NFL Week 1 Mega Preview: Breaking Down All 16 Games (2025)

5,800 words of picks, predictions, odds, analysis, and news to get you ready for Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season. We dare you to read it all!

by Seth Trachtman - Sep 6, 2025

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) after a first down reception in the second quarter of an NFL game between the Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs on December 21, 2024 at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MO.

Travis Kelce and the Chiefs open the season vs. the Chargers in Brazil. (Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire)

Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season starts Thursday, September 4, with the Dallas Cowboys visiting the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles. Here’s a preview of all 16 Week 1 games, including the latest news, picks, odds, stats, injuries, preseason outlooks, and more.

We dare you to read it all!

Note: All picks and model predictions in this article reflect data as of Monday, September 1, 2025, and are subject to change up to kickoff time. Our models always use the latest available data to predict games, so check the site for the most recent numbers.

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2025 NFL Week 1 Game Menu — Jump To Matchup

Thursday, September 4

Dallas Cowboys @ Philadelphia Eagles

Offseason context: Eagles retained core; Cowboys adjusted along OL/edge.

Betting notes: PHI -7.5; total mid-40s

Model Pick: PHI (77% win odds)

Broadcast: NBC (season opener)

Key injuries/absences: DAL: LT Tyler Guyton (knee) has missed training camp; G Robert Jones (neck) is on IR; LB DeMarvion Overshown (ACL) is on the PUP list; several CBs have missed time in camp. PHI: OG Landon Dickerson is questionable for Week 1 following knee surgery; WR A.J. Brown has been nursing a hamstring injury; LB Nakobe Dean was moved to the PUP list.

Stats Breakdown (2024): Philadelphia profiled as a top-10 offense by Points Per Game and Yards Per Play, paired with a top-tier defense by Opponent Points Per Game and Opponent Yards Per Play. Dallas landed closer to league-average on offense (PPG/YPP) and below average on defense (Opp PPG/Opp YPP).

Team Predictions: Philadelphia — Win Division: 55% | Playoffs: 73% | Super Bowl: 10%. Dallas — Win Division: 12% | Playoffs: 28.0% | Super Bowl: 1.0%. (TR Projections)

News & Notes

Dallas Cowboys

The 2025 NFL season kicks off with a rivalry game between the Cowboys and the defending Super Bowl champion Eagles. Cowboys training camp was overshadowed by the absence of star pass rusher Micah Parsons, who was traded to Green Bay on August 28. The Cowboys’ defense will now have to adjust without their superstar pass rusher, but they did receive experienced DL Kenny Clark in return. Meanwhile, the Dallas offense looks strong on paper with the addition of WR George Pickens and RB Javonte Williams, along with a healthy QB Dak Prescott. The offensive line is a big question mark, however, with LT Tyler Guyton battling an injury and rookie RG Tyler Booker getting his feet wet.

Philadelphia Eagles

The key pieces are back for the Super Bowl champs, including a bevy of offensive stars that include QB Jalen Hurts, RB Saquon Barkley, WR A.J. Brown, and WR DeVonta Smith. There’s some concern regarding the offensive line if OG Landon Dickerson isn’t available following knee surgery. The defense is also significantly younger after losing the likes of Milton Williams, Josh Sweat, Darius Slay, and C.J. Gardner-Johnson from their elite Super Bowl defense.

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Friday, September 5

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Los Angeles Chargers (São Paulo)

Offseason context: Chiefs continuity; Chargers added playmakers.

Betting notes: KC -3.0; total low–mid 40s

Model Pick: KC (60% win odds)

Broadcast: YouTube (international)

Key injuries/absences: KC: WR Rashee Rice suspended for the first six games; Former first-round DE Felix Anudike-Uzomah (hamstring) is out for the year. LAC: LT Rashawn Slater was placed on IR after knee surgery. RB Najee Harris (eye) has missed time in training camp.

Stats Breakdown (2024): Kansas City graded as an above-average offense (top half in PPG/YPP) with a defense also ranking top-10 by Opp PPG. Los Angeles was similar offensively (top-half PPG/YPP) and flashed elite results on defense by Opp PPG and Opp YPP.

Team Predictions: Kansas City — Win Division: 49% | Playoffs: 75% | Super Bowl: 9%. LA Chargers — Win Division: 21% | Playoffs: 50% | Super Bowl: 2%. (TR Projections)

News & Notes

Kansas City Chiefs

It’s hard to top the big news of TE Travis Kelce’s engagement to music superstar Taylor Swift, but the Chiefs’ offseason also included a revamp of the team’s offensive line led by rookie LT Josh Simmons. The offense takes an early hit with the absence of WR Rashee Rice, but QB Patrick Mahomes has plenty of weapons left with a healthy RB Isaiah Pacheco, WR Xavier Worthy, WR Hollywood Brown, and Kelce. The defense also returns its impact players, with the notable exceptions of DT Tershawn Wharton and S Justin Reid.

