Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton found himself in NFL rumors over a year ago, with his future with the team uncertain as several teams pursued a trade for him. Coming off a rebound year by the club, Sutton’s future in Denver has gained significant clarity.

Sutton, coming off his age-29 season, is coming off his best campaign since 2019. He played in 17 games for the first time since 2021, averaged 13.3 yards per reception for the first time in three years and eclipsed 1,000 yards for only the second time in his career.

Relate: Denver Broncos offseason moves to improve in 2025

• Courtland Sutton contract (Spotrac): $20.2 million cap hit in 2025, NFL free agent in 2026

He also displayed excellent chemistry with rookie quarterback Bo Nix, providing Denver with its first dependable quarterback-receiver duo in years. It also further highlighted the impact head coach Sean Payton has had on this Broncos offense. From 2021-’22, Sutton had just 803 receiving yards with 4 touchdowns in 32 games. In the last two seasons, he has 1,853 receiving yards with 18 touchdowns in 33 contests. Now, an extension could be coming.

According to Tony Pauline of Sportskeeda, the Broncos front office opened talks on a multi-year deal with Sutton’s agent at the NFL Combine. The conversations have reportedly been “encouraging” with both sides firmly committed to staying together for years to come.

Related: Denver Broncos coach arrested on suspicion of assault a police officer

• Courtland Sutton stats (ESPN): 81 receptions, 1,081 receiving yards, 8 touchdowns

While a contract extension isn’t imminent, Sutton and the Broncos are at least on the same page about working out a deal. When an extension comes, it would also allow Denver to reduce the cap hit for its No. 1 wide receiver next season.

Importantly, extending Sutton also won’t prevent the club from adding to its receiving corps with a ‘1B’ offensive weapon who complements Sutton’s skills and provides Nix with another playmaker. If all goes well this offseason, Denver’s receiving corps should be stronger in 2025 with multiple top pass-catchers under contract for years to come.

Related: NFL defense rankings, see where the Denver Broncos land for 2025

More must-reads:

• Philadelphia Eagles sign running back who missed entire 2024 season with neck injury to back up Saquon Barkley
• NFL insider says Carolina Panthers panicked in free agency
• Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones shockingly allows four-time Pro Bowl defensive stalwart to walk for nothing

Rob Gronkowski is one of the best tight ends in NFL history. Fans today don’t get to see him playing football anymore and instead have to resort to seeing Gronk provide his NFL analysis on Fox Sports.

That’s been the case since the end of the 2021 NFL season when Gronkowski retired from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at the age of 32. Now 35, the four-time Super Bowl champion may be thinking about playing pro football again.

Related: 1 bold prediction for every NFL team this offseason including the Denver Broncos

Rob Gronkowski reportedly mulling unretirement, could join Denver Broncos

Rob Gronkowski has already retired and returned to the NFL once. Could the future Hall of Famer be getting ready to do so again?

According to Denver Sports’ Cecil Lammey, Gronkowski is “considering a return to the NFL.”

Taking the report a step further, Gronk reportedly “loves” Denver and their quarterback Bo Nix. Plus, as Lammey notes, Gronkowski previously worked with Denver’s head coach Sean Payton at Fox Sports. Even Gronk’s brothers, Dan and Chris, played for the Broncos.

Now, Rob could reportedly be considering becoming the latest Gronkowski brother to play for the Broncos. He’d certainly fill a need in Denver, with the Broncos frequently projected to select someone like Penn State’s Tyler Warren or Michigan’s Colston Loveland in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Adding Gronk would reduce that need while adding a four-time former All-Pro with 11 years of NFL experience to the locker room.

Yet, he hasn’t played an NFL down since January 8, 2022. Would Gronk really suddenly return now?

Related: 2025 mock draft: Who needs a tight end?

More must-reads:

• Philadelphia Eagles sign running back who missed entire 2024 season with neck injury to back up Saquon Barkley
• NFL insider says Carolina Panthers panicked in free agency
• Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones shockingly allows four-time Pro Bowl defensive stalwart to walk for nothing

Former NFL player and current Denver Broncos linebackers coach Michael Wilhoite has been arrested on suspicion of second-degree assault of a police officer in Colorado.

As reported by Mike Klis of 9 News, Wilhoite was booked into Denver’s downtown jail on Sunday on suspicion of assaulting a police officer. According to jail records, the Broncos linebackers coach will appear in Denver County court on Monday morning.

Related: One offseason move every team should make, including Denver Broncos

• Michael Wilhoite career earnings (Spotrac): $5.914 million

While no details have been provided on the arrest or alleged incident, the Broncos did release a statement confirming they are aware of Wilhoite being arrested on accusations of second-degree assault of a law enforcement officer.

“We are aware of a situation involving Michael Wilhoite that occurred Sunday and are in the process of gathering more information.”

Denver Broncos team statement on the arrest of linebackers coach Michael Wilhoite

Related: Denver Broncos offseason moves to contend in 2025

Wilhoite, age 38, went undrafted in 2011 and started his pro football career with the Omaha Nighthawks of the United Football League. He joined the San Francisco 49ers practice squad in December 2011 then worked his way up the roster the following season. He became a two-year starter with the team from 2014-’15, totalling 129 solo tackles with 7 pass deflections and 7 tackles for loss in 28 starts over two seasons.

• Michael Wilhoite stats: 298 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 11 pass deflections, 4 interceptions in 79 games

After playing five seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, Wilhoite played for the Settle Seahawks in 2017 and made 9 starts in 14 games. Following his age-31 season, he was out of the league for two years before joining the New Orleans Saints coaching staff in 2019 as a special teams assistant.

