base desirous to tank for the Arch Manning decide will come Oct. 5, when the Browns begin 0-5. (Their early-season schedule is brutal.) Manning may have simply crushed the Florida Gators on Oct. 4 in a blinding four-touchdown efficiency. The rallying cry shall be “The March to Arch,” or presumably “Planning for Manning.”

Jaguars receiver Brian Thomas Jr. will set an NFL report with 12 video games of not less than 100 receiving yards. He had 4 final season, and three got here within the closing 4 weeks.

By this time subsequent 12 months, we’ll all name Brock Bowers the most effective tight finish in soccer, and no person will flinch even just a little bit.

The Panthers will go 9-8. I am not even certain I really consider this, as I’ve my Bryce Younger doubts. However what I like a lot concerning the Panthers is what’s round Younger. Dave Canales has the products and seems to be a future Coach of the Yr. Defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero has the products and seems to be a future head coach. Many latest additions — Robert Hunt, Xavier Legette, Tetairoa McMillan, Tre’von Moehrig, Nic Scourton, Princely Umanmielen, and so on. — are gamers I’ve appreciated above consensus, too.

I am assured the arrow is pointed up in Carolina. If there’s something actual in Younger’s resurgence, the Panthers must be combating for a wild-card spot.

Cardinals QB Kyler Murray has 82 profession begins with no playoff win, which looks like quite a bit however is barely tied for twenty ninth out of all quarterbacks since 1950. Chargers QB Justin Herbert is simply behind him with 79.

One of many two will get their first postseason win this season. Possibly each. (OK, in all probability only one.)

The Geno Smith profession resurrection got here in 2022. The Baker Mayfield profession resurrection got here in 2023. The Sam Darnold profession resurrection got here in 2024. Now the Justin Fields profession resurrection will are available 2025. Watch him hit 3,000 passing yards, 900 speeding yards and 30 complete touchdowns.

16 gamers coming back from injured reserve

It is easy to neglect what number of gamers missed a bunch of video games final season. These are the important thing returners anticipated to play large roles in 2025.

Rashee Rice, WR, Kansas Metropolis Chiefs

Rice was enjoying nicely final season, however you may not bear in mind simply how nicely he was enjoying earlier than a proper knee harm put him on IR. In three video games, Rice had 24 catches for 288 yards and two scores. That is a 17-game tempo of 136 catches for 1,632 yards and 11 touchdowns. Rice would have been the season chief in receptions and second solely to Ja’Marr Chase in receiving yards had he stayed wholesome and on tempo.

Rice will not take the identical quantity, given the best way Xavier Worthy emerged as an beneath goal, however he has the scale and ball-winning capability the Chiefs sorely lacked down the stretch.

Aidan Hutchinson, Edge, Detroit Lions

Maybe the highest-profile harm of 2024 was Hutchinson’s season-ending damaged leg in Week 6, as he joined what would turn into an avalanche of Detroit defensive accidents. Hutchinson was a Defensive Participant of the Yr front-runner when he went down, with league-leading figures in sacks (6.5), QB hits (14) and pressures (25). Detroit invested closely within the defensive deal with place this offseason, however edge rusher stays a skinny group apart from Hutchinson. His return to full well being is important to Detroit’s Tremendous Bowl aspirations.

Derrick Barnes, LB, Detroit Lions

Aidan Hutchinson is the larger title, however Barnes has been necessary to the Lions’ protection for years and was rewarded with a three-year extension at the same time as he returns from a knee harm. Barnes is an old-school linebacker who can play on- and off-ball, and with ex-linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard now the defensive coordinator, I might count on to see Barnes featured. He is a giant a part of the run protection and helps unencumber Hutchinson to hurry off the weak aspect.