Los Angeles Chargers

The Chargers took a big offensive hit of their own by losing LT Rashawn Slater to injury, but the skill positions are improved. QB Justin Herbert has rookie RB Omarion Hampton and the return of WR Keenan Allen, along with WR Ladd McConkey and rookie WR Tre Harris. The defense finally moved on from oft-injured DE Joey Bosa, but still has future Hall of Famer OLB Khalil Mack and S Derwin James.

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Sunday, September 7 — Early Afternoon (1:00 ET)

Pittsburgh Steelers @ New York Jets

Offseason context: PIT added at QB/CB; NYJ reshaped offense.

Betting notes: PIT -2.5; total high-30s

Model Pick: PIT (56% win odds)

Broadcast: CBS

Key injuries/absences: PIT: Typical camp maintenance for front-seven; WR Calvin Austin (abdomen) missed time in the preseason. NYJ: Skill group largely intact, though WRs Allen Lazard (shoulder) and Xavier Gipson (shoulder) missed time in the preseason.

Stats Breakdown (2024): Pittsburgh’s offense sat in the lower half by PPG/YPP, but their defense was top-10 by Opp PPG. The Jets mirrored that defense-first profile (top-10 by Opp PPG/Opp YPP) while the offense trailed league average in scoring.

Team Predictions: Pittsburgh — Win Division: 16% | Playoffs: 42% | Super Bowl: 2%. NY Jets — Win Division: 4% | Playoffs: 14% | Super Bowl: 0.2%. (TR Projections)

News & Notes

Pittsburgh Steelers

If there was ever a team that was all-in for one season, it’s the 2025 Steelers. They added multiple players in the last leg of their careers, including QB Aaron Rodgers, CB Darius Slay, and CB Jalen Ramsey, providing hope for fans that the team can get over the hump of the Wild Card Round, where their season has ended in four of the last five seasons. The team also made big changes to its offensive weapons, drafting RB Kaleb Johnson after the departure of Najee Harris and adding former Seahawks star WR DK Metcalf before trading George Pickens. Rodgers happens to be visiting New York, where he played the last two years.

New York Jets 

The Jets signed QB Justin Fields to lead the team, and he doesn’t have to wait to face the team that rostered him last year, either. He hopes to get New York’s formidable offensive weapons to click, including RB Breece Hall and WR Garrett Wilson. The team also spent its top two draft choices on offense with RT Armand Membou and TE Mason Taylor. New York has a fair share of recognizable names on defense, including DE Will McDonald IV, DT Quinnen Williams, LB Quincy Williams, and CB Sauce Gardner, and has added former Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn to run the show as head coach after Robert Saleh’s ouster.

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Atlanta Falcons

Offseason context: TB steady; ATL building around new core.

Betting notes: TB -2.5; total upper-40s

Model Pick: TB (58% win odds)

Broadcast: FOX

Key injuries/absences: TB: TE Cade Otton’s (leg) status is in question; WR Chris Godwin is recovering from an ankle, while LT Tristan Wirfs is recovering from knee surgery. ATL: WR group has dealt with minor camp issues, including Darnell Mooney (shoulder); OT Kaleb McGary will miss the season.

Stats Breakdown (2024): Tampa Bay hovered around league-average on offense by PPG and YPP, with a defense that landed near the middle by Opp PPG. Atlanta’s offense showed flashes (mid-table PPG/YPP), while the defense trended below average by Opp PPG/Opp YPP.

Team Predictions: Tampa Bay — Win Division: 49% | Playoffs: 61% | Super Bowl: 3%. Atlanta — Win Division: 31% | Playoffs: 45% | Super Bowl: 2%. (TR Projections)

News & Notes

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Another year, another offensive coordinator for the Bucs, who have now employed four coordinators in four years following Liam Coen’s departure. OC Josh Grizzard calls plays for a unit that exceeded expectations last season, and has added rookie WR Emeka Egbuka. However, QB Baker Mayfield could be without TE Cade Otton, LT Tristan Wirfs, and WR Chris Godwin to start the season. The defense bought low on EDGE Haason Reddick after a down year, and still has dominant NT Vita Vea anchoring the unit. The secondary has some new faces, but hopes for a healthier season from S Antoine Winfield Jr.