Related: One NFL free agent each team should pursue, includes Denver Broncos

Wilhoite was part of the Saints coaching staff under Sean Payton from 2019-2020. He then joined the Los Angeles Chargers coaching staff, serving as linebackers coach from 2021-’22 before Payton hired him as the Broncos outside linebackers coach in 2023.

More must-reads:

• Philadelphia Eagles sign running back who missed entire 2024 season with neck injury to back up Saquon Barkley
• NFL insider says Carolina Panthers panicked in free agency
• Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones shockingly allows four-time Pro Bowl defensive stalwart to walk for nothing

Reaching the NFL Playoffs meant the Denver Broncos would be selecting a lot later than they did in 2024. Once their season was over, the Broncos wound up with the 20th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

While we wait for the next season to start, all analysts can focus on is how the Broncos can improve over the offseason. This means hundreds of Broncos mock drafts will take place between now and April 24, when the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft kicks off.

Recently, there was one that saw a “dream scenario” play out for Sean Payton’s team.

Related: Top 2025 NFL free agents: Ranking top 30 players in NFL free agency

ESPN’s 2025 NFL mock draft has Denver Broncos selecting Ashton Jeanty in ‘dream scenario’

While it’s fun to spend time projecting which player the Denver Broncos will draft in April, there’s a lot to be determined with NFL free agency yet to even begin. Surely, the Broncos’ roster needs will change over the next few months, but that doesn’t mean we can’t evaluate different scenarios anyway.

Recently, ESPN insider Field Yates revealed his latest edition of the 2025 NFL mock draft, where he sees a “dream scenario” playing out with University of Boise State’s running back Ashton Jeanty slipping to the 20th overall pick.

If Jeanty, who’s widely viewed as one of the best overall players in the 2025 draft class, falls out of the first half of the first round, that would certainly qualify as a “dream scenario” for any team that lucks into his selection.

Related: 2025 NFL mock draft: Latest Round 1 predictions for 2025 NFL Draft, No. 1 pick traded

More must-reads:

• Philadelphia Eagles sign running back who missed entire 2024 season with neck injury to back up Saquon Barkley
• NFL insider says Carolina Panthers panicked in free agency
• Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones shockingly allows four-time Pro Bowl defensive stalwart to walk for nothing

The 2024 NFL season drew to a close with the Philadelphia Eagles decimating the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIV. Many key Eagles players from that championship-winning performance will be among the NFL free agents in 2025. It makes NFL free agency this offseason particularly intriguing, especially with a new Super Bowl champion.

Related: Top NFL free agents 2025, ranking 30 best players

Below, we’re taking a look at NFL free agents by team right now. Of note, these are not rankings of the free agents and instead just lists whose contracts are expiring this offseason. You can also find NFL free agents by position 2025.

NFL free agents 2025: NFL free agents by team this offseason

Here are the NFL free agents by team entering the offseason. All players are unrestricted free agents (UFAs) unless otherwise mentioned as a Restricted Free Agent (RFA) or Exclusive Rights Free Agent). Info via Spotrac.com.

Related: 2025 NFL Draft order right now, NFL Draft picks by team

NFL free agents by position 2025

Also Read:: NFL Power Rankings 2025: Offseason previews for best, worst NFL teams

More must-reads:

• Philadelphia Eagles sign running back who missed entire 2024 season with neck injury to back up Saquon Barkley
• NFL insider says Carolina Panthers panicked in free agency
• Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones shockingly allows four-time Pro Bowl defensive stalwart to walk for nothing

Every year since 1966, the Super Bowl has given NFL teams a chance to prove who the league champions are on the biggest stage. Over the years, there have been many Super Bowl winners and losers, but which team has won the most Lombardi trophies? Which football player has more Super Bowl rings than any other in NFL history?

Who has the most Super Bowl wins? That depends if you’re talking among players or teams. Don’t worry, we’ve got all the answers.

Who was in the last five Super Bowls?

We realize sometimes it’s difficult to remember what you ate yesterday, let alone who played in the Super Bowl in February. Here are the Super Bowl participants from the past five years to help refresh your memory.

• Super Bowl LIX: Philadelphia Eagles vs Kansas City Chiefs
• Super Bowl LVIII: Kansas City Chiefs vs San Francisco 49ers
• Super Bowl LVII – Kansas City Chiefs vs Philadelphia Eagles
• Super Bowl LVI – Los Angeles Rams vs Cincinnati Bengals
• Super Bowl LV – Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Kansas City Chiefs

Related: Ranking 32 NFL QBs, from the worst to the best

Who are the Super Bowl winners the last 10 years?

Here are the Super Bowl winners from the past ten years.

• Super Bowl LIX – Philadelphia Eagles
• Super Bowl LVIII – Kansas City Chiefs
• Super Bowl LVII – Kansas City Chiefs
• Super Bowl LVI – Los Angeles Rams
• Super Bowl LV – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
• Super Bowl LIII – Kansas City Chiefs
• Super Bowl LII – Philadelphia Eagles
• Super Bowl LI – New England Patriots
• Super Bowl L – Denver Broncos
• Super Bowl XLIX – New England Patriots

Related: 5 biggest upsets in Super Bowl history, including Chiefs taking out Vikings

Four teams tied with one Super Bowl victory

There are a total of four teams with just one Super Bowl victory.

• New York Jets – 1969
• Chicago Bears – 1986
• New Orleans Saints – 2010
• Seattle Seahawks – 2014

While each team is in constant pursuit of becoming Super Bowl winners for a second time, it’s still better than the eight NFL teams who have never even won a league championship. In fact, there are four teams who have never even made a Super Bowl appearance, as sad as it is.

Related: NFL teams that have never won a Super Bowl

Six two-time Super Bowl winners

This is a little better group to be in if we’re separating Super Bowls by team. Each of the teams listed below has won two Lombardi trophies in their franchise history.

