The 2025 NFL season is upon us, and it’s already time for some early games. Predicting outcomes at the start tends to be tricky. Teams are often cautious during preseason, not wanting to reveal too much, especially with newcomers and fresh coaching staff. Still, we can definitely gather some insights to form educated guesses about what’s to come.
Mixon is on the NFI list, meaning he’ll miss at least the first four games. As for Nick Chubb, he seems to be taking the lead into week one, but his situation isn’t ideal since the Rams are favorites over Houston. If the Texans fall behind, Chubb might struggle, putting the spotlight on Ogunboir and Woody Marks as well.
Spears is out for the first four games due to an ankle injury. Meanwhile, Tony Pollard looks set to have a solid fantasy footing, with expected increased responsibilities.
Harris is healing from an eye injury and could potentially face the Chiefs on Friday. That’s encouraging news for his prospects going forward, but first-round draft pick Omarion Hampton is pushing to make a name for himself. It’s worth waiting to see if Harris can secure the job before making a fantasy move.
De’von Achane, Dolphins
Achane is dealing with a calf issue but seems to be recovering, getting back into practice. It looks like he’ll be available for week one.
Wright, on the other hand, will likely miss the first week due to a leg injury, which opens the door for rookie Ollie Gordon to get more playing time against the Colts.
When looking at running backs and their odds, targeting a clear favorite with a high point total is key. A leading team can utilize their backs more effectively, especially if they don’t have to throw to catch up in the fourth quarter. If you’ve got a strong roster, you’d want your team in the lead or at least in a position where they have to throw rather than just hand off the ball.
Bills vs. Ravens (-1.5) – 52.5
Packers vs. Lions (-2.5) – 47.5
Browns vs. Bengals (-5.5) – 47.5
Eagles vs. Cowboys (-7.5) – 47.5
The highest implied team totals
Eagles 27.5, Bills 27, Bengals 26.5, Commander 26, Ravens 25.5, Packers 25
Jets vs. Steelers (-2.5) –37.5
Titans vs. Broncos (-7.5)—41.5
Cardinals vs. Saints (-5.5) – 42.5
Patriots vs. Raiders (-2.5)—43.5
Bears vs. Vikings (-1.5) –43.5
The lowest implied team totals
Titans 17, Jets 17.5, Saints 18.5, Giants 19.5, Cowboys 20, Steelers 20
Eagles vs. Cowboys (-7.5)
Broncos vs. Titans (-7.5)
Commanders vs. Titans (-6.5)
Ford took a pay cut to stay with the team this offseason, even as they drafted two running backs. Still, it seems he’ll be taking the lead role at the start of the season. Last year in Week 16 against the Bengals, he caught five passes for 39 yards and rushed for 92 yards and a couple of touchdowns. He definitely looks like a reliable flex option to kick things off.
Mason might take the lead role too, with Aaron Jones potentially being more of a receiving back, but it’s not entirely clear how the distribution will look in week one. Things are always shifting, but the Bears’ defense ranked low last year in terms of fantasy points allowed.