Atlanta Falcons

It’s QB Michael Penix’s show after starting the last three games last season. Some bumps are expected, but he has the support of a capable arsenal, including RB Bijan Robinson, WR Drake London, WR Darnell Mooney, and TE Kyle Pitts. Atlanta’s pass rush couldn’t find the quarterback last season (31st in sack rate), a trend they hope to remedy after drafting pass rushers Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. in the first round, plus the addition of veteran DE Leonard Floyd. The secondary is a strength, especially if rookie S Xavier Watts can help CB A.J. Terrell and S Jessie Bates.

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Miami Dolphins @ Indianapolis Colts

Offseason context: MIA added OL/skill depth; IND bolstered secondary.

Betting notes: IND -1.5; total mid-40s

Model Pick: IND (53% win odds)

Broadcast: CBS

Key injuries/absences: MIA: S Ashtyn Davis (Achilles) will miss time; WR Tyreek Hill (oblique) missed time late in camp; PK Jason Sanders (hip) will miss the first four games; OL depth shuffling due to camp dings. IND: QB/RB group healthy; secondary dealing with typical camp maintenance; DT DeForest Buckner (back) missed some practice.

Stats Breakdown (2024): Miami’s offense rated top-10 by PPG and YPP, while the defense settled mid-pack by Opp PPG. Indianapolis was steadier on defense (top-half Opp PPG/Opp YPP) with a middle-tier offense.

Team Predictions: Miami — Win Division: 8% | Playoffs: 25% | Super Bowl: 0.5%. Indianapolis — Win Division: 17% | Playoffs: 28% | Super Bowl: 0.6%. (TR Projections)

News & Notes

Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins’ offense disappointed last season after finishing near the top of the league in 2023. The pressure is on HC Mike McDaniel as well as QB Tua Tagovailoa, WR Tyreek Hill, and WR Jaylen Waddle. They’ve shored up the offensive line interior by signing OG James Daniels and drafting OG Jonah Savaiinaea, while TE Darren Waller was brought out of retirement. The defense is decidedly younger, losing the likes of Calais Campbell, Anthony Walker, Jalen Ramsey, and Jordan Poyer, but adding CB Rasul Douglas, S Minkah Fitzpatrick, and first-round DE Kenneth Grant.

Indianapolis Colts

It remains to be seen if the Anthony Richardson era is officially over in Indy, but QB Daniel Jones is set to start in Week 1. The former Giants first-round pick has an important opportunity, with HC Shane Steichen against the wall entering his third season. RB Jonathan Taylor remains the centerpiece of the offense when he’s healthy, and the wideout trio of Michael Pittman Jr, Alec Pierce, and Josh Downs has each shown flashes in their brief NFL careers. The interior of the offensive line, once an overwhelming strength, has seen changes in the offseason. The Colts’ defense has some continuity and is potentially improved on the backend following the additions of big-money defensive backs Charvarius Ward and Camryn Bynum.

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Las Vegas Raiders @ New England Patriots

Offseason context: LV coaching reset; NE added WR/edge impact.

Betting notes: NE -2.5; total low-40s

Model Pick: NE (55% win odds)

Broadcast: CBS

Key injuries/absences: LV: Secondary depth (CB) has rotated with camp injuries; QB Kenny Pickett was acquired after Aidan O’Connell (wrist) was lost for 6-8 weeks. NE: WR Ja’Lynn Polk (shoulder) was placed on IR; WR Stefon Diggs is returning from ACL surgery; the CB room thinned by minor issues; watch status into game week.

Stats Breakdown (2024): Las Vegas hovered around the middle offensively (PPG/YPP) with a defense that slipped below league average by Opp PPG. New England’s defense graded better than its offense (defense nearer mid-table; offense bottom-third PPG), suggesting a slower-tempo, field-position game.

Team Predictions: Las Vegas — Win Division: 6% | Playoffs: 22% | Super Bowl: 0.4%. New England — Win Division: 16% | Playoffs: 42% | Super Bowl: 1%. (TR Projections)

News & Notes

Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders made a big splash in the offseason as they try to get out of the AFC West cellar, hiring HC Pete Carroll and bringing over QB Geno Smith. There’s just as much excitement surrounding the addition of former Boise State star RB Ashton Jeanty, adding to 2024 rookie star TE Brock Bowers. There were some big changes on the backend of the defense, where Carroll has shown his mastery in development over the years. The team lost CB Nate Hobbs but signed veterans Eric Stokes and Jeremy Chinn.