• Miami Dolphins
• Indianapolis Colts
• Baltimore Ravens
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers
• Los Angeles Rams
• Philadelphia Eagles

Even though the Ravens often looked like Super Bowl favorites in 2023, like the four others on this list, they’ll have to wait another year to become a three-time winner.

Related: Super Bowl records: Find out which NFL players have made history

Three-time Super Bowl champions includes group of historic NFL teams

Both the Denver Broncos and Las Vegas Raiders were founded in 1960, and coincidentally, they’re both AFC West Division foes. The Washington Commanders were founded in 1932, and they all have three NFL championships.

• Las Vegas Raiders
• Washington Commanders
• Denver Broncos

Related: 5 biggest blowouts in Super Bowl history

Green Bay Packers, New York Giants, Kansas City Chiefs – Four wins in Super Bowl history

Two more teams who have been around forever, the Green Bay Packers began play in 1919 and the New York Giants in 1925. Both teams have enjoyed historic victories in their time. There’s a reason why Vince Lombardi has the Super Bowl trophy named after him: the Packers were dominant in the 1960s.

As great as these two franchises once were, neither of them were able to return to Lombardi-land in 2023. Yet, after defeating the Dallas Cowboys in the Wild Card, the Packers got much further in the first year than anyone expected without Aaron Rodgers.

The Chiefs have never not gone to the AFC Championship game since Patrick Mahomes took over starting duties in 2018, and now Kansas City is one of three franchises to have a quartet of Super Bowl wins.

Related: Predicting NFL playoff bracket and Super Bowl 2025 winner

San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys – Five Super Bowl wins

Talk about dominance. The Dallas Cowboys had two eras to be proud of, with two Super Bowl wins in the 1970s and three more from 1984-94 thanks to a multitude of stars. The San Francisco 49ers have had some of the greatest players of all time and won a whopping five Super Bowls from 1981 to 1994. What a time to be alive.

While both of these franchises already have a legendary history, they both began as strong contenders in the 2024 postseason. Yet, the Cowboys are already done after getting walloped in the Wild Card round.

Now, after a three year break, the 49ers are just one game away from a Super Bowl win. After entering the playoffs as the NFC’s top seed, their odds to add a seventh trophy are as strong as ever.

Even though they couldn’t overcome the Chiefs, San Francisco has a rich talent pool, meaning its hopes of adding a sixth trophy to the team’s showcase could come as soon as the 2025 Super Bowl, as long as they qualify for the postseason again.

Related: Comparing Patrick Mahomes playoffs stats to all-time greats like Joe Montana, Tom Brady

Pittsburgh Steelers, New England Patriots – Six SB wins

Who has won the most Super Bowls? No team has more Super Bowls than the New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers, who each have six apiece. Eventually, there may be a team with more Super Bowl wins, but for now, the Steelers and Patriots have the ultimate bragging rights.

Both teams have started over at quarterback. For the Patriots, we’re likely at least a year away from competing for a Super Bowl. The Steelers have better chances, but it all depends on how well Russell Wilson and/or Justin Fields can spark this offense. While these two defenses have been as good as always, both teams’ offenses often held them back in 2023. We’ll see if that remains true in 2024.

Related: Super Bowl odds: Who is favored to win the Super Bowl 2025?

Players with the most Super Bowl wins

Teams have their own records, but players switch cities every offseason, meaning some players could win a Super Bowl every year if they have some luck. Which player has the most Super Bowl wins?

None other than Tom Brady of course. There’s a reason why they call him the GOAT. Seven Super Bowl rings will do that. Behind TB12 is pass rusher Charles Haley, who won two rings with the 49ers and three more with America’s Team.

Related: Updated NFL power rankings

Details about the Lombardi Trophy

It’s been said that the Lombardi Trophy takes a total of four months to construct, with up to 72 hours of labor put into the work, costing a total of $50,000 when all is said and done. Yet, the actual value of the trophy is just $10,000.

This means that when Tom Brady decided to throw the Super Bowl LV trophy from one boat to another during the Buccaneers’ Super Bowl parade after the 2021 season, even if it had landed at the bottom of the bay, it wouldn’t have been the end of the world.

Even though the trophy seems like it would weigh a hefty amount, it is constructed of sterling silver, which isn’t that dense. In all, the Lombardi weighs 107.3 ounces or roughly seven pounds. It has some weight, but not enough to deter anyone from trying to throw it like a football, or at least not Brady.

Also Read:: 2025 NFL Draft order: Picks by team, draft order and 2025 NFL Draft info

More must-reads:

• Philadelphia Eagles sign running back who missed entire 2024 season with neck injury to back up Saquon Barkley
• NFL insider says Carolina Panthers panicked in free agency
• Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones shockingly allows four-time Pro Bowl defensive stalwart to walk for nothing

The 2024 NFL season has officially drawn to a close with the Philadelphia Eagles winning Super Bowl LIX. Now, all 32 teams turn their focus to the pre-draft process in preparation for the 2025 NFL Draft. Below, we’ll take you through the 2025 NFL Draft order right now and NFL Draft picks by team.

Entering the offseason, every team has its own first-round pick. While that will certainly change during the 2025 NFL Draft, all 32 clubs would be making a first-round pick if the NFL Draft were held today. With all that said, let’s dive into the 2025 NFL Draft order after the Super Bowl. We’ve organized it by the current draft order for the first round, with draft picks by team listed below each club.

