The 2025 NFL season is just around the corner, which means it’s time to reevaluate the outlooks for all 32 teams. Check out how holdouts, breakouts and injuries have impacted our rankings since our postdraft list.
Preseason games conclude Saturday and cut-down day is Aug. 27, so this is the last offseason edition of Power Rankings.
In addition to our 1-32 ranking, NFL Nation reporters named one coach, player or executive on each team who is under the most pressure this season. Let’s start with the reigning Super Bowl champions.
Our power panel of more than 30 writers and editors evaluates how NFL teams stack up against one another, ranking them from 1 to 32.
Previous rankings: Post-Super Bowl, Post-free-agency, Postdraft
Jump to a team:
ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN
CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND
JAX | KC | LAC | LAR | LV | MIA | MIN
NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF
SEA | TB | TEN | WSH
Postdraft ranking: 2
Who’s under the most pressure: Offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo
The Eagles are well-established, coming off a Super Bowl. But one significant change came at offensive coordinator, where Patullo replaced Kellen Moore and will serve as a full-time playcaller for the first time in his career. Patullo has been coach Nick Sirianni’s right-hand man since 2021, and the offense isn’t expected to change much, making for a smooth transition. But with so much offensive talent, the bar is high, and Patullo will absorb some of the heat if the unit doesn’t operate as expected. — Tim McManus
Postdraft ranking: 1
Who’s under the most pressure: Wide receiver Rashee Rice
Although he is no longer expected to be suspended for the first four games of the season, Rice will still be under pressure to show he can once again be the No. 1 receiver. In training camp, Rice showed his explosiveness and ability to get yards after the catch. If he excels in September, the Chiefs could have another hot start. If Rice struggles, Kansas City will have to place much of the passing attack on the shoulders of 35-year-old Travis Kelce. — Nate Taylor
Postdraft ranking: 3
Who’s under the most pressure: Defensive end Joey Bosa
This is a big season for the pass rusher, who signed a one-year, $12.6 million deal with the Bills in the offseason after spending the first nine seasons of his career with the Chargers. Bosa, 30, is on a bit of a prove-it deal after missing a substantial amount of time over the past three seasons due to injuries. If he can stay healthy and put together a strong season, a significant contract could await. — Alaina Getzenberg
Postdraft ranking: 5
Who’s under the most pressure: Tight end Mark Andrews
He is entering the final season of his four-year, $56 million contract after dropping a critical two-point conversion in a 27-25 division round loss to Buffalo. Andrews led all TEs with 11 touchdowns last season, but he averaged 39.6 receiving yards per game in 2024, his worst total since his 2018 rookie season. — Jamison Hensley
Postdraft ranking: 4
Who’s under the most pressure: Quarterback Jared Goff
It appears every season is “make or break” for Goff if he doesn’t lead this team to the Super Bowl. He delivered an MVP-caliber 2024 season, but the Lions fell short in the NFC divisional round against Washington when Goff struggled and finished with four turnovers. Goff and the Lions will try to put last year’s playoff dud behind them. As the face of the team, the veteran QB again has high expectations to keep the momentum growing. — Eric Woodyard
Postdraft ranking: 6
Who’s under the most pressure: Cornerback Marshon Lattimore
Washington traded multiple picks for him at the deadline last season, and a hamstring injury limited Lattimore to two regular-season games (and three in the postseason). He has played in only 26 games the past three seasons combined. Lattimore has looked better this offseason but needs to be durable and productive to earn a contract extension. — John Keim
Postdraft ranking: 8
Who’s under the most pressure: Cornerback Keisean Nixon
He said after last season that he wanted to be a No. 1 CB. Now that Jaire Alexander is gone, Nixon might get that chance. Sure, the Packers signed Nate Hobbs in free agency, and defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley plays a high amount of zone coverage, but Nixon will be counted on to shut down opposing receivers. The question is, can he deliver? — Rob Demovsky
1:38
Stephen A.: Jordan Love needs to step up come playoff time
Stephen A. Smith discusses Jordan Love’s ability as a quarterback and challenges him to show his full potential in playoff games.