New England Patriots

The Patriots are also excited about their new head coach, hiring former Titans HC Mike Vrabel after a one-year hiatus. The former Patriots linebacker has an exciting, young team to work with, led by second-year QB Drake Maye. New England brought in multiple weapons to help the young quarterback, including rookie RB TreVeyon Henderson and WR Stefon Diggs. Just as important is the revamped offensive line, with four new starters led by first-round LT Will Campbell. The defense gets DT Christian Barmore back from a lost season due to health issues, and also spent big money on DL Milton Williams and EDGE Harold Landry to help the pass rush. The secondary also gets a spark with CB Carlton Davis joining young standout Christian Gonzalez.

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Arizona Cardinals @ New Orleans Saints

Offseason context: ARI boosted DL/QB support; NO tweaked OL.

Betting notes: ARI -6.5; total low-40s

Model Pick: ARI (75% win odds)

Broadcast: CBS

Key injuries/absences: ARI: The defensive line is banged up, with Bilal Nichols, BJ Ojulari, and Walter Nolen III on the PUP list. NO: TEs Taysom Hill and Foster Moreau were placed on the PUP list; OT Trevor Penning is battling a foot injury.

Stats Breakdown (2024): Arizona’s offense settled mid-pack by PPG with efficiency volatility (YPP), while the defense trended bottom-half by Opp PPG. New Orleans leaned defense (top-half Opp PPG/Opp YPP) with an offense near league average.

Team Predictions: Arizona — Win Division: 18% | Playoffs: 40% | Super Bowl: 2%. New Orleans — Win Division: 5% | Playoffs: 9% | Super Bowl: 0.1%. (TR Projections)

News & Notes

Arizona Cardinals

The Cardinals are coming off their third straight losing season, but made progress in 2024 at 8-9. They expect a jump from the offense after WR Marvin Harrison Jr. got a year under his belt to work with QB Kyler Murray, plus the addition of WR Zay Jones. TE Trey McBride is also a budding star, as fantasy football managers have found out. The defense returns DE Calais Campbell at long last after eight seasons away, and also added DT Dalvin Tomlinson and EDGE Josh Sweat to help the pass rush. The linebackers got a notable pickup with former Bengal LB Akeem Davis-Gaither, and second-round CB Will Johnson gives the secondary more upside next to S Budda Baker.

New Orleans Saints

The first season of Kellen Moore’s head coaching career is looking tough with a shaky quarterback situation and a defense that’s aging. They named Spencer Rattler the starter in Week 1 despite drafting Tyler Shough in the second round. The team drafted LT Kelvin Banks Jr. in the first round and has some proven veteran weapons like RB Alvin Kamara, WR Chris Olave, and TE Juwan Johnson. Former Patriot DE Davon Godchaux adds a presence to the defensive line, with DE Chase Young and DT Bryan Bresee being the names that opposing teams circle. MLB Demario Davis remains productive at age 36, and S Justin Reid was added to replace the departed Tyrann Mathieu. The team also made under-the-radar signings in CB Isaac Yiadom and S Julian Blackmon, who could play prominent roles as starters.

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New York Giants @ Washington Commanders

Offseason context: NYG added veteran QB/CB; WAS added star WR/OT.

Betting notes: WAS -6.0; total mid-40s

Model Pick: WAS (66% win odds)

Broadcast: FOX

Key injuries/absences: NYG: WR Malik Nabers expected to be ready despite toe/back tightness in August. WAS: Mostly healthy; continue to monitor late-camp OL injuries.

Stats Breakdown (2024): The Giants lagged in PPG and YPP (bottom-third), with a defense that allowed above-average scoring. Washington’s offense landed mid-table while the defense was closer to average by Opp PPG, setting up a favorable defensive matchup for the Commanders.

Team Predictions: NY Giants — Win Division: 4% | Playoffs: 9% | Super Bowl: 0.2%. Washington — Win Division: 29% | Playoffs: 53% | Super Bowl: 4%. (TR Projections)

News & Notes

New York Giants

There’s been some preseason buzz regarding first-round QB Jaxson Dart, but Russell Wilson appears to be the starter heading into Week 1. He will be looking over his shoulder, but has a strong set of weapons that includes RB Tyrone Tracy Jr., WRs Malik Nabers, Darius Slayton, and Wan’Dale Robinson. The rich get richer with a powerful front seven, with rookie EDGE Abdul Carter and signing EDGE Chauncey Golston after acquiring Brian Burns last offseason. The team also spent big money in the secondary, signing CB Paulson Adebo and S Jevon Holland.

