The preseason is underway. The trash talk is already flowing. So it’s time for one of my favorite traditions — the Mike’s 12 Pack.
These are my top 12 teams heading into the 2025 NFL season based on my full season predictions, which means I’ve already picked every game and run the playoff scenarios. These aren’t just “vibes” rankings — though, let’s be honest, vibes matter — this is a mix of roster talent, coaching, schedule, and what I think each team will look like come January.
1. Philadelphia Eagles
Predicted Record: 11-6 | NFC East Champions
The NFC East hasn’t had a repeat winner in 21 years… until now. The Eagles have talent everywhere, starting with Jalen Hurts and a loaded offense that has Saquon Barkley. Even if Saquon regresses, A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Dallas Goedert will keep the points flowing. Defensively, they might have two Rookie of the Year candidates in Jihaad Campbell and Andrew Makuba, plus Jalen Carter up front. I see them cruising through stretches of the season — but when the playoffs start, they’ll hit another gear.
2. Kansas City Chiefs
Predicted Record: 12-5 | AFC West Champions
Don’t let “only” 12 wins fool you — the Chiefs are still the AFC’s big boss. The offense should be sharper this year with Josh Simmons solidifying left tackle, Hollywood Brown and Xavier Worthy stretching the field, and a healthy Isiah Pacheco pounding the rock. Rashee Rice’s return gives Patrick Mahomes another trusted weapon. They’ll take a few odd losses, but they’re still the standard.
3. Buffalo Bills
Predicted Record: 11-6 | AFC East Champions
Call this my “vibe-check” pick. The Bills might not dominate the regular season the way they have in the past, but I see them peaking when it matters. Josh Allen still gives them a weekly advantage, and the roster is deep enough to weather tough stretches. My biggest question is Sean McDermott — if they fall short in the postseason again, change might be coming.
4. Los Angeles Rams
Predicted Record: 12-5 | NFC West Champions
If Matthew Stafford’s back holds up, this is one of the NFC’s scariest teams. The offense is stacked, the defensive line is loaded, and Sean McVay still knows how to get points on the board. Once they get a lead, this pass rush will make comebacks nearly impossible for opponents. They’re my top NFC West team for a reason.
5. Denver Broncos
Predicted Record: 10-7 | AFC Wild Card
Yes, I’m buying the hype — but for the right reasons. This defense could be the best in football with an elite pass rush, and the offense will control games with a quick, efficient passing game. Bo Nix doesn’t have to be a superstar — just smart and steady. I also love the RJ Harvey draft pick for this system.
6. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Predicted Record: 11-6 | NFC South Champions
Being the Texas Longhorn mega-fan that I am, I hate how much I like Baker Mayfield in 2025. With Bucky Irving, Chris Godwin, Emeka Egbuka, and Mike Evans, this offense can be dangerous. Todd Bowles’ defense will bring pressure, and Antoine Winfield Jr. coming back healthy is huge for the secondary. They’re the clear class of the NFC South.
7. Houston Texans
Predicted Record: 13-4 | AFC South Champions
My pick for best defense in the league. Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter on the edge, Derek Stingley Jr. locking down receivers — it’s unfair. CJ Stroud should take another leap with Nico Collins, and a fresh offensive coordinator should help the run game. Four losses might be generous for the rest of the AFC South.
8. Baltimore Ravens
Predicted Record: 11-6 | AFC North Champions
The Ravens will be very good — but I have questions. Derrick Henry at 31 isn’t a lock to repeat last year’s success, which could put too much on the passing game. The defense will still be tough, and Lamar Jackson is Lamar Jackson, but I think they’ll take a tiny step back from their absolute peak.
9. Cincinnati Bengals
Predicted Record: 11-6 | AFC Wild Card
The Bengals’ defense can’t possibly be worse than last season, right? Joe Burrow has all the weapons in the world, Ja’Marr Chase is a fantasy cheat code, and I think rookie Shemar Stewart will be a factor up front. If the defense can get to even league average, this is a Super Bowl contender.
10. Detroit Lions
Predicted Record: 10-7 | NFC Wild Card
This is still a good football team, but losing key coaches and center Frank Ragnow will hurt. I expect a slight step back offensively, but a healthier defense should help keep them in games. They’re still a tough out in the NFC, just maybe not quite the same bully they’ve been the past two years.
11. Washington Commanders
Predicted Record: 10-7 | NFC Wild Card
Jayden Daniels is already a star, and with Laremy Tunsil protecting him, this offense can move. The defense will be fast and aggressive, and if Terry McLaurin returns, this could be an even higher ranking by midseason. They might be the NFC’s most dangerous “wild card” in every sense.
12. Minnesota Vikings
Predicted Record: 10-7 | NFC North Champions
Kevin O’Connell and Brian Flores give the Vikings one of the best coach duos in the league. The defense will bring pressure, the offensive line is solid, and JJ McCarthy can ease in with Justin Jefferson making life easier. They’re my pick in a very tight NFC North race.
Closing Thoughts
This top 12 is based on how I see these teams entering the season — not necessarily how it will finish. Injuries, surprise breakouts, and the occasional “Mike, you were dead wrong” moment will shuffle this list. But for now, these are the squads I trust the most heading into Week 1.
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