How the Packers Are Shaking Up NFC Rankings: NFL Execs Weigh In on Eagles, Cowboys, and the Impact of the Parsons Trade!

With the 2025 NFL season about to kick off, I surveyed eight league executives to gauge expectations for all 16 NFC teams. The consensus? The NFC landscape is unpredictable this year.

One exec noted the wide gap in team strength within the NFC compared to the AFC. He predicted that an underdog team from the NFC would make the playoffs unexpectedly this season. “It’ll be a team that just got super lucky,” he said.

The executives, who work in various roles like personnel evaluation and analytics, ranked each team anonymously. The defending champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, secured the top spot, with the San Francisco 49ers sliding from the previous year’s number one to seventh.

Top Teams Expectations

1. Philadelphia Eagles: Most of the execs viewed them as the likely conference favorites. Their defense, which ranked second in EPA (Expected Points Added) per play last year, is expected to improve under coordinator Vic Fangio. Despite losing Nakobe Dean for a bit, the young defense remains promising. However, some are wary of the potential impact of losing offensive coordinator Kellen Moore.

2. Green Bay Packers: Many executives praised the Packers, especially after acquiring pass rusher Micah Parsons. Their offense has strength in depth, and the young quarterback, Jordan Love, could be a pivotal factor. One exec remarked, “They have so few weaknesses.”

3. Detroit Lions: Detroit is seen as a contender, even amid some changes. Despite losing key offensive line players and coordinators, the team’s talent still shines through. “The talent is way too strong to regress,” said one exec.

4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: After a strong season, they are ranked high this year. The return of key players and a solid offensive scheme under new coaching should help them maintain their competitiveness.

Teams to Watch

5. Los Angeles Rams: The Rams’ rank fluctuated among the execs due to concerns over quarterback Matthew Stafford’s health. If he stays fit, the team might bounce back well.

6. Washington Commanders: The addition of quarterback Jayden Daniels has raised hopes, with some projecting he could find success quickly. Their defense, however, will need to improve, as it ranked low last season.

7. San Francisco 49ers: Once a powerhouse, they’re now viewed as vulnerable. Some execs pointed out issues with their offensive line and receiver talent, along with uncertainty about quarterback Brock Purdy’s performance.

8. Minnesota Vikings: They are experiencing a significant change with J.J. McCarthy stepping in as quarterback. The concern lies in transitioning from a seasoned starter to an inexperienced player.

Insights and Trends

User reactions on social media indicate a blend of excitement and skepticism about the upcoming season. Fans are particularly curious about the performance of rookie quarterbacks like J.J. McCarthy and Jayden Daniels, as expectations weigh heavily on their shoulders.

Statistically, the NFC is more balanced this year, shown by tight win projections among teams. According to BetMGM, several teams, including the Lions and Buccaneers, have high Super Bowl odds, creating an interesting playoff picture.

In summary, the NFC promises an intriguing season filled with potential surprises. Each team brings its own story, with fans eager to see how the landscape evolves. For detailed rankings and projections, check the latest from trusted sources like The Athletic.

Source link

Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears, Dallas Cowboys, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Rams, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Washington Commanders, NFL