Apologizing for the largest international schedule in NFL history and the early developments of the week, it’s clear that the significant games fans need to follow will happen on American soil.
The complete schedule for all teams was released on Wednesday.
Now, I guess it’s time to start picking favorites among the 272 games and forecasting the playoff teams.
With a rematch in mind, key players will face off, including a star quarterback from a former team. There are ten matchups that are simply unmissable for the 2025 season, though the Jets and Giants games can be left out of that list.
If only free agent Aaron Rodgers would clarify his future, and if the Browns would quickly decide on their rookie, Chedure Sanders, it might be easier to list ten must-watch games.
Chiefs vs. Eagles, Week 2
After the Chiefs triumphed over the Eagles in the 2023 Super Bowl, the Eagles returned to beat them the following season. Now, it’s the Chiefs aiming for a bit of revenge against the Eagles. Andy Reid remains the most successful coach in each franchise’s history.
Seahawks vs. Vikings, Week 13
This matchup would have been better in Minnesota, but it’s still an excellent chance for Sam Darnold to make the Vikings rethink their decision after his Pro Bowl season with a record of 14-3. The Vikings have opted for JJ McCarthy, who is new to the league and has recently recovered from two knee surgeries.
Steelers vs. Packers, Week 8
This game might mark Rodgers’ first chance against the franchise he directed for 18 seasons, facing off against the successor he coached, Jordan Love. If Rodgers does land with the Steelers, this could be an emotional game, especially at Lambeau Field. It creates a rare opportunity to see two premier franchises clash.
Commanders vs. Broncos, Week 13
Apologies to Caleb Williams and Drake May, as the standout rookie quarterbacks last season were actually Bonnix and Jaden Daniels. This will be their inaugural NFL meeting, echoing a long Super Bowl rematch between two previously up-and-coming teams. Daniels is poised to be one of the major attractions in the NFL.
Bills vs. Ravens, Week 1
The Associated Press recently voted Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen to the All-Pro first team, with Allen receiving the MVP nod. Regardless, this game is a rematch from the playoffs where Mark Andrews from the Ravens missed a game-tying two-point conversion. Both quarterbacks are among the top in the league.
Titans vs. Patriots, Week 7
Here we see two quarterbacks potentially looking toward the 2025 draft board, with the Titans likely selecting a top overall pick. This matchup also marks Mike Vrabel’s return to Nissan Stadium after spending six seasons coaching the Titans, a period that included a surprising expulsion in 2023.
Eagles vs. Lions, Week 11
The NFC Championship Game that never occurred last season could have played out in Detroit, interrupted by a surprising turn of events. Now the reigning Super Bowl champions will host their major NFC rivals. There’s intrigue surrounding the adjustments of the two new coordinators and how the Lions will fare this year.
Bills vs. Chiefs, Week 9
In the Chiefs’ first week, there’s talk about potential Super Bowl previews between matchups like Chiefs vs. Chargers or Broncos or even Lions. Yet, currently, the Bills vs. Chiefs rivalry stands out. Josh Allen has bested Patrick Mahomes in four consecutive regular-season meetings, yet Mahomes prevails with a 3-0 playoff edge. Will they meet again this January?
Raiders vs. Chargers, Week 2
This season’s AFC West games promise to highlight exciting coaching matchups. The rivalry isn’t just limited to the field—it connects to past encounters in the Pac-12. Keep an eye on the top two rookie running backs, Ashton Janti and Omarion Hampton, especially if you play fantasy football.
Bengals vs. Jaguars, Week 2
Despite featuring some of the best passers, receivers, and defensive players last season, the Bengals surprisingly missed the playoffs. They might just surprise everyone as dark horse candidates for the Super Bowl this time around. Will Jaguars’ new head coach Liam Cohen finally unlock Trevor Lawrence’s potential? This game will be a key indicator of how rookie Travis Hunter is utilized.