Christian McCaffrey, RB, San Francisco 49ers

The 4 video games by which McCaffrey performed final season had been regarding. NFL Subsequent Gen Stats had his most speeds in these 4 video games at 16.4, 16.7, 16.1 and 17.4 mph. For context, that 17.4 mph mark would have been his fifth worst in a recreation through the 2023 season, when he was the MVP of the 49ers’ Tremendous Bowl-bound offense. He clearly seemed much less springy in 2024 than he did in 2023; in reality, he seemed like a participant who had a cool 417 touches within the earlier season.

It is exhausting for working backs’ our bodies to endure the extent of use McCaffrey endured in 2023, however not inconceivable. We’ll know rapidly if his physique has bounced again for 2025 after lacking time for Achilles and knee accidents in 2024.

Lloyd Cushenberry III, C, Tennessee Titans

Cushenberry signed one of many greatest contracts amongst facilities final offseason when he joined the Titans in free company. He was delivering, too, earlier than a torn Achilles ended his season in Week 9. If he can return to full energy for Week 1, that is a gigantic deal because the Titans onboard rookie Cam Ward. Nothing steadies a younger passer fairly like a veteran presence at heart.

Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed, WRs, New Orleans Saints

The Saints’ offense began so sizzling and fell so exhausting largely due to the accidents to Olave and Shaheed. Shaheed is anticipated to be all the best way again after knee surgical procedure in October. Olave suffered the fourth concussion of his NFL profession and missed the Saints’ closing eight video games of the season. If New Orleans has any hope of a purposeful 2025 offense, it wants Olave to remain protected and wholesome and Shaheed to return to full pace.

Alex Singleton, LB, Denver Broncos

Singleton tore his left ACL in Week 3, which might have been a debilitating harm for the Broncos’ protection, however they rallied nicely with large performances from Cody Barton and Justin Strnad. The Broncos let Barton stroll in free company and signed Dre Greenlaw to exchange him, however Singleton is anticipated to begin over Strnad if he is again to type in coaching camp. The Broncos’ protection, which was among the finest in soccer final season, can in some way nonetheless take one other step ahead with offseason acquisitions and the return of Singleton.

SirVocea Dennis, LB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

When Dennis was wholesome final season, he was combating Ok.J. Britt for the beginning linebacker spot reverse Lavonte David — and he was successful that competitors. Dennis significantly impressed in protection over the center of the sector, and after his Week 4 shoulder harm, the Buccaneers began getting hammered within the intermediate center by opposing quarterbacks.

Tampa Bay handed fully on the linebacker place within the 2025 draft and let Britt go in free company. With solely Anthony Walker Jr. as depth, the Buccaneers have clearly positioned their religion in Dennis to play the vast majority of the snaps reverse David. Tampa Bay’s cross protection was the limiting consider its postseason push final season, and Dennis ought to present a lift there.

Brandon Aiyuk, WR, San Francisco 49ers

Aiyuk broke out in 2023 with 1,342 receiving yards as the first goal for Brock Purdy on a Tremendous Bowl run. Then 2024 was imagined to be the encore, because the 49ers took one other crack at a championship, however Aiyuk had solely 374 yards on 25 catches via the primary seven video games. There have been some near-misses and rust to begin the season, however Aiyuk nonetheless seemed like an ideal separator on movie … earlier than a torn ACL and MCL in Week 7. With Deebo Samuel Sr. gone to the Commanders, Aiyuk desperately must return to type as a dominant WR1 after final 12 months’s face-plant of a season.

Dak Prescott, QB, Dallas Cowboys

Issues weren’t significantly rosy for the 3-4 Cowboys earlier than Prescott went down with a hamstring avulsion (do not ask me, I do not know) in Week 9, and a training change was made accordingly. Prescott was squarely within the MVP race for a lot of the 2023 season, so the ceiling for high-caliber play continues to be there — and the acquisition of George Pickens provides the Cowboys a authentic duo at extensive receiver. Ought to Prescott return to his 2023 type, not less than the Cowboys’ passing assault shall be one thing fearsome. Who precisely finally ends up working the soccer, I nonetheless do not absolutely perceive.

