Historically, we’ve seen teams rise from the depths, sometimes aided by a favorable schedule. The NFL assigns schedules based on last season’s performance, and this can rejuvenate a franchise almost overnight. A case in point is the Washington Commanders, who finished last in their division in 2023 but took advantage of that schedule to secure a playoff spot in Dan Quinn’s first year. However, I’ve noticed them often failing to maintain that momentum.
So, which teams might gain the most from their upcoming schedules, and which ones could find themselves in a tough spot in 2025?
San Francisco 49ers: Good Opportunity
After a challenging season plagued by injuries, the 49ers wound up at the bottom of the NFC West. But now, with a healthier roster and a more favorable schedule—which includes teams that aren’t playoff contenders like the New York Giants, Cleveland Browns, and New Orleans Saints—they have a real chance to turn things around. Plus, they’ll face some competitive teams like the Jaguars, Falcons, and Bears, but those games are all at home. It seems the NFL has helped the 49ers with their scheduling to help them regain their footing.
New England Patriots: Favorable Schedule
Under new coach Mike Vrabel, the Patriots seem to be set for a promising start to 2025. They face the second-easiest schedule in the league, following the 49ers. Their opponents include the New York Giants, Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints, and Tennessee Titans. Additionally, playing the Dolphins twice a season adds a layer of familiarity. With home games against the Raiders and Falcons, the balance looks good despite tougher away games against teams like Baltimore and Cincinnati. 2025 could be bright for New England.
Carolina Panthers: Potential for Growth
The Panthers, led by head coach Dave Canales, could quietly rise in 2025. They have only one primetime game, and their initial schedule looks manageable. While they may not face many vulnerable teams, they will encounter winnable matchups. Playing against the AFC East—with the exception of Buffalo—should work in their favor, but they’ll face tougher challenges later in the season with five of their last eight games against divisional rivals.
Cleveland Browns: Challenging Road Ahead
Unfortunately for the Browns, they have a tough schedule ahead. Alongside facing all AFC North teams twice, they will go up against the NFC North, which boasts three strong teams. Their matchup with a revamped 49ers squad and the Buffalo Bills will also test their limits. This sets a daunting stage for a franchise already facing a rough outlook for the upcoming season.
New York Giants: Tough Start
The Giants have a grueling first nine games lined up, including contests against teams like Washington, Dallas, Kansas City, and Los Angeles Chargers. Not to mention, they also face Philadelphia twice and have a tough stretch leading into their bye week with additional challenges. It’s a punishing start, and head coach Brian Daboll might find it difficult to navigate through it.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Upcoming Challenges
The Steelers’ season opener isn’t too intimidating, facing the Jets, Seahawks, and Patriots. But post-Cleveland, the schedule becomes daunting quickly. They have back-to-back primetime games, including challenging matchups against the Bengals and Packers. With additional tough contests against teams like the Colts, Chargers, and Ravens, it seems the road ahead could be pretty rough, especially with uncertainty at the quarterback position. It’ll be interesting to see how they adapt.
