Heading into this season, the SanFrancisco 49ers will be looking for revenge, redemption, and an improved defensive line. Offensively, the 49ers are strong coming into this season, with quarterback Brock Purdy signing a 5 year contract with and further solidifying his influence within the team as a key asset to the offense. However, they have taken a gamble in the offseason. On March 12th, they confirmed the trade with the Washington Commanders, relinquishing long-time wide receiver Deebo Samuel and gaining fifth-round pick Jordan James in the 2025 NFL Draft. The 49ers’ defense has undergone a major overhaul heading into the 2025 season: losing key veterans like Leonard Floyd, Maliek Collins, and Javon Hargrave, bringing in rookies Mykel Williams, Alfred Collins, and CJ West, and trading for Bryce Huff. That’s a lot of fresh faces, and while Nick Bosa still anchors the pass rush, the rest of the unit is unproven. Ultimately, if the rookies rise to the challenge and veterans like Bosa and Warner can lead the charge, this could be a season defined not by setbacks but by redemption and evolution.
After a bittersweet season, finishing third in the NFC West and missing the playoffs for the third year straight, the Cardinals were not only aggressive but strategic in their offseason. The Cardinals are in a tricky zone, underrated but unproven. With a fresh wave of rookies such as Cody Simon, Walter Nolen, Will Johnson, Jordan Burch, and Josh Fryar, the upcoming season is filled with potential to prove their grit and spot in the NFC West. Marvin Harrison also has much to prove, as the wide receiver improves his strength and relationship with Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray. This could be a breakaway year for Harrison as he steps into his role as a true WR1. The Cardinals are absolutely the wildcard this season, but with a completely revamped defense and rising stars such as Harrison Jr., McBride, and, of course, Kyler Murray, I would not be surprised if they make it far.
The Rams look dangerous and playoff-ready. Again. Coming off of an impressive playoff run from last season, the LA Rams are looking for another opportunity to prove just how young and lethal their team is. In the offseason, the Rams made bold, calculated upgrades to stay in Super Bowl Contention. Davante Adams, Poona Ford, Terrance Ferguson, Jarquez Hunter, Josaiah Stewart, and Ty Hamilton all add young talent and veteran experience to the ever-developing team by focusing on depth and future planning, especially off the defensive end, which will further improve upon the solid but not elite defense of last year. Additionally, the explosive offensive trio of quarterback Matthew Stafford and Wide receivers Davante Adams and Puka Nacua could form one of the most dangerous and balanced passing attacks in the NFC. With a favorable schedule, playoff momentum, and a roster that blends youth with experience, the Rams aren’t just hoping for another postseason run—they’re gearing up to challenge for the NFC crown and possibly the Superbowl.
The Seahawks are entering the 2025 NFL season with a bold new identity, youthful roster, and a whole lot of unanswered questions. Coming off of a 10-7 record that still wasn’t enough to make the playoffs, Seattle completely flipped their offense, trading longtime stars and ushering in a new era under head coach Mike Macdonald. In one of the riskiest moves of the offseason, the Seahawks traded quarterback Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders and Wide Receiver DK Metcalf to the Pittsburgh Steelers. In their place, the Seahawks signed Sam Darnold to a 3-year, $100.5 million deal after coming off a Pro Bowl season with the Vikings.
The Seahawks defense looks to be in the top 10 again heading into their 2nd year under Macdonald. Players are no longer learning—they’re reacting. The defense is faster, more cohesive, and more confident due to returning talent like Leonard Williams, Devon Witherspoon, and Ernest Jones, and rookies with massive potential such as Nick Emmanwori, Rylie Mills, and Jared Ivey. However, the Seahawks’ offense is a wildcard coming into the season with a high-risk, high-reward experiment with lots of moving parts. Sam Darnold had a breakout year with the Vikings in 2024, but that was behind a top-tier O-line. With a new system and a history of inconsistency at Seattle, the offense could sputter. Ultimately, Seattle’s season hinges on whether their offensive gamble pays off. If Darnold can stay sharp and find his rhythm with the young receivers with the loss of Metcalf and Lockett, it could be the year the Seahawks turn potential into performance.
