The 2024 NFL season has come to a close, with the Philadelphia Eagles emerging as Super Bowl champions. As Philadelphia celebrates its second Super Bowl title, other teams in the NFL are gearing up for the 2025 season, eager to dethrone the champions.

With several months remaining before the new season kicks off in September, offseason activities are expected to bring significant changes throughout the league. In this article, we’ll explore early predictions for Super Bowl LX favorites and examine key teams and storylines to keep an eye on in the coming months.

Odds for Super Bowl LX

Odds provided by DraftKings Sportsbook.

Essential dates for the NFL offseason: Free agency, combines, drafts, trades, and other significant events

Cody Benjamin

Teams to Watch This Offseason

Washington Commanders

The Commanders surprised many by reaching the NFC Championship in 2024, largely thanks to the breakout performance of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. With their future franchise QB locked into a rookie contract, Washington becomes a team to watch this offseason as they focus on surrounding Daniels with more talent.

Washington holds seven picks in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, including the 29th overall selection. Additionally, they boast the third-highest cap space in the league this offseason, indicating potential for significant acquisitions in free agency. Daniels may also help attract free agents to the team.

Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals find themselves in a challenging situation following a disappointing 2024 season without a playoff appearance. Despite having Joe Burrow at the helm, they face critical decisions in the offseason regarding key players. Notably, Tee Higgins is set to enter free agency, and retaining him is uncertain.

The Bengals are also pressed to negotiate significant extensions for Ja’Marr Chase and pass rusher Trey Hendrickson, who led the league in sacks last season. Filling gaps on the roster will add further pressure to this offseason.

New England Patriots

The Patriots may not be the first team that comes to mind when considering offseason activity, but their considerable cap space—approximately $120 million—could make them a significant player in free agency and the NFL Draft. Additionally, they possess the fourth overall pick, providing another opportunity to enhance their roster under new head coach Mike Vrabel.

With Drake Maye secured as their quarterback of the future, the Patriots can concentrate on filling other roles to accelerate their rebuild process.

San Francisco 49ers

Recent developments indicate that the 49ers have permitted wide receiver Deebo Samuel to explore trade options. However, the critical focus remains on quarterback Brock Purdy, who is now eligible for a contract extension. Spotrac estimates his market value to be around $59.7 million annually over four years, placing him just below Dak Prescott in the rankings for highest-paid quarterbacks.

While both parties have expressed a desire to work together long-term, the negotiation process may be more complex than anticipated.

Cleveland Browns

The offseason has just begun, yet the Cleveland Browns are already at the center of numerous headlines. One major point of interest is pass rusher Myles Garrett, who has reportedly requested a trade. Cleveland’s asking price of two first-round picks indicates their intent to build a strong future, should a deal go through.

Additionally, the Browns face a pressing decision regarding quarterback Deshaun Watson, who has suffered another Achilles injury, putting his status for 2025 in doubt. The team must consider whether to acquire a veteran, such as Kirk Cousins, or draft a promising rookie with the second overall pick.

Offseason Storylines to Watch

How Will the Quarterback Carousel Unfold?

As we enter another offseason, the quarterback position is expected to dominate headlines. Significant movement, including potential trades and signings, is anticipated over the next few months. One prominent name to watch is Sam Darnold, who becomes a free agent after a productive season with the Minnesota Vikings. Despite a mixed bag of performances down the stretch, he remains an attractive option and could receive the franchise tag.

Other veteran quarterbacks such as Matthew Stafford, Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, and Derek Carr could also play significant roles in this offseason’s quarterback shuffle.

Where Will Myles Garrett Land?

Myles Garrett is poised to be one of the key figures in this offseason’s transactions. With the potential of a blockbuster trade, where he lands could significantly alter the competitive landscape of the NFL. If he joins the Detroit Lions, for instance, to create a formidable pass-rushing duo with Aidan Hutchinson, the defending champions, the Eagles, will be on alert. Similarly, a move to the Commanders or other teams could shift the power dynamics.

What Will the Titans Do with the No. 1 Overall Pick?

The Tennessee Titans hold the coveted No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and their decision on this pick remains uncertain. Unlike previous drafts with obvious selections, they face multiple paths. Despite the struggles of Will Levis, they require a quarterback for their future, but their front office has also hinted at a commitment to securing a ‘generational talent,’ potentially considering players like Travis Hunter.

Speculation is ripe that the Titans may even trade the first overall pick, making their strategy a focal point leading up to the draft.

Which Wide Receivers Might Get Traded?

The trade market for wide receivers could be bustling this offseason. Notably, Cooper Kupp has indicated a desire to be traded from the Rams, while Deebo Samuel has also been cleared to seek a new destination. Furthermore, DK Metcalf is entering the final year of his contract and could trigger a trade from Seattle, along with veteran Davante Adams, especially following the Jets’ departure from Aaron Rodgers. Other unforeseen trades may also loom on the horizon.

Will Travis Kelce Retire?

Had the Kansas City Chiefs succeeded in capturing the Super Bowl LIX title, Travis Kelce’s decision regarding retirement might have already been revealed. However, as it stands, his future with the team remains uncertain. If Kelce opts to retire, the Chiefs would face a considerable challenge in replacing his impact and would need to find a new primary target for quarterback Patrick Mahomes.