Related: 2025 NFL mock draft after the Super Bowl

2025 NFL Draft order: Round 1 order and NFL Draft picks by team

1. Tennessee Titans

• Tennessee Titans draft picks 2025:  1.01, 2.03, 4.01, 4.18, 5.03, 5.29, 6.02, 7.23

Related: NFL defense rankings 2025

2. Cleveland Browns

• Cleveland Browns draft picks 2025: 1.02, 2.01, 3.03, 3.30, 4.02, 5.26, 6.02, 6.16, 6.24, 6.38 (Compensatory), 6.39 (Compensatory), 7.39 (Compensatory)

Related: Worst NFL owners

3. New York Giants

• New York Giants draft picks 2025: 1.03, 2.02, 3.01, 4.03, 4.33 (Compensatory), 5.16, 7.03, 7.30

Related: NFL execs offer warning to New York Giants about 2025 NFL Draft

4. New England Patriots

• New England Patriots draft picks 2025: 1.04, 2.06, 3.05, 3.13, 4.04, 5.06, 7.01, 7.04, 7.22

Related: Best tight ends ever, see where Rob Gronkowski lands

5. Jacksonville Jaguars

• Jacksonville Jaguars draft picks 2025: 1.05, 2.04, 3.06, 3.24, 4.05, 4.24, 5.04, 6.06, 6.18, 7.05

Related: Grading NFL coaching hires 2025

6. Las Vegas Raiders

• Las Vegas Raiders draft picks 2025: 1.06, 2.05, 3.04, 3.09, 4.06, 5.05, 6.04, 6.36 (Compensatory), 6.40 (Compensatory), 7.06

Also Read:: NFL insider suggests Tom Brady could step away from FOX role to take over Las Vegas Raiders

7. New York Jets

• New York Jets draft picks 2025: 1.07, 2.10, 3.28, 4.08, 5.07, 5.18, 6.10, 6.32

Related: New York Jets received mixed reviews on Aaron Glenn hire, ‘dodged a bullet’ at GM

8. Carolina Panthers

• Carolina Panthers draft picks 2025: 1.08, 2.25, 3.10, 4.09, 4.12, 5.02, 5.08, 5.25, 7.11

Related: Regrading NFL coaching hires, including the Carolina Panthers

9. New Orleans Saints

• New Orleans Saints draft picks 2025: 1.09, 2.08, 3.07, 3.29, 4.10, 4.29, 6.08, 7.36 (Compensatory)

Related: NFL cap space by team 2025, potential cap casualties for all 32 teams

10. Chicago Bears

• Chicago Bears draft picks 2025: 1.10, 2.07, 2.09, 3.08, 5.10, 6.19, 7.17, 7.24

Related: Best landing spots for top NFL free agent QBs 2025

11. San Francisco 49ers

• San Francisco 49ers draft picks 2025: 1.11, 2.11, 3.11, 3.35 (Compensatory), 4.11, 4.37 (Compensatory), 4.38 (Compensatory), 6.11, 7.10, 7.14, 7.37 (Compensatory)

Related: Insider reveals likely cost of a Brock Purdy contract extension

12. Dallas Cowboys

• Dallas Cowboys draft picks 2025: 1.12, 2.12, 3.12, 5.11, 5.31 (Compensatory), 5.33 (Compensatory), 5.35 (Compensatory), 6.12, 6.33 (Compensatory), 7.32

Also Read:: NFL rumors: Dallas Cowboys have ‘internally’ discussed a Micah Parsons trade

13. Miami Dolphins

• Miami Dolphins draft picks 2025: 1.13, 2.16, 3.34 (Compensatory), 4.14, 4.34 (Compensatory), 5.12, 5.17, 7.08, 7.15, 7.34 (Compensatory)

Related: Richest NFL owners

14. Indianapolis Colts

• Indianapolis Colts draft picks 2025: 1.14, 2.13, 3.16, 4.15, 5.13, 6.13, 7.16

Related: Highest paid NFL coaches

15. Atlanta Falcons

• Atlanta Falcons draft picks 2025: 1.15, 2.14, 4.16, 7.26

Related: Top NFL free agents 2025

16. Arizona Cardinals

• Arizona Cardinals draft picks 2025: 1.16, 2.15, 3.14, 4.13, 5.14

Related: Early NFL free agency predictions 2025

17. Cincinnati Bengals

• Cincinnati Bengals draft picks 2025: 1.17, 2.17, 3.17, 4.17, 5.15, 6.17

Related: Top Cooper Kupp landing spots 2025

18. Seattle Seahawks

• Seattle Seahawks draft picks 2025: 1.18, 2.18, 3.18, 4.36 (Compensatory), 5.34 (Compensatory), 6.09, 6.34 (Compensatory), 7.18

Related Best NFL dynasties ever

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

• Tampa Bay Buccaneers draft picks 2025: 1.19, 2.21, 3.20, 4.19, 5.19, 7.19

Also Read: Worst MLB owners

20. Denver Broncos

• Denver Broncos draft picks 2025: 1.20, 2.19, 3.21, 4.20, 6.15, 6.21, 6.32

Related: Denver Broncos offseason moves to improve in 2025

21. Pittsburgh Steelers

• Pittsburgh Steelers draft picks 2025: 1.21, 2.20, 3.19, 4.21, 5.24, 7.07, 7.13, 7.29

Also Read:: Latest Pittsburgh Steelers news sheds light on 2025 QB plans, including NFL Draft

22. Los Angeles Chargers

• Los Angeles Chargers draft picks 2025: 1.22, 2.23, 3.22, 4.23, 5.20, 5.38 (Compensatory), 6.05, 6.23, 6.37 (Compensatory), 7.02 7.35 (Compensatory)

Related: Love Los Angeles Sports? Check out LAFBNetwork.com

23. Green Bay Packers

• Green Bay Packers draft picks 2025: 1.23, 2.22, 3.23, 4.22, 5.21, 6.22, 7.21, 7.33 (Compensatory)