Washington Commanders

Washington was one of the biggest surprises of 2024 in large part due to the play of rookie QB Jayden Daniels. He’s relieved to have WR Terry McLaurin back after a camp holdout, and the team also acquired WR Deebo Samuel. Arguably, the bigger moves were the changes at tackle, acquiring veteran LT Laremy Tunsil and drafting RT Josh Conerly Jr. in the first round. The trade of RB Brian Robinson opens the door for rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt to shine. The defense showed rapid improvement last season under new HC Dan Quinn, and has worked to ensure further progress with more high-profile additions. DT Javon Kinlaw was the big-money addition, while EDGE Von Miller was the big name. The secondary also features two new starters with rookie CB Trey Amos and veteran S Will Harris.

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Carolina Panthers @ Jacksonville Jaguars

Offseason context: CAR added rookie WR/defense; JAX continuity.

Betting notes: JAX -3.0; total mid-40s

Model Pick: JAX (60% win odds)

Broadcast: FOX

Key injuries/absences: CAR: LB depth has missed time in camp. JAX: Minor nicks across secondary; starting group expected largely intact.

Stats Breakdown (2024): Carolina struggled to score (bottom-third PPG) and create explosives (YPP) while the defense allowed above-average points. Jacksonville delivered a top-half offense with mid-table defensive results (Opp PPG/Opp YPP), creating a stylistic edge for the Jaguars.

Team Predictions: Carolina — Win Division: 15% | Playoffs: 25% | Super Bowl: 0.4%. Jacksonville — Win Division: 28% | Playoffs: 42% | Super Bowl: 1%. (TR Projections)

News & Notes

Carolina Panthers

QB Bryce Young made progress during the second half of last season under HC Dave Canales, and the team hopes they’ve found his long-term weapons with rookies Tetairoa McMillan and Jimmy Horn Jr. added to Xavier Legette and Jalen Coker. RB Chuba Hubbard also has more relief with Rico Dowdle and rookie Trevor Etienne. Carolina wasn’t shy about spending on the defensive line, with DLs Tershawn Wharton, Patrick Jones II, and Bobby Brown III. They also welcome the return of Derrick Brown after a lost season due to injury. Extending star CB Jaycee Horn was notable, and the team signed S Tre’von Moehrig to help a defense that clearly has more to work with than last season.

Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jags sure hope new HC Liam Coen is the answer to help QB Trevor Lawrence to elite status after Doug Pederson failed. The team made multiple offensive line additions, as well, plus they signed WR Dyami Brown and drafted WR/CB Travis Hunter second overall to join 2024 breakout rookie Brian Thomas. Jacksonville also spent on defense, adding EDGE Emmanuel Ogbah, CB Jourdan Lewis, and S Eric Murray. The hope is that Jacksonville can take the lead early more often, helping the production of edge rusher tandem Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker.

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Cincinnati Bengals @ Cleveland Browns

Offseason context: CIN retained key WRs; CLE added vet pieces.

Betting notes: CIN -5.5; total mid-40s

Model Pick: CIN (64% win odds)

Broadcast: FOX

Key injuries/absences: CIN: TE Mike Gesicki (hamstring) missed time in camp. CLE: CB/LB depth questions persist from camp; monitor final injury report.

Stats Breakdown (2024): Cincinnati’s offense graded in the top half by PPG with efficiency that improved late (YPP), while the defense was around league average. Cleveland leaned on a defense that rated in the top half by Opp PPG, with an offense near the middle.

Team Predictions: Cincinnati — Win Division: 25% | Playoffs: 55% | Super Bowl: 4%. Cleveland — Win Division: 2% | Playoffs: 8% | Super Bowl: 0.1%. (TR Projections)

News & Notes

Cincinnati Bengals

Slow starts have been a theme for the Bengals in the last three seasons, so a Week 1 matchup against the rebuilding Browns could be a relief. The team had less uncertainty on offense during the offseason, with the WR duo of Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins signed to extensions early. That should be music to QB Joe Burrow’s ears, and the Bengals have third-down RB Samaje Perine back to support young starter Chase Brown. The defense underwent a facelift after the firing of DC Lou Anarumo, bringing Al Golden from the college ranks. The job would have been more difficult if Cincinnati hadn’t been able to end DE Trey Hendrickson’s training camp holdout. There’s been some turnover on all three levels of the defense after recent regression, with pressure on rookies DE Shemar Stewart and LB Demetrius Knight to contribute.

