
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, USA TODAY Sports has stirred conversation with bold projections—tipping the Denver Broncos to claim the AFC West crown with a 12–5 record, finally dethroning the Kansas City Chiefs. On the NFC side, the Philadelphia Eagles and Detroit Lions are pegged as top contenders, both expected to finish strong at 12–5. Surprise teams like the Houston Texans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Arizona Cardinals also make appearances in playoff forecasts. While USA TODAY has yet to reveal its picks for Super Bowl 60 champions, MVP, and other major awards, the early landscape suggests a thrilling season of shifting power dynamics and emerging underdogs. Stay tuned for the full breakdown as more predictions drop.