Postdraft ranking: 7
Who’s under the most pressure: Cornerback Darious Williams
Williams has two seasons remaining on the three-year, $22.5 million contract he signed in 2024. The veteran cornerback, in his second stint in Los Angeles, is scheduled to count $8.6 million against the cap in 2026 but has no guaranteed money due after this season. The Rams have a young cornerback room and might opt to save money at the position after 2025. — Sarah Barshop
Postdraft ranking: 10
Who’s under the most pressure: Coach Zac Taylor
The Bengals missed the playoffs last season despite career years from QB Joe Burrow, WR Ja’Marr Chase and DE Trey Hendrickson. Taylor has proved to be a coach capable of leading the Bengals to a Super Bowl. It’s time for Cincinnati to show that potential once again. — Ben Baby
Postdraft ranking: 9
Who’s under the most pressure: Vikings’ draft process
After signing general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and coach Kevin O’Connell to contract extensions and assembling a roster of proven veterans, the team doesn’t have anyone prominent on the hot seat. But it might need to overhaul its draft process in 2026 if it doesn’t see more production from recent picks. WR Jordan Addison was the only starter last season who was drafted between 2022 and 2024. The Vikings need big contributions from QB J.J. McCarthy (2024), LB Dallas Turner (2024) and G Donovan Jackson (2025), at least, to validate their current process. — Kevin Seifert
Postdraft ranking: 14
Who’s under the most pressure: Coach Sean Payton
He has rock-solid job security, a deep-pocketed ownership group to support him and a proven personnel department to build a roster. But Payton has been the most vocal throughout training camp about his team’s Super Bowl worthiness. He believes the Broncos are good enough — if they do the work — to play for the Lombardi Trophy. It makes for good conversation now, but he could be at risk if the Broncos have any significant stumbles or injuries in 2025. — Jeff Legwold
Postdraft ranking: 13
Who’s under the most pressure: Linebacker Christian Harris
He is going into the final year of his rookie contract and flashes good potential — he showcased that when he caught a pick-six in the 2023 wild-card win over the Browns. But Harris hasn’t been able to stay healthy, and he also hasn’t practiced in training camp. If that continues, he might be on the outside when 2026 comes around. — DJ Bien-Aime
Postdraft ranking: 12
Who’s under the most pressure: Cornerback Jamel Dean
He counts $15 million against the salary cap in 2025 and nearly $16 million in 2026. The Bucs drafted two cornerbacks in Benjamin Morrison and Jacob Parrish in 2025. Dean has struggled to stay on the field due to injuries, missing 18 games in six seasons, including nine in the past two. — Jenna Laine
Postdraft ranking: 11
Who’s under the most pressure: Offensive coordinator Greg Roman
Roman is known for designing some of the most creative and dominant rushing offenses in league history, but his critics have questioned his playcalling and passing concepts. Roman’s offense didn’t look promising last season. The Chargers consistently sputtered in the second half, ultimately ending the 2024 season in the first round of the playoffs. With upgrades all over Los Angeles’ offense, all eyes will be on Roman’s group to produce in 2025. — Kris Rhim
Postdraft ranking: 15
Who’s under the most pressure: Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk
The trade rumors surrounding Aiyuk started more than two years ago and seem to never dissipate despite his signing a massive contract extension in 2024. Aiyuk is expected to return from his knee injury at some point this season, and his future in San Francisco will likely be determined by how it goes from there. The Niners would have to eat significant money with little return to part ways with him during or after this season, but if he can’t return to health and productivity, they might decide it’s time to move on and reallocate resources. — Nick Wagoner
Postdraft ranking: 17
Who’s under the most pressure: Coach Mike Tomlin
For the second season in a row, Tomlin was the driving force in bringing in a veteran quarterback to lead the franchise. This time, he courted Aaron Rodgers. Tomlin is putting his trust in Rodgers and the rest of his offense that they can expedite the gelling process and produce early in 2025. Realistically, Tomlin, under contract through the 2027 season, isn’t going anywhere no matter the outcome of this season. But the fan base will undoubtedly grow restless if another season passes without a playoff win. — Brooke Pryor
