The Athletic offers exclusive updates from the 2025 NFL training camps. The inaugural match of the NFL season is just around the corner. Sure, it’s just the Hall of Fame Game, but as football enthusiasts know, it still counts. The preseason NFL Power Rankings have commenced, with the Eagles reigning over all, fresh from a resounding Super Bowl victory. Nevertheless, there remains an element of uncertainty. Will this be the turning point for the Ravens? Could a refreshed defensive line be a game-changer for the Bills? And for how long can the Chiefs, or the ‘Patrick Mahomeses,’ maintain their streak?
The esteemed Philadelphia Eagles roster will once again feature prominent offensive players. This comes as a relief considering the imminent challenges the defense faces after key departures, such as Milton Williams, Darius Slay Jr., and others, from last season. Can Jalen Hurts replicate the previous season’s zenith of his career, and could Saquon Barkley withstand another season with a load of over 378 touches – one of the highest in recent times?
The Baltimore Ravens showcased their prowess by ranking third in scoring in the latter half of the 2024 season. Lamar Jackson outperformed many, delivering a remarkable season despite not winning the MVP. Their ranking drops only due to the loss of 15 free agents which leaves them with the challenge of breaking a three-match playoff losing streak.
The destiny of the Buffalo Bills lies in the stronghold of their scrimmage lines. Despite Josh Allen reigning as the MVP of the prior season, it is the offensive and defensive lines that will ultimately decide the outcome. With strengthened defensive lines and maintained offensive front, the Bills pose a formidable threat.
While the Kansas City Chiefs have been ahead of the game since Patrick Mahomes took over in 2018, signs of fatigue were apparent by the end of last season. The return of their key wide receivers, Rashee Rice and Hollywood Brown, is expected to energize the offense this season.
The Green Bay Packers have a major success factor to consider: quarterback Jordan Love. Love is tasked with refining his game following last season’s struggles: 27 intercepts over the last two seasons and below-par scores in EPA and interceptions per attempt. This is a pivotal turning point for Love.
The Washington Commanders have bolstered their offensive line with new recruits to protect their prized asset – quarterback Jayden Daniels. While Daniels showcased promise in his rookie season, a second top-notch performance is crucial, especially with the Commanders’ defense ranking in the lower half and losing key player Jonathan Allen.
The Detroit Lions have undergone a significant reshuffle with the loss of their coaching staff and key players. The memory of an unexpected 45-31 playoff defeat to the Commanders must be put aside as they focus on new strategies and a refreshed team structure.
Despite taking a hit last year, particularly in their offensive line, the Houston Texans are clinging to the hope that their defense will carry them through. They were resilient in the previous season, ranking second in defensive success rate and fifth in defensive EPA per snap.
The Los Angeles Rams, despite Jared Verse’s stunning rookie season and the addition of Poona Ford to their defensive line, face an uphill battle. Their regular season point differential was negative and they average a mere 19.7 points in their recent games.
It’s a new era for the Minnesota Vikings, and it’s J.J. McCarthy’s turn to prove his mettle. While previous quarterbacks achieved respectable rankings, the squad is placing high hopes on McCarthy, who missed his rookie season from an injury.
The LA Chargers, despite ranking fairly low in the rushing game, carry high expectations for Justin Herbert. Herbert, now into his sixth season and becoming increasingly pricey, is highly anticipated to achieve his first playoff victory.
The Cincinnati Bengals may have been a high-scoring team but they still fell short of the playoffs. The key question hanging in the air is whether Trey Hendrickson will renew his deal with the team and his potential impact on a squad that didn’t perform impressively in the defensive EPA last season.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are in a revamp mode with high-profile signings, including setting a league record by making T.J. Watt the highest-paid non-quarterback. The coming season could break their dry spell with no playoff victory since 2016.
The Denver Broncos boasted the best defense in the past season, but signs of fragility emerged with the season’s close. However, recruitment efforts in the offseason, including first-round pick Jahdae Barron, signals strong rebuilding efforts.
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