LitZone's Week 1 NFL Power Rankings: #32 - #17

The 2025 NFL season is upon us! Each team commences anew, armed with lofty aspirations and ambitious goals. While some teams appear poised to establish dominance, others must demonstrate their competitiveness. Let's delve into how all 32 teams are ranked as the season embarks.

32. New Orleans Saints

The Saints are embarking on a new chapter with young quarterback Spencer Rattler at the helm. Last year, Rattler faced significant challenges during his initial six starts, struggling to find his rhythm and failing to connect effectively with his receivers. For the Saints to have any chance this season, Rattler must elevate his performance swiftly.

Although Alvin Kamara continues to run with tenacity and catch passes from the backfield, and Chris Olave has the potential to make spectacular catches—provided he remains healthy—the team has numerous deficiencies to address. The offensive line has difficulty providing sufficient protection, and the defense allowed too many points in the previous season.

31. Cleveland Browns

Cleveland is grappling with serious issues on offense this year. Their offensive line is barely capable of safeguarding the quarterback, which means that Joe Flacco and rookie Shadeur Sanders will endure a punishing season filled with hits. Winning games becomes a formidable challenge when your quarterback is perpetually trying to evade defenders.

David Njoku stands out as a talented tight end who can secure difficult passes. Rookie running back Quinshon Judkins is expected to bolster the ground game when he takes the field. However, opposing defenses will likely stack eight players in the box until Cleveland demonstrates they can effectively throw the football.

30. Tennessee Titans

Rookie Cameron Ward provides Titans fans with a glimmer of hope. He possesses a powerful arm and can make plays with his mobility. Wide receiver Calvin Ridley runs precise routes and consistently catches passes directed his way. However, the other receivers are still in the process of honing their skills.

Running backs Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears offer both rushing and receiving capabilities, injecting speed into the backfield. Nevertheless, maintaining health throughout the season is crucial. Additionally, the defense continues to concede too many significant plays to opposing offenses.

29. New York Giants

Russell Wilson brings a wealth of experience to the Giants. He retains the ability to launch deep passes and evade pressure in the pocket. Wide receiver Malik Nabers is primed for a breakout season as he catches passes downfield. Together, these two players have the potential to create some thrilling moments.

Nonetheless, the Giants require assistance in various other areas. The running game struggles to establish consistency, and the offensive line falters in creating openings. The defense showcases some youthful talent but necessitates time to develop into a formidable unit.

28. Indianapolis Colts

Daniel Jones commencing as the starting quarterback indicates that Anthony Richardson isn’t quite ready yet. While Richardson displayed flashes of promise last year, he suffered an injury that hindered his confidence. The Colts need him to regain his health and enhance his understanding of the game.

Jonathan Taylor continues to power through defenders between the tackles, regularly finding the end zone. Michael Pittman Jr. and Josh Downs are dependable receivers who catch most balls thrown their way. However, the offense requires Richardson’s speed and arm strength to truly unlock its potential.

27. Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders have brought in new coaching talent focused on enhancing their running game. First-round pick Ashton Jeanty is expected to bear the workload in the backfield, running with power and breaking arm tackles. Star tight end Brock Bowers can catch passes from various positions on the field.

Geno Smith adeptly manages the offense but lacks the ability to produce many big plays. He makes prudent decisions and avoids turnovers. However, the defense continues to allow an excessive number of points. The Raiders are in the process of building a stronger team but require additional talent in key positions.

26. Carolina Panthers

Quarterback Bryce Young began to gain a clearer understanding of the game towards the end of last season, showing improvement in reading defenses and making quicker throws. The Panthers bolstered their roster with rookie receiver Tetairoa McMillan, who is adept at running crisp routes and possesses excellent hands.

This season, the running game boasts considerable depth, with Chuba Hubbard, Rico Dowdle, and rookie Trevor Etienne each contributing unique skills. The offensive line is expected to provide better protection for Young as well. While this team is heading in a positive direction, they are still learning how to secure victories in close contests.

25. New York Jets

Quarterback Justin Fields adds an exhilarating rushing element to the Jets’ offense. He can evade trouble and secure first downs with his feet. Running back Breece Hall runs fiercely between the tackles and efficiently catches passes out of the backfield.

Garrett Wilson, a superstar receiver, consistently finds ways to get open against any type of coverage. Rookie tight end Mason Taylor possesses tremendous potential but will require time to develop. The defense is expected to keep games competitive while the offense strives to establish its identity.