Why Stephen A. nonetheless is not feeling good about Cowboys’ possibilities in NFC East

Stephen A. Smith explains why the George Pickens commerce does not transfer the Cowboys up within the NFC East.

Troy Fautanu, OT, Pittsburgh Steelers

Fautanu performed only one recreation as a rookie earlier than a dislocated kneecap knocked him out for the remainder of his debut marketing campaign. It is at all times robust for rookies who miss their first 12 months to maintain up with the developmental curve, however the Steelers want him to remain on observe. He’s the one reply at proper deal with, as Broderick Jones has to maneuver over to left deal with following Dan Moore Jr.’s departure in free company. For what it is value, I simply watched that one begin again on tape (Week 2 in opposition to the Broncos). Not dangerous!

Jaelan Phillips, Edge, Miami Dolphins

Miami’s defensive entrance — and specifically, its cross rush — was a drive to be reckoned with down the stretch final season. First-round decide Chop Robinson instantly hit, with a better stress price (17.2%) than eventual Defensive Rookie of the Yr Jared Verse. His fast first step will look nice reverse technician and sack artist Phillips, who missed all however three video games of the season with a torn ACL. It stays to be seen how rapidly Phillips can return to type, however with Robinson, Phillips and Bradley Chubb all on the sector on late downs, the Dolphins might have probably the most disruptive fronts in soccer.

Andrew Thomas, OT, New York Giants

Thomas, whom I contemplate one of many higher left tackles within the recreation and nonetheless an ascending participant, had Lisfranc surgical procedure and missed each recreation after Week 6. There wasn’t a lot occurring with the Giants’ season anyway, but when they’ve any hope of creating rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart, making certain a sealed blind aspect is a nonnegotiable. Lisfranc accidents will be nasty, lingering issues, so Thomas’ well being and type are one thing to regulate.

Jermaine Johnson, Edge, New York Jets

A 2022 first-rounder, Johnson took a giant step ahead in 2023 with 7.5 sacks, 36 pressures and 16 QB hits. Sadly, a torn Achilles in Week 2 stopped us from seeing what one other leap would have seemed like in 2024, and now a brand new defensive teaching employees has taken the reins in New York. Johnson has the scale that new coach Aaron Glenn covets in his edge defenders and must be in line for a beginning gig. However can he return to 2023 type off a significant harm and in a brand new system?

Dax Hill, DB, Cincinnati Bengals

Very attention-grabbing one right here. The Bengals picked up Hill’s fifth-year choice off his ACL harm — $12.7 million, all assured — with out readability on how Hill shall be utilized in new defensive coordinator Al Golden’s protection. Hill has began the vast majority of his profession at security however wasn’t nice there. It appeared he might have transitioned nicely to nook in 2024, however he performed solely 5 video games and was nonetheless working via the warts. There’s smoke now that he could be the brand new nickelback since Mike Hilton stays unsigned.

The place precisely Hill performs and what the Bengals get out of him there are large query marks for a protection in want of splashy gamers.

One overtime-related take that I needed to carry up however did not actually match within the different classes

It is not even actually a take. Only a musing.

New additional time guidelines! All regular-season additional time video games will now comply with the postseason guidelines of the previous few seasons, which means every offense is assured a possession. An offensive landing on the opening drive now not ends the additional time interval. If the sport stays tied after every workforce has a drive, then sudden dying begins — however the additional time interval is barely 10 minutes lengthy.

There’s some severe additional time recreation idea for the winner of the coin toss now. The workforce with the latter possession may have a variety of info that may dictate fourth-down selections. Do they want a landing to win? And even to increase the sport? A wise second-possession workforce will go for 2-point tries and fourth-down makes an attempt to attempt to stop a 3rd possession from ever occurring. So the second possession feels extra invaluable.

However bear in mind, the first-possession workforce is the third-possession workforce, and the third possession is when sudden dying begins. So having the ball first (and subsequently third) can also be good. See the confusion?

The brand new regular-season additional time is advanced and never utterly solved, which implies that by Week 4, we may have monumental web arguments in stark black and white about one thing that’s largely grey.