Postdraft ranking: 16
Who’s under the most pressure: Running back Kenneth Walker III
He is among six starters from the Seahawks’ 2022 draft class who are playing for a new contract in 2025, and like many of them, he still has something to prove. When healthy, he’s a tough runner. But Walker has missed 10 games in three seasons and chunks of this offseason with ankle and foot injuries. The ever-reliable Zach Charbonnet has impressed the Seahawks in his absence, giving the organization a pivot if Walker can’t stay healthy and produce in 2025. — Brady Henderson
Postdraft ranking: 19
Who’s under the most pressure: Coach Brian Schottenheimer
Now, this doesn’t mean the coach will be one-and-done at all. It’s just that there is a lot for a first-time coach to deal with for any job but especially with the Cowboys. Schottenheimer has the players buying into his message at the moment, but what happens if they lose a few games in a row? Will they continue to believe? They play in the same division as the two NFC finalists (Eagles and Commanders). They have a difficult schedule to close the season. All of it makes a fast start a must. — Todd Archer
2:18
Why Stephen A. dislikes Jerry Jones’ negotiating tactics
Stephen A. Smith and Damien Woody explain why Jerry Jones’ negotiating tactics aren’t effective in today’s NFL.
Postdraft ranking: 18
Who’s under the most pressure: Tight end Kyle Pitts Sr.
It’s a contract year for Pitts, who is auditioning for big money if he can return to a semblance of his rookie form four seasons ago: 1,026 yards on 68 catches and the first rookie Pro Bowl selection by a tight end since 2002. Pitts’ future with the Falcons and how much he would get as a free agent is dependent on how the 2021 No. 4 pick performs this season. — Marc Raimondi
Postdraft ranking: 20
Who’s under the most pressure: Coach Mike McDaniel
The fourth-year coach has made the playoffs in two of his first three seasons, but Miami still hasn’t won a playoff game in a quarter of a century. Owner Stephen Ross said last season that he was not satisfied with the status quo, and the locker room underwent a self-proclaimed cultural reset this offseason. But with a roster curated for its coach, the onus will fall on McDaniel to succeed. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Postdraft ranking: 21
Who’s under the most pressure: Quarterback Caleb Williams
It’s hard to believe that a second-year quarterback learning a new offense is under the most pressure, but Williams needs to perform well while making weekly strides in mastering coach Ben Johnson’s scheme. The 2024 No. 1 pick likely will experience growing pains, but for a franchise that might have the answer at quarterback after decades of searching, the pressure is on Williams to prove the team right. — Courtney Cronin
Postdraft ranking: 22
Who’s under the most pressure: General manager Monti Ossenfort
Entering his third season with the Cardinals, Ossenfort completed his three-year rebuild of the roster. Now, it’s time for that roster to win. He rebuilt the defensive front but hardly touched the offense, a move that could be risky. If the defense doesn’t live up to expectations or the offense has holes that he could’ve addressed, Ossenfort’s seat will start warming up. — Josh Weinfuss
Postdraft ranking: 23
Who’s under the most pressure: Left tackle Will Campbell and left guard Jared Wilson
The rookies are projected starters. According to ESPN Research and Elias, the Patriots will become the second team in the past 25 years to have two rookies starting on opening day on the left side of the offensive line (the 2016 Ravens are the other team). — Mike Reiss
Postdraft ranking: 25
Who’s under the most pressure: Quarterback Trevor Lawrence
He is entering his fifth season with his third coach. Lawrence has yet to play consistently well over a full season, and injuries marred his past two years. New coach Liam Coen is changing his footwork, and the Jaguars upgraded the interior offensive line and added a playmaker in WR/CB Travis Hunter. Lawrence has the players to help him surge, and the hope is for Coen to do for Lawrence what he did for Baker Mayfield last season. — Mike DiRocco
Postdraft ranking: 26