24. New England Patriots

Drake Maye embarks on his second season equipped with significantly improved offensive weapons. Stefon Diggs brings veteran leadership and reliability, adeptly running every route and finding open spaces consistently. Rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson adds an element of speed to the rushing attack.

The offensive line has transitioned from being subpar to merely adequate, affording Maye more time to locate his receivers. The defense has also received reinforcements. Coaches Mike Vrabel and Josh McDaniels are in the midst of constructing a solid foundation for future success.

23. Seattle Seahawks

Running back Kenneth Walker faces a substantial workload this season, combining power running between the tackles with the ability to break outside for substantial gains. The Seahawks aim to impose their will on games by relying on the ground game and controlling the clock.

Quarterback Sam Darnold oversees the offense but struggles to generate explosive plays. Jaxon Smith-Njigba is emerging as the number one receiver, while Cooper Kupp brings experience but is aging. The defense features several young stars who are still acclimating to their roles.

22. Arizona Cardinals

Kyler Murray is finally back to full health and eager to showcase his speed once more. He can evade defenders and make precise throws while on the move. Marvin Harrison Jr. is poised to become his primary target this season, as they need to develop a strong rapport.

Tight end Trey McBride has proven to be reliable, catching passes thrown his way in crucial situations. James Conner runs with determination between the tackles, while rookie Trey Benson is eagerly waiting for his opportunity to shine. The defense has acquired pass rushers to increase pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

21. Atlanta Falcons

Michael Penix Jr. assumes control of an offense rich with youthful potential. Running back Bijan Robinson possesses impressive agility to navigate through defenders and break tackles in open space. Wide receiver Drake London excels in utilizing his size to secure contested catches and should soon emerge as a true star.

The offensive line ranks among the best in the league, granting Penix the time he needs to locate his targets downfield. The defense has brought in pass rushers to amplify their effectiveness in pressuring quarterbacks. If Penix delivers solid performances, Atlanta could prove surprising to many teams this season.

20. Jacksonville Jaguars

Trevor Lawrence must demonstrate that he can perform as an elite quarterback this season. He has at his disposal the strongest group of receivers he has ever worked with, including Brian Thomas Jr. and rookie sensation Travis Hunter, providing explosive options for downfield plays.

Travis Etienne Jr. possesses both power running ability and the skill to catch passes from the backfield. The offensive line is expected to deliver improved protection for Lawrence this year. Following last season’s difficulties, the Jaguars aspire for Lawrence to finally fulfill his potential and lead this talented roster.

19. Miami Dolphins

When in good health, the Dolphins showcase one of the most dynamic offenses in the league. Tua Tagovailoa delivers accurate passes to Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, who can outpace defenders and score from virtually anywhere on the field.

De'Von Achane has emerged as a dual-threat running back, adept at running and catching the football with equal finesse. Darren Waller adds an additional dimension to the passing game. If the roster can maintain good health, Miami has every chance to make a playoff return this season.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers

Aaron Rodgers brings invaluable championship experience to Pittsburgh, teaming up with DK Metcalf to form a formidable passing combination. Rodgers can still execute nearly every throw on the field, while Metcalf utilizes his size and speed to dominate in one-on-one situations.

Rookie Kaleb Johnson alongside Jaylen Warren provide the backfield with a solid balance. Additionally, the offensive line is projected to be healthier this year. The defense remains tough under coach Mike Tomlin. Even if Rodgers isn’t at his peak performance, the Steelers are primed for a playoff run.

17. Chicago Bears

The Bears have enlisted offensive innovator Ben Johnson to unlock their true potential. Quarterback Caleb Williams begins his second season with significantly better protection and improved weapons. The offensive line has been entirely revamped to ensure Williams has time to make good throws.

DJ Moore, Rome Odunze, and rookie tight end Colston Loveland are excellent targets for Williams. Remarkably, this offense has transitioned from struggling to electrifying in just one season. Should Williams take the expected leap forward, Chicago has the potential to astonish many in the NFC this year.

The Season Begins

Week 1 is consistently rife with unexpected twists and upsets. Certain teams will defy expectations right from the start, while others may experience a sluggish initiation before gathering momentum. The key lies in maintaining health and achieving incremental improvement week by week. Let the 2025 NFL season commence!