Cleveland Browns

After moving on from Deshaun Watson, it’s fair to say this is a rebuilding year for Cleveland. 40-year-old QB Joe Flacco is set to start in Week 1, while most expect rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders to contribute in 2025. The backfield is a bit of a mess with Jerome Ford signing late and two rookies behind him. Cleveland brings some notable fantasy options in spite of the quarterback issues, with WR Jerry Jeudy and TE David Njoku. DE Myles Garrett signed a massive extension in the offseason shortly after a trade request, and the interior of the defensive line was strengthened with DT Maliek Collins and first-round pick Mason Graham. Big things are expected from second-rounder LB Carson Schwesinger.

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Sunday, September 7 — Late Afternoon

San Francisco 49ers @ Seattle Seahawks

Offseason context: SF core intact; SEA added veteran WR help.

Betting notes: SF -2.5; total mid-40s

Model Pick: SF (56% win odds)

Broadcast: FOX

Key injuries/absences: SF: WR Brandon Aiyuk (knee) is out, WR Jauan Jennings (calf) is questionable, and WR DeMarcus Robinson is suspended for 3 games; S Malik Mustapha (knee) was placed on the PUP list. SEA: Secondary has rotated heavily due to camp dings; WR Jake Bobo (concussion) has missed time recently.

Stats Breakdown (2024): San Francisco combined top-tier offensive efficiency (PPG/YPP) with a defense that was top-10 by Opp PPG. Seattle’s offense landed mid-table and the defense allowed above-average yardage (Opp YPP).

Team Predictions: San Francisco — Win Division: 37% | Playoffs: 63% | Super Bowl: 4%. Seattle — Win Division: 16% | Playoffs: 37% | Super Bowl: 1%. (TR Projections)

News & Notes

San Francisco 49ers

Without the benefit of a rookie contract at quarterback, San Francisco had some tough decisions to make in the offseason. QB Brock Purdy has a nicer bank account, but the task on the field looks tougher after the team lost Deebo Samuel, Aaron Banks, Maliek Collins, Javon Hargrave, Leonard Floyd, Dre Greenlaw, Charvarius Ward, Talanoa Hufanga, and others. The 49ers also start the year without WR Brandon Aiyuk. Fortunately, WR Ricky Pearsall and RB Christian McCaffrey will be on the field. Former DC Robert Saleh is also back running the defense, and will count on stars DE Nick Bosa and LB Fred Warner.

Seattle Seahawks

After a surprising career turnaround in Minnesota last season, QB Sam Darnold cashed in with Seattle. Interestingly, he will be without long-time Seahawks WR pair D.K. Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, but the team added WR Cooper Kupp to Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Seattle also spent their first-round pick on OG Grey Zabel and brought on former Cowboys star EDGE DeMarcus Lawrence. The secondary remains very young and deep, led by CBs Devon Witherspoon and Riq Woolen.

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Tennessee Titans @ Denver Broncos

Offseason context: DEN added impact defenders/TE; TEN modest changes.

Betting notes: DEN -8.0; total low-40s

Model Pick: DEN (77% win odds)

Broadcast: FOX

Key injuries/absences: TEN: WR availability watch after camp maintenance days; RB Tyjae Spears placed on IR; QB Will Levis (shoulder) will miss the year. DEN: FB Michael Burton was placed on the IR

Stats Breakdown (2024): Tennessee’s offense finished in the bottom third in PPG/YPP, while the defense allowed above-average points. Denver’s defense trended top-half by Opp PPG with an offense near the middle.

Team Predictions: Tennessee — Win Division: 11% | Playoffs: 19% | Super Bowl: 0.2%. Denver — Win Division: 24% | Playoffs: 55% | Super Bowl: 3%. (TR Projections)

News & Notes

Tennessee Titans

Tennessee spent the first overall pick on QB Cam Ward. The nights can be long for rookie quarterbacks, but the team did well to surround him with talent, including two new offensive linemen and the WR duo of Van Jefferson and Tyler Lockett, joining Calvin Ridley. There’s been a recent exodus of talent on defense, but DT Jeffery Simmons remains the key player up front. Tennessee signed LBs Dre’Mont Jones and Cody Barton and also brought in veteran S Xavier Woods.

Denver Broncos

QB Bo Nix hit the ground running last season, and the defense’s performance also made Sean Payton’s rebuild much shorter than anticipated. Denver hopes they’ve added enough talent to challenge the Chiefs and Chargers in the AFC West, adding TE Evan Engram, LB Dre Greenlaw, and S Talanoa Hufanga. Rookie RB RJ Harvey is expected to have a prominent role alongside newcomer J.K. Dobbins, and rookie DB Jahdae Barron helps complete a secondary that was already strong with star CB Pat Surtain II.