Who’s under the most pressure: Defensive end Tyree Wilson
The 2023 first-round pick made strides last season with 4.5 sacks and one forced fumble, but it’s time for him to be an integral player in the trenches. With Christian Wilkins no longer on the team, Wilson’s versatility to play defensive line and edge rusher allows him to do so. — Ryan McFadden
Postdraft ranking: 24
Who’s under the most pressure: General manager Chris Ballard
He is entering his ninth season and has just two playoff appearances and one postseason victory. The Colts have never won the AFC South under his guidance. Much of Ballard’s tenure was upended by the sudden retirement of franchise quarterback Andrew Luck in 2019, but the botched QB moves after Luck’s departure have hurt the franchise. Is it playoffs or bust for Ballard? — Stephen Holder
Postdraft ranking: 27
Who’s under the most pressure: Quarterback Bryce Young
The top pick of the 2023 draft has to build off the final three games of last season and produce wins. The Panthers selected elite receiver Tetairoa McMillan in the first round to help Young take the next step, and they didn’t lose a starting offensive lineman in the offseason. Young has to show the organization didn’t make a mistake when it made that memorable trade with Chicago for the No. 1 pick in 2023. Young is 6-22, and more of that won’t cut it. — David Newton
Postdraft ranking: 30
Who’s under the most pressure: Quarterback Justin Fields
This is his third team in three seasons and probably his last real shot to be a long-term starting quarterback. The Jets are all-in on Fields, giving him $30 million guaranteed, but they can go in a different direction after a year. If the 2021 first-round pick fails, he’ll probably be in a Daniel Jones-like situation — having to compete for a job. — Rich Cimini
Postdraft ranking: 32
Who’s under the most pressure: Coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen
The Giants went 6-11 in 2023 and 3-14 last season. Drafting a promising young quarterback in Jaxson Dart is nice, but they must win games. It’s a results-oriented business, and owner John Mara wants to see progress and improved results this season. And that’s a big reason Russell Wilson is the starting quarterback to begin the season. — Jordan Raanan
Postdraft ranking: 29
Who’s under the most pressure: Coach Kevin Stefanski and general manager Andrew Berry
Owner Jimmy Haslam has preached patience and has said he’ll give his coach-GM pairing time to turn things around after a 3-14 season. But Haslam also said the team needs marked improvement in 2025. For the Browns, that means not only fielding a much more competitive team but possibly finding a long-term answer at quarterback. — Daniel Oyefusi
0:44
Does injury derail Shedeur Sanders’ chance at QB1?
Domonique Foxworth weighs in on how an oblique injury could affect Shedeur Sanders’ position on the depth chart.
Postdraft ranking: 28
Who’s under the most pressure: Coach Kellen Moore
The first-year coach has a big task of turning things around and getting the Saints to the playoffs for the first time since 2020. That’s no small feat, especially considering he’ll be starting a young quarterback in either Spencer Rattler or Tyler Shough this season. — Katherine Terrell
Postdraft ranking: 31
Who’s under the most pressure: Coach Brian Callahan
He is known for his work with Joe Burrow, who was the No.1 pick by the Bengals in 2020. The Titans are relying on Callahan to help resurrect their franchise and re-create his previous success with this year’s No.1 pick, Cameron Ward. The past two coaches for teams that selected quarterbacks first didn’t make it to their second season. Will Callahan? — Turron Davenport
Which team in Tier 1 faces teh most pressure regarding their quarterback’s long-term performance and potential decline?
NFL Power Rankings 2025: Teams Facing the Highest Pressure to Perform
The Contenders Under the Microscope: 2025 NFL Season
The 2025 NFL season is poised to be one of the most competitive yet. While several teams are looking strong on paper,a select few find themselves under immense pressure to deliver – weather due to high expectations,significant investments,or recent failures.This article breaks down the teams facing the most scrutiny, analyzing the factors contributing to their pressure and what they need to do to succeed. We’ll cover NFL power rankings implications, key player performance expectations, and potential pitfalls.
