Hits and Misses: Biggest Surprises and Disappointments of the 2025 NFL Season
The 2025 NFL season has already delivered a rollercoaster of emotions, with unexpected triumphs and crushing defeats leaving fans and analysts alike in a state of constant surprise. From veteran quarterbacks finding new life to highly-touted rookies struggling to find their footing, this season has been anything but predictable. As we pass the midway point, let’s delve into the biggest surprises and disappointments that have defined the year so far.
The Unexpected Ascent of the Arizona Cardinals
One of the most significant surprises of the season has been the resurgence of the Arizona Cardinals. After a middling performance in 2024, with Kyler Murray returning from injury, the Cardinals were not expected to make much noise in the competitive NFC West. However, Murray’s stellar performance, coupled with the explosive addition of rookie wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., has transformed the Cardinals’ offense into a formidable force.
The Cardinals’ defense, bolstered by the signing of pass rusher Josh Sweat, has also shown marked improvement, creating a balanced team that is currently vying for the top spot in their division. Their Week 6 victory over the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles, a game where they were 7-point underdogs, was a statement win that solidified their status as a legitimate contender.
Aaron Rodgers’ Fountain of Youth in Pittsburgh
When the Pittsburgh Steelers signed 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers in the offseason, many questioned whether the veteran quarterback had anything left in the tank. However, Rodgers has defied expectations, injecting new life into the Steelers’ offense and leading them to an unexpected run of success.
Rodgers’ arrival has not only elevated the play of wide receiver DK Metcalf but has also provided invaluable leadership to a young and developing Steelers team. While some worry about the long-term viability of relying on an aging quarterback, Rodgers’ performance so far has been nothing short of remarkable, proving that experience and skill can still trump age in the NFL.
The Chicago Bears’ Transformation Under Ben Johnson
The hiring of former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as the Chicago Bears’ head coach was met with cautious optimism. However, Johnson’s impact on the Bears has been nothing short of transformative. Quarterback Caleb Williams, who struggled mightily in his rookie season, has blossomed under Johnson’s tutelage, displaying the potential that made him the top pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Johnson’s innovative offensive schemes, coupled with the additions of Pro Bowl guards Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney, have revitalized the Bears’ offense, turning them into a team capable of challenging for the NFC North title. Their Week 3 victory over the Green Bay Packers, ending an 11-game losing streak to their rivals, was a clear indication that the Bears are finally heading in the right direction.
The Fall From Grace: San Francisco 49ers
On the other end of the spectrum, the San Francisco 49ers have been one of the biggest disappointments of the 2025 season. After a Super Bowl appearance last season, expectations were sky-high for Kyle Shanahan’s squad. However, a combination of injuries, key departures, and underwhelming performances has led to a stunning collapse.
The loss of key defensive players like Charvarius Ward, Talanoa Hufanga, and Dre Greenlaw has decimated the 49ers’ defense, while the offense has struggled to find consistency without a reliable running game. Quarterback Brock Purdy, who signed a lucrative contract extension in the offseason, has failed to live up to expectations, raising questions about his long-term future as the team’s franchise quarterback.
The Cincinnati Bengals’ Internal Turmoil
The Cincinnati Bengals entered the 2025 season with Super Bowl aspirations, but internal drama and contract disputes have derailed their campaign. Contract disputes with key players like Trey Hendrickson and Shemar Stewart have created a toxic atmosphere within the team, leading to inconsistent performances on the field.
While quarterback Joe Burrow and wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase have continued to produce at a high level, the Bengals’ defense has been a liability, failing to provide the support needed to compete with the top teams in the AFC. Unless the Bengals can resolve their internal issues, their Super Bowl dreams will remain just that – dreams.
The New York Jets’ Quarterback Carousel Continues
The New York Jets’ search for a franchise quarterback has been a long and arduous one, and the 2025 season has been no different. After parting ways with Aaron Rodgers, the Jets turned to Justin Fields in hopes of finding stability under center. However, Fields has struggled to adapt to the Jets’ offense, leading to inconsistent performances and mounting frustration from fans.
The Jets’ struggles at quarterback have overshadowed the team’s other issues, including a porous offensive line and a defense that has failed to live up to its potential. Unless the Jets can find a long-term solution at quarterback, they will continue to be mired in mediocrity.
The Underperforming Dallas Cowboys
Despite owner Jerry Jones’ bold declaration that the Cowboys were “all in” this season, their performance has been underwhelming. The return of Ezekiel Elliott did little to spark the running game, and Dak Prescott’s injury further exposed the team’s lack of depth. The Cowboys’ inability to address key needs in the offseason, such as defensive tackle and linebacker, has come back to haunt them, leaving fans questioning the team’s direction.
Bold Predictions Gone Bust
Several bold predictions made before the season have fallen flat. The Detroit Lions, touted as Super Bowl contenders, have struggled with injuries and the loss of key coaching staff, failing to live up to the hype. Similarly, the Buffalo Bills, despite Josh Allen’s MVP-caliber play, have been unable to consistently dominate their opponents, raising doubts about their ability to make a deep playoff run.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 NFL season progresses, it’s clear that surprises and disappointments will continue to shape the landscape of the league. While some teams will look to build on their unexpected success, others will be forced to confront their shortcomings and make difficult decisions about the future. One thing is certain: the NFL is a league of constant change, and the teams that can adapt and overcome adversity will be the ones that ultimately emerge victorious.