2025 NFL Season Preview: Expert Predictions on Super Bowl Contenders, MVP Favorites, and Rising Stars

Leading NFL analysts weigh in on the upcoming season, predicting Super Bowl matchups, MVP frontrunners, breakout candidates, and teams facing potential regression.

The 2025 NFL offseason is in full swing following the Philadelphia Eagles' Super Bowl LIX triumph. With free agency and the draft on the horizon, ESPN's 13 NFL experts have shared their early insights for Super Bowl LX. Here's a breakdown of their predictions:

Super Bowl LX Predictions

  • Matt Bowen: Lions over Ravens
  • Jeremy Fowler: Bills over Rams
  • Dan Graziano: Chiefs over Commanders
  • Kalyn Kahler: Eagles over Bills
  • Pamela Maldonado: Bengals over Commanders

MVP Favorites

  • Joe Burrow (Bengals): After a stellar 2024 season, Burrow is poised to lead the Bengals back to the playoffs and claim the MVP.
  • Jayden Daniels (Commanders): The Offensive Rookie of the Year could continue his meteoric rise.
  • Lamar Jackson (Ravens): Jackson aims for his third MVP with a historic statistical season.

Breakout Candidates

  • Caleb Williams (Bears): Under new head coach Ben Johnson, Williams could elevate his game significantly.
  • Rome Odunze (Bears): Expected to shine as a three-level target.
  • Drake Maye (Patriots): With an improved offensive line, Maye could showcase his natural talents.

Potential Regression Teams

  • Lions: Losing both coordinators could lead to early-season challenges.
  • Vikings: Replicating a 14-win season with key free agent departures will be tough.
  • Commanders: After a magical run, they might take a step back.

Key Offseason Moves

  • Tee Higgins to the Commanders: Adding Higgins could give Jayden Daniels another elite target.
  • Myles Garrett to the Lions: Pairing Garrett with Aidan Hutchinson could create a dominant pass rush.

For more detailed analysis and offseason updates, follow ESPN's NFL coverage.

What to Read Next

Xavien Howard's Comeback: A New Chapter with the Indianapolis Colts After 18-Month Hiatus
NFL

Xavien Howard's Comeback: A New Chapter with the Indianapolis Colts After 18-Month Hiatus

After an 18-month hiatus due to injuries and off-field issues, Xavien Howard is ready to make a strong comeback with the Indianapolis Colts, bringing his veteran skills and renewed passion to the field.

Week 1 NFL Touchdown Predictions: Top 25 Scorers Revealed by Mike Clay
NFL

Week 1 NFL Touchdown Predictions: Top 25 Scorers Revealed by Mike Clay

Discover Mike Clay's top 25 predicted touchdown scorers for NFL Week 1, including implied odds and betting insights.

NFL Week 1 Betting Insights: Expert Picks and Prop Bets for the 2025 Season
NFL

NFL Week 1 Betting Insights: Expert Picks and Prop Bets for the 2025 Season

Get expert NFL Week 1 betting insights and prop bets for the 2025 season, including match analysis and value picks.

NFL Week 1 2025: Key Matchups, Fantasy Sleepers, and Bold Predictions
NFL

NFL Week 1 2025: Key Matchups, Fantasy Sleepers, and Bold Predictions

Get ready for NFL Week 1 2025 with in-depth analysis on key matchups, fantasy sleepers, and bold predictions. Don't miss out on the latest insights!

How 49ers Veterans Are Shaping the Future: Leadership and Mentorship in the NFL
NFL

How 49ers Veterans Are Shaping the Future: Leadership and Mentorship in the NFL

Explore how the San Francisco 49ers' veterans are stepping up to mentor rookies and guide the team through a transformative NFL season.

New York Giants' Defense: From Preseason Hype to Regular Season Dominance
NFL

New York Giants' Defense: From Preseason Hype to Regular Season Dominance

The New York Giants' defense, bolstered by key offseason acquisitions, aims to transform preseason hype into regular-season success as they face the Washington Commanders.

Buffalo Bills' 2022 Draft Class: Building a New Dynasty Around Josh Allen
NFL

Buffalo Bills' 2022 Draft Class: Building a New Dynasty Around Josh Allen

The Buffalo Bills' 2022 draft class is shaping up to be the foundation of a new era, with key players securing extensions and rallying around QB Josh Allen.

Justin Herbert Leads Chargers to Thrilling Victory Over Chiefs in Brazil's AFC West Showdown
NFL

Justin Herbert Leads Chargers to Thrilling Victory Over Chiefs in Brazil's AFC West Showdown

Justin Herbert's stellar performance propels the Chargers to a crucial 27-21 win over the Chiefs in São Paulo, marking a significant shift in the AFC West rivalry.

Kansas City Chiefs: Building a Global NFL Legacy with Brazil Game
NFL

Kansas City Chiefs: Building a Global NFL Legacy with Brazil Game

The Kansas City Chiefs embrace their role as global ambassadors for the NFL, showcasing their brand and star players in Brazil’s season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers.

Miami Dolphins' Confidence in Tua Tagovailoa and Key Players' Chemistry Ahead of Season Opener
NFL

Miami Dolphins' Confidence in Tua Tagovailoa and Key Players' Chemistry Ahead of Season Opener

Explore why the Miami Dolphins remain confident in Tua Tagovailoa's chemistry with Tyreek Hill and De'Von Achane despite limited offseason reps.

DeMeco Ryans Confident in Texans' Revamped Offensive Line as Season Kicks Off
NFL

DeMeco Ryans Confident in Texans' Revamped Offensive Line as Season Kicks Off

Houston Texans' head coach DeMeco Ryans expresses confidence in the team's revamped offensive line as they prepare to face the Los Angeles Rams in the season opener.

Top NFL Fantasy Picks: Lawrence, Ekeler, and Meyers Set to Shine in Week 1
NFL

Top NFL Fantasy Picks: Lawrence, Ekeler, and Meyers Set to Shine in Week 1

Discover why Trevor Lawrence, Austin Ekeler, and Jakobi Meyers are poised to dominate in NFL Week 1 fantasy football. Expert insights and key matchups analyzed.

Jim Harbaugh's Evolution: From Intensity to Innovation with the Los Angeles Chargers
NFL

Jim Harbaugh's Evolution: From Intensity to Innovation with the Los Angeles Chargers

Explore how Jim Harbaugh's coaching style has evolved over the years, leading the Los Angeles Chargers with a focus on health and strategic innovation.

Jaylon Johnson's Return: A Game-Changer for the Bears' Defense in MNF Opener
NFL

Jaylon Johnson's Return: A Game-Changer for the Bears' Defense in MNF Opener

Jaylon Johnson's potential return for the Bears' MNF opener could significantly boost their defense, despite recent injuries in the secondary.

Eagles Triumph Over Cowboys in a Thrilling NFL Season Opener
NFL

Eagles Triumph Over Cowboys in a Thrilling NFL Season Opener

The Philadelphia Eagles edged out the Dallas Cowboys in a dramatic NFL season opener, marked by a spitting ejection and a weather delay.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.