Tier 1: Championship or Bust – The Top 3 Most Pressurized Teams
These teams have the talent and resources to contend for a Super Bowl, making anything less than a deep playoff run unacceptable. The stakes are incredibly high for these franchises.
- Kansas City Chiefs: Despite the dynasty’s continued success, the window is arguably closing. Patrick Mahomes isn’t getting any younger, and maintaining dominance in a league designed for parity is a constant battle. The pressure to secure another Super Bowl title while Mahomes is at his peak is immense. Key areas of focus: Offensive line consistency and developing receiving threats beyond Rashee Rice.
- San Francisco 49ers: After multiple near misses, the 49ers are desperate to finally hoist the Lombardi Trophy. Brock Purdy‘s development remains a key question mark, and the team’s reliance on a few key players makes them vulnerable to injury. The NFC Championship is the bare minimum expectation.
- Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow’s return from injury is critical. The Bengals have built a strong roster around him, but his health is paramount. The AFC North is a brutal division, and the pressure to navigate it and make a significant playoff push is substantial. AFC North standings will be closely watched.
Tier 2: Prove it – Teams with Something to Prove
These teams have shown flashes of brilliance but haven’t consistently performed at an elite level. They need to demonstrate they can compete with the league’s best.
- Detroit Lions: The Lions exceeded expectations in 2024,but now the pressure is on to prove it wasn’t a fluke. Maintaining their momentum in the NFC North and making a legitimate playoff run are crucial. Jared Goff needs to continue his strong play, and the defense must remain stout.
- Baltimore Ravens: Lamar Jackson’s contract extension demands results. While the Ravens consistently make the playoffs, they haven’t reached the Super Bowl since 2012. The pressure to break through and contend for a championship is significant. Lamar Jackson’s performance will be a key storyline.
- Los Angeles Chargers: Justin Herbert is a generational talent, but the Chargers have consistently underachieved. A new coaching staff and a revamped roster aim to change that. The pressure to finally translate Herbert’s talent into wins is immense. NFL Draft choices will be under scrutiny.
Tier 3: Rebuild or Re-tool – Teams on the Hot Seat
These teams are either in the midst of a rebuild or need to make significant changes to avoid falling further behind. The pressure here is about demonstrating progress and avoiding complete collapse.
- Chicago Bears: Caleb Williams’ development is the focal point. The Bears invested heavily in him, and his success is vital to the franchise’s future. Patience will be key, but the pressure to see positive signs of growth will be intense. Caleb Williams stats will be heavily analyzed.
- New York Giants: After a disappointing 2024 season, the giants need to show significant improvement. Daniel Jones’ health and performance are critical, and the team needs to address its offensive line issues. The NFL schedule will be a tough test.
- Denver Broncos: Sean Payton’s arrival brought hope, but the Broncos still have a long way to go. Bo Nix’s transition to the NFL will be closely monitored, and the team needs to build a consistent identity. NFL free agency moves will be crucial.
Key Factors Increasing Pressure Across the League
Several overarching trends are amplifying the pressure on teams in 2025:
Increased Salary Cap Constraints: Managing the NFL salary cap effectively is more challenging than ever, forcing teams to make difficult decisions about player contracts and roster construction.
Competitive Parity: The league is remarkably balanced, making it harder to consistently win. Every game is a battle, and upsets are common.
Media Scrutiny: The 24/7 news cycle and the rise of social media amplify the pressure on players and coaches. Every mistake is dissected and analyzed.
Fan Expectations: Passionate fan bases demand success, and the pressure to deliver can be overwhelming.
The Impact of Player Performance & Injury
Individual player performance is, of course, a massive factor. A star quarterback going down with an injury can derail an entire season. Teams with depth and strong backup options are better positioned to withstand adversity. Monitoring NFL injury reports will be crucial for understanding team prospects.
Case Study: the 2024 Philadelphia Eagles
The 2024 Eagles serve as a cautionary tale.After reaching the Super Bowl in 2