4 key monetary gadgets

It is all concerning the cash, cash, cash. Keep in mind that track?

Since Brock Purdy signed his five-year, $265 million extension, I’ve discovered myself reflecting on every little thing the 49ers misplaced in anticipation of this huge contract. Have a look at the free agent exodus of the previous few seasons: Mike McGlinchey, Chase Younger, Arik Armstead, Aaron Banks, Dre Greenlaw, Talanoa Hufanga, Charvarius Ward, Jaylon Moore, Javon Hargrave and Deebo Samuel Sr. That is a variety of expertise out of the constructing, however not with out good motive. Age, diminished play and harm had been all components. Nonetheless, it is the inescapable bloodletting of a workforce on the finish of a Tremendous Bowl window. Is all of it actually value it?

Then I keep in mind that this was at all times the plan. When the 49ers drafted Trey Lance with the third total decide in 2021, they anticipated a quarterback to begin getting costly across the 2025, possibly 2026 season. Purdy is stylistically completely different from what the 49ers hoped to get with Lance. He is extra of an extension of Kyle Shanahan’s present philosophy, whereas Lance was meant to be a revolution. However the cap sheets look comparable; Purdy’s monetary arc is about what the 49ers anticipated with Lance.

I’m not ringing any alarm bells, however I discover it attention-grabbing that T.J. Watt is within the closing 12 months of his cope with just about no smoke about an upcoming extension. I discover this doubly attention-grabbing when you think about that he’s 31 and coming off his worst season as a professional. And I discover it triply attention-grabbing that Watt has by no means gained a playoff recreation with the Steelers, who could also be approaching a large organizational overhaul if coach Mike Tomlin can’t work out the quarterback place. Only a thought!

The Lions are at the moment third within the league in 2025 cap house and twenty eighth in 2026 cap house, per Roster Administration System. It is a results of the timing on the extensions for Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Penei Sewell and Alim McNeill. These 4 gamers hit the cap for $66.7 million this 12 months however $159.7 million subsequent 12 months.

Rolling over that 2025 cap house into 2026 will present some aid, however not sufficient. An inevitable reset of some dimension is coming to the Lions subsequent offseason. Just a few large contracts for older starters shall be on the chopping block — LT Taylor Decker, C Frank Ragnow and RG Graham Glasgow are all candidates for restructuring or launch. It is a large season for coach Dan Campbell and basic supervisor Brad Holmes, who constructed a perennial contender masterfully however do not but have a Tremendous Bowl look to indicate for it. After this 12 months, the margins get approach, approach tighter.

Why the Lions’ NFC North successful streak could also be in jeopardy

Dan Graziano factors out the Lions play seven out of doors video games this season – a giant bounce from simply three final 12 months – which might pose a problem.

Fifteen gamers have a cap hit of not less than $30 million this season. Unsurprisingly, 12 of the 15 are quarterbacks — together with the likes of Kirk Cousins, Tua Tagovailoa, Geno Smith and Deshaun Watson however excluding Patrick Mahomes. The remaining three are Maxx Crosby, T.J. Watt and — I will provide you with 1,000 guesses — Taylor Moton. Think about that two seasons in the past, there have been three gamers with $30 million-plus cap hits. That is a 5x improve in simply two seasons!

You wish to get actually wild with it? The largest cap hit of the 2023 season for an energetic participant belonged to Mahomes at $37.1 million. That leapt to $49.1 million in 2024 (Kyler Murray) and $50.5 million in 2025 (Dak Prescott). The subsequent bounce is coming in 2026, when Watson hits the cap for $80.7 million. And even when Watson is minimize, as anticipated, Mahomes is correct there at $78.2 million.

We now have by no means had a participant hit the cap for $55 million in a single season. Subsequent 12 months, we’re projected to have eight. Cap’s going up!

Six key numbers, stat version

It is like Subsequent Ben Stats, simply in the course of the offseason.