Related: Green Bay Packers free agent targets 2025

24. Minnesota Vikings

• Minnesota Vikings draft picks 2025: 1.24, 3.33 (Compensatory), 5.01, 5.22

Related: Love Minnesota Sports? Check Out MinnesotaSportsFan.com

25. Houston Texans

• Houston Texans draft picks 2025: 1.25, 2.26, 3.25, 4.26, 5.28, 7.25

Also Read: Worst MLB farm systems, including Houston Astros

26. Los Angeles Rams

• Los Angeles Rams draft picks 2025: 1.26, 3.26, 3.36 (Compensatory), 4.25, 6.14, 6.25, 6.26

27. Baltimore Ravens

• Baltimore Ravens draft picks 2025: 1.27, 2.27, 3.27, 4.27, 4.35 (Compensatory(, 5.37 (Compensatory), 5.39 (Compensatory), 6.07, 6.27 6.25 (Compensatory), 7.27

Related: Super Bowl odds 2025

28. Detroit Lions

• Detroit Lions draft picks 2025: 1.28, 2.28, 3.37 (Compensatory), 4.32, 6.20, 7.09, 7.12, 7.28

Related: NFL teams that have never won a Super Bowl

29. Washington Commanders

• Washington Commanders draft picks 2025: 1.29, 2.29, 3.15, 5.09, 6.29, 7.20, 7.32

Related: Washington Commanders free agent targets 2025

30. Buffalo Bills

• Buffalo Bills draft picks 2025: 1.30, 2.24, 2.30, 4.07, 4.30, 5.32 (Compensatory), 5.36 (Compensatory), 6.01, 6.28, 6.30

Related: NFL power rankings 2025

31. Kansas City Chiefs

• Kansas City Chiefs draft picks 2025: 1.31, 2.31, 3.02, 3.31, 4.31, 7.38 (Compensatory)

Related: Comparing Patrick Mahomes playoff stats to all-time greats

32. Philadelphia Eagles

• Philadelphia Eagles draft picks 2025: 1.32, 2.32, 3.32, 4.28, 5.23, 5.27, 5.30

Related: Winners, Losers from Super Bowl LIX

More must-reads:

• Philadelphia Eagles sign running back who missed entire 2024 season with neck injury to back up Saquon Barkley
• NFL insider says Carolina Panthers panicked in free agency
• Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones shockingly allows four-time Pro Bowl defensive stalwart to walk for nothing

Who has the best NFL defense in 2025? Our weekly NFL defense rankings examine every unit across the league every week to determine the best defenses in the NFL. With the regular season over, we’re now providing NFL analysis for defensive matchups in the NFL playoffs.

With the 2024 NFL season officially over, Super Bowl LIX provided the latest example of how defense wins championships. Unsurprisingly, the Philadelphia Eagles sit atop our NFL defense rankings entering the offseason. We’ve ranked all 32 defenses ahead of free agency and the NFL Draft, providing an overview of team needs and free agents by team on the defensive side of the ball.

Related: Winners, Losers from Super Bowl LIX

NFL defensive statistics are from ESPN, RBSDM.com and Pro Football Reference.

NFL defense rankings 2025: Worst NFL defenses

32. Carolina Panthers

• Carolina Panthers free agents (defense): SS Jordan Fuller, LB Shaq Thompson, SS Nick Scott, S Xavier Woods, CB Michael Jackson, S Sam Franklin
• Carolina Panthers team needs (defense): EDGE, S, LB, CB

The Carolina Panthers had the worst defense in the NFL in 2024. Everyone expected it considering the lack of quality high-end talent on the roster and injuries only made it worse. Pro Bowl defensive tackle Derrick Brown played in just a single game, linebacker Shaq Thompson made just 4 starts and cornerback Jaycee Horn had an up-and-down season.

While it might be surprising that Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero was retained for the 2025 season, he is still well-regarded as a play-caller around the league. Carolina needs to find the talent to make his defense effective. That starts with finding a No. 1 pass rusher and then potentially a No. 1 cornerback, with Horn (92.7 QB rating allowed and 6 touchdowns allowed in coverage) at the very least needing more help opposite of him. Given the number of holes on this side of the ball, the best-case scenario for Carolina might be a top-25 defense in 2025.

31. New Orleans Saints

• New Orleans Saints free agents (defense): EDGE Chase Young, FS Tyrann Mathieu, ILB Willie Gay Jr, CB Paulson Adebo, S Will Harris
• New Orleans Saints team needs (defense): EDGE, DT, CB, S

Father Time and an awful recent New Orleans Saints draft history have decimated this defense. Edge rusher Cameron Jordan and linebacker Demario Davis are both entering their age-36 seasons, with both having demonstrated glaring signs of decline in 2024. New Orleans has attempted to find their replacements – Pete Werner, Payton Turner, Bryan Bresee and Isaiah Foskey – but the results have been an alarming disappointment.

Related: Best NFL players of all time

Given the Saints’ cap situation, it’s very possible that No. 1 corner Paulso Adebo will depart in NFL free agency and the same could be said for edge rusher Chase Young. That leaves an even greater talent void on this roster, all with a new defensive coordinator coming in. There are very few avenues to fill the talent void on this side of the ball, fueling our belief this will be one of the worst NFL defenses in 2025.

30. Jacksonville Jaguars

• Jacksonville Jaguars free agents (defense): FS Andre Cisco, DE Esezi Otomewo, DT Jeremiah Ledbetter,
• Jacksonville Jaguars team needs (defense): CB, DT, S

The Jacksonville Jaguars defense had one of the biggest fall-offs from 2023 to 2024. Two years ago, Jacksonville finished 13th in Defensive EPA per Play (-0.038) with the 10th-lowest scoring rate (32.3%) allowed to opponents. In 2024, Jacksonville finished 31st in Defensive EPA per Play (0.131) and opponents’ scoring rate (45.6%). We do see some reason for optimism, however.