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Detroit Lions @ Green Bay Packers

Offseason context: DET added CB help; GB added WR speed/OL depth.

Betting notes: GB -2.5; total high-40s

Model Pick: GB (56% win odds)

Broadcast: CBS

Key injuries/absences: DET: Secondary/CB room has minor camp issues; DT Alim McNeill (knee) was placed on the PUP list; CB Ennis Rakestraw was placed on IR. GB: QB Jordan Love (left thumb surgery) returned to practice and should be fine for Week 1; WR Jayden Reed’s (foot) status is up in the air to start the season; RB Marshawn Lloyd was placed on IR; CB Nate Hobbs underwent minor knee surgery in early August.

Stats Breakdown (2024): Detroit delivered a top-10 offense (PPG/YPP) with a defense closer to average by Opp PPG. Green Bay tracked similarly on offense (top-half PPG/YPP) but allowed more yards per snap than league average (Opp YPP).

Team Predictions: Detroit — Win Division: 35% | Playoffs: 63% | Super Bowl: 7%. Green Bay — Win Division: 32% | Playoffs: 59% | Super Bowl: 5%. (TR Projections)

News & Notes

Detroit Lions

A spectacular regular season in 2024 ended in disappointment for the Lions with a shocking Divisional Round loss. The negative momentum continued into the offseason with the Lions losing both their offensive and defensive coordinators, and the interior of the offensive line has also seen a change. The key personnel pieces remain intact, with QB Jared Goff, RBs Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, WRs Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, and TE Sam LaPorta. Improving the front seven was at the top of the priority list after the Lions were exposed last season when DE Aidan Hutchinson went down. The biggest signs of that effort are veteran LB Derrick Barnes and first-round DT Tyleik Williams. The team also signed CBs D.J. Reed, Avonte Maddox, and Rock Ya-Sin following the loss of Carlton Davis.

Green Bay Packers

The Packers roster saw incremental changes in the offseason until they acquired star pass rusher Micah Parsons from Dallas on August 28. He immediately provides a boost to the defense, though it might take time for him to get into playing shape after sitting out training camp. The team spent big on OG Aaron Banks and drafted WR Matthew Golden in the first round. Golden is already creating buzz, adding to young wideouts Jayden Reed and Romeo Doubs. RB Josh Jacobs also hopes to build on a successful first season with the team. The defense has continuity but moved on from the oft-injured Jaire Alexander in favor of CB Nate Hobbs.

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Houston Texans @ Los Angeles Rams

Offseason context: HOU added a star RB; LAR added an elite WR.

Betting notes: LAR -2.5; total mid-40s

Model Pick: LAR (52% win odds)

Broadcast: CBS

Key injuries/absences: HOU: RB Joe Mixon’s (foot) status is unclear; WR Tank Dell (knee) is starting the season on the PUP list; S Jimmie Ward is on the Commissioner Exempt List. LAR: QB Matthew Stafford returned to practice after back tightness.

Stats Breakdown (2024): Houston surged offensively into the top-half by PPG/YPP, with a defense around league average. The Rams paired a top-half offense with a defense that allowed more yardage per snap than average (Opp YPP).

Team Predictions: Houston — Win Division: 43% | Playoffs: 57% | Super Bowl: 3%. LA Rams — Win Division: 28% | Playoffs: 54% | Super Bowl: 3%. (TR Projections)

News & Notes

Houston Texans

The narrative surrounding QB C.J. Stroud changed quickly following his rookie season, with the Texans’ offensive line unable to protect him last year. They have multiple new starters, led by second-round pick LT Aireontae Ersery. The running back situation sounds iffy as Joe Mixon battles injury, but there’s a wealth of experience behind him, led by RB Nick Chubb. WR Christian Kirk and a pair of rookies join Nico Collins, while TE Dalton Schultz is a proven, capable receiver. Last year’s addition of DE Danielle Hunter was critical for the pass rush, joining young star DE Will Anderson Jr. The team added DT Sheldon Rankins this offseason and has also added S C.J. Gardner-Johnson to the backend.

Los Angeles Rams

Despite some doubts early in the offseason, the Rams opted for at least one last dance with QB Matthew Stafford. A back injury has limited his training camp snaps and brings some big questions entering 2025. The Rams replaced Cooper Kupp with WR Davante Adams, while Puka Nacua is also healthy. The defense survived without Aaron Donald last season, in large part due to strong seasons from rookies Jared Verse and Braden Fiske. The team signed NT Poona Ford to an already strong front seven with DT Kobie Turner and OLB Byron Young.