943 yards

Puka Nacua holds the report for many receiving yards in a rookie season with 1,486. But Minnesota’s Justin Jefferson holds the report for many receiving yards via two seasons of a participant’s profession (3,016), three seasons (4,825), 4 seasons (5,899) and 5 seasons (7,432). An absurd testomony to early-career success and availability.

For context, Jefferson is 261 yards above second place in Yr 2, 662 above in Yr 3, 387 above in Yr 4 (regardless of lacking seven video games) and 648 above in Yr 5. To catch him within the Yr 5 numbers, Ja’Marr Chase wants a cool 2,008-yard season.

Jefferson is already seventh on the record for receiving yards via six seasons, and he has performed solely 5 seasons. He’ll take the highest spot with a mere 943 yards, which might take simply 10 video games on his profession common of 96.5 receiving yards per recreation (the most effective quantity in NFL historical past, so take your “17-game season” complaints and shove ’em).

That is what number of occasions a 30-plus-year-old working again has rushed for not less than 1,900 yards in an NFL season. It was … nicely, it was final 12 months, when Derrick Henry rushed for 1,921 yards on solely 325 carries at 30 years outdated (5.9 yards per try is by far the most effective single-season mark of his profession). Henry seemed just like the Henry of outdated after his closing two seasons in Tennessee tailed off statistically, and now he is on a brand new extension with a 12 months underneath his belt in Baltimore’s system.

The report for essentially the most speeding yards in an age-31 season belongs to Curtis Martin, who tallied 1,697 in 2004. So long as Henry retains strapping them on, we will count on him to problem the age milestones.

87%

That was the Commanders’ fourth-down conversion price final season. Learn that once more, as a result of it is easy to clean over and fail to grasp: 87% conversion price. They went 20 for 23 on fourth down.

It is virtually actually the most effective fourth-down season in historical past. Two groups since 2000 have higher conversion charges (2016 Cowboys and 2018 Chargers), however with far fewer makes an attempt (9 and 10, respectively). By complete EPA added (44.3), this was essentially the most impactful fourth-down season this century. Actually, 23.7% of the Commanders’ complete factors got here on drives that included a profitable fourth-down conversion, which is the fifth-highest variety of the century.

These are important numbers for the 2025 season as a result of they scream regression. Whereas it is affordable to count on the Commanders to proceed going for it on fourth down and changing at an honest price (a wonderful speeding quarterback is a giant a part of that), turning simply 5 conversions into failures would have a big impact on their win column. I can truthfully say I’m excited for the 2025 season as a result of I wish to see how Washington performs on fourth down. (I do know, I am a sicko!)

That is what number of occasions Bucs receiver Mike Evans may have produced a 1,000-yard receiving season if he does it once more this 12 months. Keep in mind, it took an additional effort in Week 18 to get him to his eleventh straight season, essentially the most to ever begin a profession. Jerry Rice additionally had 11 straight 1,000-yard seasons from 1986 to 1996, although he did not have 1,000 yards in Yr 1 like Evans did in 2014.

(Rice accrued 14 complete 1,000-yard seasons over his profession, which is the report. Verify again for my “100 issues to observe within the 2028 NFL season” in a couple of years for an replace on Evans’ tempo versus the all-time nice.)

That is what number of receivers might go over 1,000 profession receptions this season. DeAndre Hopkins (984), Keenan Allen (974) and Davante Adams (957) are inside placing vary. It appears virtually inevitable that Hopkins, at the moment the WR3 in Baltimore, will get there — he must common lower than one catch per recreation — and Adams will definitely shag not less than 44 balls if he stays wholesome because the Rams’ WR2. Allen continues to be a free agent, however he ought to get 27 catches if and when he indicators with a workforce.

Solely 15 gamers have over 1,000 profession receptions, with Travis Kelce (2024) the latest qualifier at 1,004. Earlier than Kelce, we had not seen a participant clear the mark since Steve Smith Sr. did it in 2016. It has been a minute!