Related: 2025 NFL mock draft

Travon Walker recorded his second consecutive season with double-digit sacks (10.5) and he recorded the ninth-highest ESPN run-stop win rate (30%) among edge defenders. While Josh Hines-Allen’s sack production plummeted (17.5 to 8.0) and his total pressures (46 to 29) dropped, he still had the 13th-best PFF pass-rush win rate (15.9%) at his position. New Jaguars defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile has an outstanding track record with off-ball linebackers, which bodes well for Foyesade Ouokun and Devin Lloyd. Cornerback and defensive tackle are obvious needs, but Jacksonville is in a good position to land either Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham or cornerback Will Johnson. Either would be a massive addition, which could help fuel a top-20 defense in 2025.

29. New England Patriots

• New England Patriots free agents (defense): CB Jonathan Jones, S Brenden Schooler, S Jaylin Hawkins, DE Christian Elliss, OLB Oshane Ximines, DT Daniel Ekuale
• New England Patriots team needs (defense): EDGE, CB

Coaching and injuries were two of the biggest issues for the New England Patriots defense in 2024. Christian Barmore played in just 4 games, while Ja’Whaun Bentley (2 games) and Jabrill Peppers (6 games) combined for just 8 starts. With this unit also poorly coached, it’s no surprise that New England ranked bottom 10 in third-down defense (43.3% conversion rate) and red-zone defense (63.2% touchdown rate). We anticipate significant improvements next season.

Related: Best NFL dynasties ever

Not only does New England have more than $100 million in cap space to invest on this side of the ball, it could also land a No. 1 edge rusher (Abdul Carter) atop the 2025 NFL Draft. With Mike Vrabel coming in, it’s reasonable to expect this to be a more disciplined and better-prepared team. The additions still need to be made talent-wise, but the Patriots can be a riser in our NFL defense rankings as the offseason unfolds.

28. Tennessee Titans

• Tennessee Titans free agents (defense): SS Quandre Diggs, DT Marlon Davidson, DT Keondre Coburn, CB Darrell Baker Jr, DT Sebastian Joseph, OLB Jerome Baker
• Tennessee Titans team needs (defense): CB, EDGE, ILB

Tennessee Titans defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson exceeded expectations in his first season, accomplishing far more than anyone should’ve expected from this unit. However, there was a steep fall-off late in the regular season (30th in Defensive EPA per Play from Weeks 12-18) which highlighted the need for significant additions this offseason.

Related: Tennessee Titans reportedly may trade No. 1 pick, sign Pro Bowl QB

Fortunately, Tennessee does have a defensive front, which it can feel relatively good about. Jeffery Simmons (12% Pass-Rush Win Rate, 10th among DTs) and T’Vondre Sweat have the making of an excellent tandem on the defensive line, fueling the team to record the 12th-highest pass-rush win rate (42 percent). It’s the secondary and edge rusher that need to be addressed, with L’Jarius Sneed and Chidobe Awuzie both massive liabilities in coverage this past season. Addressing one of those positions in Round 1 and the other in free agency would help a turnaround in 2025.

27. Cincinnati Bengals

• Cincinnati Bengals free agents (defense): CB Mike Hilton, SS Vonn Bell, EDGE Joseph Ossai, DT B.J. Hill, CB Marco Wilson
• Cincinnati Bengals team needs (defense): DT, EDGE, CB

It would be wise for the Cincinnati Bengals to work out a Trey Hendrickson contract extension this offseason because this defense can’t afford to lose him. In 2024, Cincinnati ranked 20th in pass-rush win rate (37%) and 26th in sac rate (5.8%), that is with Hendrickson’s 54 pressures and 17.5 sacks.

Related: NFL trade candidates 2025

The change in defensive coordinator to Al Golden should generate some marginal improvements, but there’s a lot more work to be done. Sam Hubbard’s fall off (8 pressures in 14 games) creates a glaring hole at edge rusher opposite of Hendrickson. Cincinnati also doesn’t have a No. 1 cornerback, with Cam Taylor-Britt (98.0 QB rating and 6 touchdowns allowed) giving up far too many big plays while Daxton Hill has allowed a career 105.0 QB rating in 37 games. Barring major additions, this projects to be one of the worst NFL defenses next season.

26. Indianapolis Colts

• Indianapolis Colts free agents (defense): LB E.J. Speed, S Julian Blackmon, DE Dayo Odeyingbon, DT Taven Bryan, OLB Grant Stuard
• Indianapolis Colts team needs (defense): S, CB, LB

The Indianapolis Colts defense became all too predictable in recent years, forcing the franchise to finally cut ties with Gus Bradley. Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo will have a nice defensive line to work with, with Kwity Paye, DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart all above-average starters. It’s everything behind the defensive front that is concerning.

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Indianapolis led the NFL in missed tackles (157) last season, 23 more than the second-worst team. Putting that stat in greater perspective, the Colts missed more tackles than the Minnesota Vikings (79) and Baltimore Ravens (76) combined. Indianapolis also must fix a secondary that allowed the seventh-most passing yards per game in 2024, but Colts general manager Chris Ballard hasn’t exactly demonstrated a willingness to address this long-standing need in recent offseasons. Until he does, we view this as a bottom-10 defense that wastes a strong front four.