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Sunday Night Football

Baltimore Ravens @ Buffalo Bills (8:20 ET)

Offseason context: BAL continuity; BUF added pass rush/WR depth.

Betting notes: BUF PK; highest Week 1 total range

Model Pick: BUF (52% win odds)

Broadcast: NBC

Key injuries/absences: BAL: TE Isaiah Likely has been out with a foot injury; CB Jaire Alexander (knee) has missed practice time. BUF: WR Khalil Shakir (ankle), WR Curtis Samuel (hamstring), and LB Terrel Bernard (hamstring) have been limited; several DBs were listed as questionable in mid-August camp updates.

Stats Breakdown (2024): Baltimore ranked top-10 in PPG and top-10 by Opp PPG, one of the league’s most balanced profiles. Buffalo matched with a top-half offense (PPG/YPP) and a defense in the top-10 by Opp PPG.

Team Predictions: Baltimore — Win Division: 57% | Playoffs: 80% | Super Bowl: 12%. Buffalo — Win Division: 72% | Playoffs: 87% | Super Bowl: 14%. (TR Projections)

News & Notes

Baltimore Ravens

Baltimore’s offense looked unstoppable at times when QB Lamar Jackson and RB Derrick Henry were humming, yet the team fell short in the playoffs again. The team was able to add veteran WR DeAndre Hopkins to Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman, and the past investments on the offensive line have proven worthwhile. The defense didn’t see many changes, but the secondary has a chance to be even better after signing CB Jaire Alexander and signing S Malaki Starks to join stars Nate Wiggins, Marlon Humphrey, and Kyle Hamilton. Star MLB Roquan Smith is hoping to continue his streak of three straight All-Pro seasons.

Buffalo Bills

Buffalo is in a very similar situation to Baltimore, with continued regular-season success that has fallen short in recent playoffs. The offense is mostly the same, led by QB Josh Allen and RB James Cook. The team extended defensive stars DE Greg Rousseau, LB Terrel Bernard, and CB Christian Benford, but also added proven veterans DE Joey Bosa and CB Tre’Davious White.

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Monday, September 8 — Monday Night Football (8:15 ET)

Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears

Offseason context: MIN continuity; CHI hopeful in new coaching staff.

Betting notes: MIN -1.5; total mid-40s

Model Pick: CHI (53% win odds)

Broadcast: ESPN/ABC

Key injuries/absences: MIN: WR Jordan Addison will miss the first 3 games due to suspension; WR Tai Felton (arm) has missed preseason time; WR Rondale Moore (knee) was placed on IR. CHI: CB Jaylon Johnson (leg) has missed time; LB Tremaine Edmunds has a soft tissue injury.

Stats Breakdown (2024): Minnesota’s offense landed mid-table by PPG and YPP, while the defense allowed above-average scoring. Chicago improved defensively into the top-half by Opp PPG, with an offense near league average.

Team Predictions: Minnesota — Win Division: 20% | Playoffs: 45% | Super Bowl: 3%. Chicago — Win Division: 13% | Playoffs: 34% | Super Bowl: 2%. (TR Projections)

News & Notes

Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings were one of the biggest surprises of 2024, winning 14 games during the regular season with QB Sam Darnold. They turn to 2024 first-round pick QB J.J. McCarthy, back from knee surgery. He will be without suspended WR Jordan Addison to begin the season, but still has RB Aaron Jones, WR Justin Jefferson, and TE T.J. Hockenson, plus the recent addition of WR Adam Thielen. Minnesota also revamped its offensive line interior with three new starters, including first-round pick Donovan Jackson. The defensive spending was massive in the offseason, with the Vikings taking advantage of a low-salaried quarterback, signing DTs Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave. They should help the productive pass-rush pairing of Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel in DC Brian Flores’ defense. The team also added new CBs Isaiah Rodgers and Jeff Okudah, while veteran S Harrison Smith returns for his 14th season.

Chicago Bears

It’s been a while since Bears fans were this excited, with former Lions OC Ben Johnson to the rescue after some recent coaching debacles in the Windy City. He’s tasked with developing QB Caleb Williams. Fixing the offensive line was a priority with a new interior led by OG Joe Thuney. The team used their first-round pick on TE Colston Loveland, adding to WRs D.J. Moore and Rome Odunze. The defensive line also got a boost with DE Dayo Odeyingbo and DT Grady Jarrett, and the team was able to hire former Saints head coach and accomplished DC Dennis Allen.

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