Let’s examine 15 figures in the NFL who find themselves in intriguing positions as we approach the 2025 season, presented in alphabetical order, with training camp just over a month away.
Josh Allen:
At just 29, the Buffalo Bills quarterback is gearing up to defend his first NFL MVP title. He’s certainly still in his prime, and while we know he can improve, we’re really looking for him to lead the Bills to a Super Bowl appearance. His 2025 season will be one to watch.
Saquon Barkley:
Barkley played a pivotal role in the Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl victory last season, showcasing one of the best seasons for a running back. Dominant, yes. Now at age 28, he’s in his second season with the Eagles after moving on from the New York Giants. This season promises to be equally captivating.
Block Bowers:
Bowers might not have received the recognition he deserved with his rookie year in 2024. As a first-round pick in Las Vegas, he had a fantastic season, setting records for tight ends with 112 receptions for 1,194 yards and earning First Team All-Pro accolades. With a new offensive coordinator and support from rookie running back Ashton Janti, he seems poised for an exciting career ahead.
Dan Campbell:
The Detroit Lions coach is no longer just a quirky personality. After leading the team to a No. 1 seed in the NFC playoffs last season, can he sustain that momentum? Following a disappointing upset in the playoffs, and with the departure of two coordinators, how Campbell adapts in 2025 will be intriguing, especially as he aims to keep the Super Bowl window open.
Cleveland Browns Quarterback:
The battle at quarterback for the Browns is heating up. Will it be Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, or someone else stepping up? Deshaun Watson might have a shot too. One of them must seize this opportunity, and naturally, everyone is watching closely.
Jaden Daniels:
The Offensive Rookie of the Year was nothing short of spectacular in 2024. He’s a dual threat as a passer and a runner, resembling a seasoned pro already. Fans are hopeful he can indeed lead the Washington Commanders on a genuine Super Bowl run. The challenge now, of course, is avoiding a sophomore slump.
Sam Darnold:
What’s next for him? Having spent a lot of the last season in the process, he might fit right into the Seattle Seahawks’ plans or, well, become a wandering journeyman after last season with the Vikings. The Seahawks are banking on him stepping up. It’ll be interesting to see how this unfolds.
Jim Harbaugh:
Proving he still has what it takes, Harbaugh led the Los Angeles Chargers back to the postseason after nearly a decade away from the NFL. He’s now aiming for a serious Super Bowl challenge, hoping to join his brother John as a head coach who’s won the Lombardi Trophy.
Travis Hunter:
This could actually work out. He might play significant snaps on both offense and defense. After trading up for the No. 2 overall pick, the Jacksonville Jaguars are putting in the effort to develop him. If successful, Hunter could emerge as a standout player in the modern NFL landscape.
Ben Johnson:
As the offensive coordinator for the NFC North’s Lions, Johnson now has a head coach position to uphold. The Chicago Bears, who have stirred interest this offseason, are looking for him to deliver on the hype. It’s crunch time for him.
Patrick Mahomes:
Remember him? There’s a narrative emerging that Mahomes might not be the dominant force he once was, especially after a less-than-stellar season in 2024 and a Super Bowl loss. But he seems poised for a comeback; this might be his chance to prove everyone wrong.
JJ McCarthy:
The Vikings expected big things from McCarthy before an unfortunate knee injury sidelined him during his rookie season. Now healthy, he’s under the spotlight. With a strong roster around him, expectations are high, and there’s plenty of pressure for him to perform.
Michael Penix:
As the Atlanta Falcons’ starting quarterback, Penix’s mixed reviews last year didn’t deter the team, thanks to a solid supportive cast. This season is likely to be telling regarding his long-term future, especially with Kirk Cousins’ shadow still looming.
Brock Purdy:
This can’t be dismissed any longer. The 49ers have committed $265 million over five years to Purdy, the final pick of the 2022 draft. With high stakes riding on his performance, can he validate the franchise’s significant financial investment in him?
Mike Tomlin:
Interestingly, there’s a segment of Pittsburgh Steelers fans feeling fatigued with Tomlin. Despite being the NFL’s longest-serving coach in Pittsburgh since 2007—and never having a losing season—the Steelers haven’t won a playoff game since 2016. As Tomlin teams up with Aaron Rodgers, it’s going to be fascinating to see how this all plays out.