25. New York Giants

• New York Giants free agents (defense): LB Isaiah Simmons, CB Adoree Jackson, EDGE Azeez Ojulari, ILB Matthew Adams, CB Elijah Riley, OLB Patrick Johnson, FS Jason Pinnock
• New York Giants team needs (defense): CB, DT, LB

Before the season-ending injury to Dexter Lawrence in Week 12, the New York Giants defense ranked 23rd in Defensive EPA per Play (0.042) with a 34.15% third-down conversion rate allowed. In the final six games, New York allowed a 47.6% third-down conversion rate and ranked 29th in EPA per Play. Getting the All-Pro defensive tackle back is the first step toward a 2025 turnaround.

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Obviously, it won’t be enough for New York to even field an above-average defense. That’s because while this front finished top-13 in pass-rush win rate (41% and run-stop win rate (32%), the secondary was an Achilles’ heel for this team. Finding a quality starter on the outside would do wonders for this pass defense and a run-stuffing interior lineman next to Lawrence would shore up a unit that allowed the sixth-most rushing yards per game (136.2) this past season.

24. Cleveland Browns

• Cleveland Browns free agents (defense): DT Maurice Hurst, ILB Devin Bush, FS Rodney McLeod, ILB Khaleke Hudson, CB Michael Ford, OLB James Houston
• Cleveland Browns team needs (defense): EDGE, LB, CB

The Myles Garrett trade request adds a significant deal of uncertainty for the Cleveland Browns defense entering the offseason. For now, the Browns front office is adamant it won’t trade the Defensive Player of the Year. However, the number of holes on the Browns roster could eventually convince Cleveland to flip Garrett for a haul of premium draft picks. For now, we’ll operate under the assumption Garrett is in a Browns uniform next season.

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With Garrett, Cleveland recorded the third-highest pressure rate (26.5%) in the NFL last season but it ranked 28th in yards per pass attempt allowed (7.6). Prior to the season-ending injury to Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, the Browns did allow just a 59.1% completion rate and 7.3 ypa to opponents. With very little wiggle room to reload, a defensive turnaround in 2025 is dependent on Garrett sticking around and rebound seasons from corners Greg Newsome II and Denzel Ward.

23. Las Vegas Raiders

• Las Vegas Raiders free agents (defense): S Marcus Epps, LB Robert Spillane, DT John Jenkins, S Trevon Moehrig, DT Adam Butler, EDGE Malcolm Koonce, LB Divine Deable, CB Nate Hobbs, CB Darnay Holmes
• Las Vegas Raiders team needs (defense): CB, ILB, EDGE

The Las Vegas Raiders already made their first step towards defensive improvement in 2025 by retaining Patrick Graham. Injuries – Christian Wilkins, Maxx Crosby and Malcolm Koonce – resulted in the steep decline of the Raiders’ pass rush. However, an even bigger problem was the absence of improvement in the secondary which resulted in Las Vegas allowing the fifth-most passing touchdowns (29) in the NFL this past season.

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Even with a healthy Wilkins and Crosby, Las Vegas needs to find another edge rusher. Former first-round pick Tyree Wilson (28 pressures and 8 sacks in 33 games) just hasn’t put it together. While a third-year breakout is possible, Las Vegas can’t rely on him. There’s a far more pressing need in the secondary, but elite talent isn’t necessary. If the Raiders can just get quality play out of their cornerbacks, with a strong pass rush, this can be a top-18 defense next season.

22. Chicago Bears

• Chicago Bears free agents (defense): EDGE Darrell Taylor, OLB Jake Martin, DT Chris Williams, LB Amen Ogbongbemiga
• Chicago Bears team needs (defense): EDGE, DT, FS, CB

Chicago Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen is the perfect hire for this team. As a twice-failed head coach, the organization doesn’t have to worry about him being poached for another job. Plus, this allows Allen to focus on what he does best. When he ran the Saints defense before its dramatic fall-off due to roster mismanagement, New Orleans ranked third in Defensive EPA per Play (-0.054) and second in Defensive Success Rate (41.6%) from 2019-2022. With that said, there’s work to be done.

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It starts up front. Montez Sweat was a major disappointment in his first full season with Chicago, netting just 22 pressures and 5.5 sacks in 16 games. With their No. 1 edge rusher ineffective, the Bears ranked 24th in pass-rush win rate (37%). Beyond a rebound season from Sweat, along with CB Tyrique Stevenson, Chicago needs to find a pass-rushing specialist on both the interior and edge. If those positions are addressed, Allen can make this a top-15 defense in a best-case outcome.

21. Atlanta Falcons

• Atlanta Falcons free agents (defense): EDGE Matthew Judon, FS Justin Simmons, OLB Lorenzo Carter, EDGE Kentavius Street, S Richie Grant, CB Antonio Hamilton, DT Eddie Goldman, CB Mike Hughes
• Atlanta Falcons team needs (defense): EDGE, LB, DT

The most important component of a successful defense is the ability to generate pressure consistently. Look at the best NFL defenses in 2024, they all ranked near the top of the league in pressure rate and pass-rush win rate. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons placed 27th in pass-rush win rate (34%) and 25th in pressure rate (20%).

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So, that’s the obvious need the Falcons need to attack both in NFL free agency and the 2025 NFL Draft. Atlanta has a No. 1 corner in A.J. Terrell paired with a playmaker at safety in Jessie Bates. If a few additions are made and this can even be a league-average pass rush in 2025, it will make a world of difference for the Falcons pass defense.

NFL defense rankings: Top 20 defenses entering offseason

20. Arizona Cardinals

• Arizona Cardinals free agents (defense): EDGE Kyzir White, OLB Dennis Gardeck, DE LJ Collier, LB Baron Browning, OLB Julian Okwara, DT Roy Lopez
• Arizona Cardinals team needs (defense): EDGE, DT, CB

The fact that the Arizona Cardinals place 20th in our NFL defense rankings 2025 is a testament to head coach Jonathan Gannon and defensive coordinator Nick Rallis. Arizona has Pro Bowl safety Budda Baker, but he’s about the only standout on this side of the ball. However, safety Jalen Thompson (76.2 PFF grade) and edge defender Zaven Collins (85.4 PFF grade) did perform well against the run this past season.