That is what number of gamers have strung collectively three straight seasons of 1,000 speeding yards — Derrick Henry (duh), Najee Harris and Tony Pollard. Pollard did it in hilarious style with 1,007, 1,005 and 1,079 yards, however I used to be impressed by his efficiency because the 1A again in Tennessee. The Titans’ offensive line could take one other leap ahead, with Dan Moore Jr. and Kevin Zeitler becoming a member of in free company and Lloyd Cushenberry III coming off IR. Cam Ward is the thrilling title, however the working recreation could be the story of the Titans’ offense, particularly early within the season.

10 key numbers, jersey version

A really exact science …

Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs is switching from 26 to 0, which I do not like. Sporting 0 is at all times cool, clearly. However do not repair what ain’t broke! You had been taking the league by storm in 26! I suppose you do not wish to battle Saquon Barkley for 26 dominance. However nonetheless, that is tempting destiny.

Lions WR Jameson Williams is switching from 9 to 1. That is positive, as a result of 9 was a quick quantity, however 1 can also be a quick quantity, so Williams will stay quick. Think about if he was carrying 22 or one thing.

On that observe, Packers rookie WR Matthew Golden is carrying … 22, which is appalling. He wore 2 at Texas.

Commanders CB Marshon Lattimore goes from 23, the quantity he has worn for eight years within the NFL, to 2, the quantity he wore in faculty. Scientists stay unsure if this can return Lattimore to his collegiate athleticism.

Jaguars linebacker Devin Lloyd is switching from 33 to 0. This is without doubt one of the finest enhancements in jersey change historical past, and scientists are assured it would result in a lift in Lloyd’s play.

49ers WR Ricky Pearsall has modified his jersey quantity from 14 to 1, his faculty quantity. These are good vibes. The final 49er to put on No. 1 was Deebo Samuel Sr., the profession 49er who was simply traded to the Commanders. These are spooky vibes. Jury’s nonetheless out on this one.

Saints QB Spencer Rattler is now carrying 2, which supplies him a leg up within the Saints QB competitors in opposition to rookie Tyler Shough, who’s carrying 6 (an inferior quarterbacking quantity). Had been Rattler nonetheless carrying 18, he’d have much less of a lead.

Will Tyler Shough be able to play instantly for Saints?

Jason McCourty analyzes the strengths of Saints quarterback Tyler Shough and if he’ll be able to play instantly with Derek Carr nursing a shoulder harm.

Falcons first-round rookie cross rusher Jalon Walker is carrying 11, and different Falcons first-round rookie cross rusher James Pearce Jr. is carrying 27. This may perplex and disorient your dad and mom on recreation day. We now have misplaced the outdated methods.

Seahawks LB Uchenna Nwosu gave up his quantity 10 to extensive receiver Cooper Kupp in alternate for a donation to his basis. Nwosu is now carrying 7, which is a high-value quantity. Numerous positions would possibly need it in future jersey negotiations. I like the place Nwosu’s head’s at right here.

Giants rookie edge rusher Abdul Carter, after making an attempt to pry two retired numbers from Giants legends in 11 (Phil Simms) and 56 (Lawrence Taylor), landed on 51. That is a sick edge rusher quantity and will have been the plan within the first place. Cease unretiring numbers!

Three extra issues (so I can get to 100)

End the mission.

We began final season with loads of fearmongering concerning the onset of two-high coverages and the decline of the explosive cross. Possibly we’ll do it once more this September; possibly we’ll do one thing else. The problem is solely the abridged NFL offseason, which incorporates diminished follow time and declining preseason participation. September soccer is sloppy soccer, and that will not cease anytime quickly. Hold your takes holstered till October.

Everybody is just too afraid, so I will be the man to say it: The Chiefs had been 11-0 in one-score video games final season, they usually’re not going to tug that off once more. (Proper?) The defensive depth chart is fairly tough as nicely. They’ll be worse in 2025. (Proper?!)

I do not know, I am out. The tank is dry. Saquon Barkley is nice. There it’s — my closing take. Thanks for taking part in.