Underdog Alert: Predicting the Surprise Teams That Will Shock the NFL in 2025
The NFL is a league of constant surprises. Just last year, the Washington Commanders defied expectations, going from a bottom-dweller to a playoff contender. As the 2025 season approaches, the question isn’t if there will be surprise teams, but who they will be. Several teams have made significant changes this offseason, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering who will rise above the rest.
The New England Patriots: From Worst to First?
No team may have had a more transformative offseason than the New England Patriots. After a dismal 2024 season, finishing 31st in yards per game and 28th in point differential, the Patriots were in desperate need of an overhaul. They addressed this need aggressively, revamping their coaching staff and making significant additions to their roster.
Coaching Overhaul: The Patriots brought in a completely new coaching staff, led by head coach Mike Vrabel, defensive coordinator Terrell Williams, and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. Vrabel, known as a “leader of men,” is expected to bring stability and discipline to the team. McDaniels, returning to New England for his third stint as offensive coordinator, is tasked with developing second-year quarterback Drake Maye.
Key Acquisitions: The Patriots were major players in free agency, signing impactful players such as DT Milton Williams, CB Carlton Davis, WR Stefon Diggs, RT Morgan Moses, and LB Harold Landry. They also had a strong draft, selecting OT Will Campbell to solve their left tackle problem and adding offensive speed with RB TreVeyon Henderson and WR Kyle Williams.
Favorable Schedule: The Patriots have one of the easiest schedules in the NFL for 2025. Their schedule, combined with their improved roster and coaching staff, gives them a legitimate chance to go from worst to first in the AFC East.
Las Vegas Raiders: A New Era Under Carroll and Smith
The Las Vegas Raiders also had a busy offseason, revamping their coaching staff and several key position groups. While they may not have made as many splashy moves as the Patriots, they are still looking much better on paper than they did in 2024.
Experienced Leadership: The Raiders brought in one of the winningest coaches in football history in Pete Carroll. Carroll, known for his culture-building and championship pedigree, is expected to bring stability and competitiveness to the team.
Offensive Additions: The Raiders traded for veteran quarterback Geno Smith, reuniting him with Carroll. They also drafted RB Ashton Jeanty, a Heisman candidate, to bolster their running game. With TE Brock Bowers entering his second year, the Raiders’ offense has the potential to be much improved.
Wild Card Contenders: With their improved roster and coaching staff, the Raiders could be a threat for an AFC Wild Card spot. However, they still play in a tough AFC West division.
New York Jets: Can Fields Thrive in the Big Apple?
The New York Jets are another team that could surprise in 2025. Despite moving on from future Hall of Fame QB Aaron Rodgers, the Jets have made several moves to improve their roster and coaching staff.
New Quarterback, New Coach: The Jets replaced Rodgers with Justin Fields, giving the young quarterback a fresh start with his third team in three years. They also hired Aaron Glenn as their new head coach, hoping he can get the most out of a talented Jets defense.
Defensive Boost: The Jets bolstered their defense with veterans like DL Derrick Nnadi and S Andre Cisco. They also used their first-round pick on OT Armand Membou, pairing him with 2024 first-rounder Olumuyiwa Fashanu to solidify their offensive line.
Tough Schedule: The Jets will be tested early, hosting the Steelers and Bills in the first two weeks of the season. However, with their improved roster and coaching staff, they have the potential to surprise some teams in 2025.
Other Potential Surprise Teams
While the Patriots, Raiders, and Jets may be the most likely candidates to surprise in 2025, several other teams could also make a leap:
- Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals made strides in Jonathan Gannon’s second season, and they added talent on the defensive side with the signings of Josh Sweat and draft picks Walter Nolen and Will Johnson.
- Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons spent two first-round picks on edge rushers and have a talented offense led by Michael Penix Jr., Bijan Robinson, and Drake London.
- Chicago Bears: With a new quarterback in Caleb Williams and an improved offensive line, the Bears could surprise if Ben Johnson can unlock Williams’ potential.
- Minnesota Vikings: The Vikings have built a strong roster around quarterback J.J. McCarthy and have one of the league’s best offensive minds in head coach Kevin O’Connell.
Factors to Consider
Several factors could contribute to a team’s ability to surprise in 2025:
- Coaching Changes: New coaching staffs can bring fresh perspectives and strategies that can help teams improve.
- Roster Improvements: Adding talent through free agency and the draft can significantly improve a team’s chances of success.
- Schedule: A favorable schedule can give teams an easier path to the playoffs.
- Quarterback Play: Strong quarterback play is essential for any team looking to make a leap.
- Health: Injuries can derail even the most talented teams.
The 2025 NFL season promises to be full of surprises. While it’s impossible to predict exactly which teams will shock the league, the Patriots, Raiders, and Jets are among the most likely candidates. With new coaching staffs, improved rosters, and favorable schedules, these teams have the potential to exceed expectations and make a run at the playoffs.