NFL 2025 Season Preview: The Teams to Watch, Sleeper Picks, and Red Flags
The beauty of the NFL? No two seasons are ever the same.
From worst-to-first surprises to powerhouse dynasties clinging to the top, predicting who will rise and who will fall is never easy. But that’s what makes it fun.
As we gear up for the 2025 season, Touchdown Trips tapped into the insight of Michael McQuaid, NFL expert and founder of Pro Football Ireland, to get his thoughts on the teams poised to make headlines for all the right (and wrong) reasons.
Here are his takes on the Lock-Ins, Climbers, Sleepers, and Red Flags.
The Lock-Ins – Who’s Built to Dominate?
One of the best things about the NFL is its unpredictability. Dynasties are rare, and fairytale playoff runs are becoming the norm. Still, it’s hard to bet against the teams that went deep last season.
You’d expect both 2024 Super Bowl teams, particularly the Eagles and Chiefs, to be in the mix again. While Philadelphia has had a few key departures, including Josh Sweat, Milton Williams, and long-time leader Brandon Graham, they’ve reloaded with smart signings like Azeez Ojulari.
Their division is no cakewalk, though. With Jayden Daniels heading into his second year in Washington, expect the NFC East to get competitive, but the Eagles still have the edge.
Climbing the Ranks – The Broncos Are Back?
It’s hard to ignore the Denver Broncos when talking about teams on the rise.
Sean Payton hasn’t hesitated to hit the reset button. The decision to cut ties with Russell Wilson and hand the reins to Bo Nix marks a bold new era in Denver.
Last year, we saw the foundation being laid: a younger, more composed roster and a promising rookie quarterback adapting well to NFL speed. Nix’s growth, paired with Payton’s leadership, could see this team back in the playoff picture.
Can they go further than last year’s Wild Card loss to Buffalo? Possibly. The AFC West is still a big ask, but the building blocks are there for something special.
Under the Radar – Sleeper Picks with Breakout Potential
We’re doubling down on Denver.
Sure, the Broncos are a trendy pick, but somehow they’re still flying under the radar when it comes to real breakout potential.
Bo Nix plays behind one of the league’s best pass-blocking offensive lines, and this offseason they’ve added real firepower on defence with Dre Greenlaw and Talanoa Hufanga.
This is a team full of underrated talent. If they start strong, don’t be surprised if they go on a deep run.
Red Flags – Trouble Ahead for the Giants?
The New York Giants are walking a tightrope.
This feels like a pivotal year for Brian Daboll and Joe Schoen. They’ve been active, signing Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, and drafting the exciting Jaxson Dart, but it might be too little, too soon.
The biggest hurdle is their schedule. It’s the toughest in the NFL.
They open with two road games in the division (Washington and Dallas), before facing Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs at MetLife in Week 3’s Sunday Night Football. That’s a brutal stretch for a team still trying to find its identity.
We’d love to see them pull off an upset or two, but it’s a long shot.
Final Word
The NFL season is never short of drama, and whether you’re a die-hard fan or planning your first trip to the States to catch a game live, there’s plenty to look forward to.
Want to experience the action up close? From tailgate parties to the best seats in the house, Touchdown Trips can get you there.
Get in touch today: https://touchdowntrips.com/start-planning/
