2025 NFL Season Predictions: Playoffs, Super Bowl Showdown, Draft Order, and Key Player Awards

The 2025 NFL season officially kicks off tomorrow, igniting excitement and speculation across the league as fans and analysts forecast which teams will rise above the competition, which will falter, and who will claim the ultimate prize in Super Bowl LX. Here, we break down the projected playoff teams, predict the contenders for the championship game, outline draft order insights, and highlight players expected to dominate the individual awards.

Projected Playoff Picture

Expect a fiercely competitive postseason with 14 teams earning playoff berths. Early forecasts spotlight strong contenders across both conferences, featuring a blend of perennial powerhouses and emerging challengers.

American Football Conference (AFC)

• Kansas City Chiefs: Despite their narrow miss of a third consecutive Super Bowl title recently, the Chiefs remain elite with Patrick Mahomes at the helm and Andy Reid’s leadership. A deep playoff run looks likely, though their AFC West dominance faces fresh challenges.
• Buffalo Bills: Positioned as one of the favorites to capture their first Super Bowl championship in franchise history, the Bills boast a balanced roster. They are predicted to overcome stiff competition and potentially face the Eagles in the Super Bowl.
• Denver Broncos: A surprise team to watch, the Broncos are expected to dethrone the Chiefs in the AFC West. With a strong defense and a developing offense led by second-year quarterback Bo Nix, Denver clinched the division in simulations and could prove pivotal in postseason scenarios.
• Los Angeles Chargers: Led by Justin Herbert, the Chargers are projected to make the playoffs again after significant roster improvements and a recovering defense. Their offensive consistency is key as they compete in a tough division.
• Jacksonville Jaguars: Poised to reclaim the AFC South, the Jaguars aim to build on recent performances and secure their playoff spot by capitalizing on improvements from last season.

National Football Conference (NFC)

• Philadelphia Eagles: The reigning Super Bowl champions enter 2025 with a challenging schedule, but expectations remain high. Referencing the sentiment “They are the danger,” the Eagles look like the ones to beat as they seek back-to-back titles.
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers: With no major weaknesses and playing in a relatively weak division, the Bucs are seen as strong contenders for the NFC playoffs and a deep postseason run.
• Minnesota Vikings: Betting on quarterback J.J. McCarthy, the Vikings have a robust skill position group, a solid offensive line, and a defense adept at creating turnovers, positioning them well for a playoff appearance.
• Arizona Cardinals: Benefitting from an easier schedule and weaker divisional opponents, the Cardinals could edge out rivals like the Rams, Seahawks, and 49ers to clinch the NFC West title.
• Detroit Lions: While unlikely to replicate last season’s near-perfect record, the Lions are still tipped to secure a playoff berth despite coaching changes and roster adjustments.
• San Francisco 49ers: After a disappointing 2024 season marred by injuries and tough competition, the 49ers are predicted to rebound strong under Robert Saleh’s defensive leadership, aided by a softer 2025 schedule.
• New Orleans Saints: Showing promise, the Saints could capitalize on the playoff absences of teams like the Commanders and the Packers to make a surprise postseason run.

Super Bowl LX Prediction

The anticipated matchup for Super Bowl LX is projected to be a thrilling clash between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Buffalo Bills. The Eagles seek to defend their 2024 title, relying on a hardened roster and championship experience. The Bills, hungry to capture their franchise’s first Super Bowl trophy, counter with a balanced and explosive team. Predictions slightly edge in favor of the Bills with a narrow victory forecasted.

Draft Order Insights

As perennial playoff teams exclude themselves from early picks, several teams missing the postseason will vie for top draft selections. Notably, the New Orleans Saints are projected to secure the first overall pick, heralding a potential franchise-altering draft. Additionally, the Steelers’ struggles, marked by a disappointing campaign and the fading career of quarterback Aaron Rodgers, will likely place them in the upper echelon of the draft order.

Individual Awards to Watch

• MVP Stakes: Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs) remains mainstay favorite, but Justin Herbert (Chargers) and J.J. McCarthy (Vikings) could emerge as dark horses.
• Rookie of the Year: Bo Nix’s development with the Broncos will be closely monitored; strong performances could make him a contender.
• Coach of the Year: Jim Harbaugh (Chargers) and Robert Saleh (49ers) are prime candidates given their teams’ potential improvements.

As the season unfolds, these projections will be tested week by week, but for now, the NFL landscape in 2025 promises drama, excitement, and high-stakes competition leading to a memorable Super Bowl showdown.