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There are some obvious areas for improvement in Arizona, coming off a season that saw this unit allow the fifth-highest third-down conversion rate (43.8%) with the 10th-most red-zone attempts (57) and the fifth-most yards per drive (34.8). It all starts up front, with a glaring need for a difference-maker on the defensive line. Adding more juice to this pass rush and finding another starting-caliber corner would really help Gannon and Rallis elevate this defense. At a minimum, Arizona needs to improve its defensive line this offseason.

19. New York Jets

• New York Jets free agents (defense): EDGE Haason Reddick, CB D.J. Reed, DT Javon Kinlaw, S Chuck Clark, S, Tony Adams, S Ashtyn Davis, DE Solomon Thomas, DT Leki Fotu
• New York Jets team needs (defense): CB, DT, S

We have all the confidence in the world that head coach Aaron Glenn can help get this New York Jets defense back on track. After all, he’s taking over a unit that still boasts Sauce Gardner, Quinnen Williams, C.J. Mosley and Quincy Williams. Mosley isn’t a safe bet to stay healthy, but New York would still have two All-Pro talents and an above-average starter and Glenn had success with far less as the Detroit Lions defensive coordinator.

Related: Aaron Glenn targeting Detroit Lions free agent to bolster New York Jets defense

The blue-chip talent ensures this shouldn’t be one of the worst NFL defenses in 2025, but New York is likely losing cornerback D.J. Reed Jr to the open market. It creates a void opposite of Gardner, one that will become an even bigger issue if the Jets can’t find a playmaker at free safety. A top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft can solve one of those problems, but one addition won’t be enough for a massive turnaround. Realistically, the ceiling here is a top-14 defense next season.

18. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

• Tampa Bay Buccaneers free agents 2025 (defense): LB Lavonte Davis, DT Greg Gaines, OLB Joe Tryon, OLB Anthony Nelson, EDGE William Gholston, CB Bryce Hall, S Mike Edwards
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers team needs (defense): EDGE, CB, LB

When reviewing how this Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense in 2024, it’s worth keeping injuries in mind. While defensive tackle Calijah Kancey had a breakout year (17 QB hits and 7.5 sacks), he missed 5 games. All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr appeared in just 9 games and No. 1 cornerback Jamel Dean was out for 5 weeks.

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Even with the injuries, Tampa Bay had a few strengths defensively. The Buccaneers had one of the best NFL run defenses in 2024, allowing the fourth-fewest rushing yards per game (97.8). This group also ranked 14th in passing touchdown rate (4.3%), red-zone touchdown rate (54.4%) and third-down defense (38.1%). This offseason, Tampa Bay needs to find a top pass rusher. It will round out the defensive line and create a more consistent pass rush, which in turn will make a healthier secondary look better next season.

17. Washington Commanders

• Washington Commanders free agents 2025 (defense): LB Bobby Wagner, S Jeremy Chinn, EDGE Dante Fowler Jr, CB Michael Davis, CB Noah Igbinoghene, CB Benjamin St-Juste
• Washington Commanders team needs 2025 (defense): EDGE, CB

Dan Quinn maximized a Washington Commanders defense that didn’t have a ton of talent this past season. Even with the Marshon Lattimore trade not yielding the results Washington hoped for, free-agent acquisitions Bobby Wagner, Jeremy Chinn, Dorance Armstrong, Dante Fowler Jr and Frankie Luvu all worked out well.

The ability to hit on the second and third-tier free agents bodes extremely well moving forward. That’s because the Commanders are among the leaders in cap space this offseason, meaning top-end talent at edge rusher and cornerback can join Quinn’s defense and take this unit to another level.

Related: Washington Commanders free agent targets 2025

16. Miami Dolphins

• Miami Dolphins free agents (defense): FS Jevon Holland, ILB Tyrell Dodson, EDGE Emmanuel Ogbah, OLB Duke Riley, EDGE Calais Campbell, FS Jordan Poyer, S Siran Neal, ILB Anthony Walker Jr
• Miami Dolphins team needs (defense): CB, S, DT

The Miami Dolphins benefitted from the change at defensive coordinator last offseason, with Anthony Weaver maximizing a roster that just didn’t connect with Vic Fangio. What’s remarkable about Miami’s success defensively this past year – -0.023 Defensive EPA per Play (8th) and 29.4 yards per drive allowed (7th) – is that it largely came without edge rushers Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb.

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Weaver helped edge rusher Chop Robinson, meant to be a developmental player, record 20 pressures and 6 sacks in his rookie campaign. That’s a promising sign heading into Robinson’s second season, especially if either Chubb or Phillips can be healthy. There are some areas of concern, however. Calais Campbell is a free agent and this secondary allowed an 11-3 TD-INT ratio with a 95.4 QB rating in its final six games. We do tend to believe safety Jevon Holland will be re-signed or tagged, but further improvement defensively requires Miami to find more help at defensive tackle and corner.

15. San Francisco 49ers

• San Francisco 49ers free agents (defense): CB Charvarius Ward, LB Dre Greenlaw, S Talanoa Hufanga, LB De’Vondre Campbell, DT Kevin Givens, CB Isaac Yiadom, DT Khalil Davis, CB Rock Ya-Sin
• San Francisco 49ers team needs (defense): ILB, DT, CB, S

Reuniting with Robert Saleh might be one of the best NFL offseason moves in 2025. During his tenure as the San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator (2017-2020), Saleh orchestrated a unit that ranked seventh in Defensive EPA per Play (-0.027) from 2018-’20, with one of the best pass defenses in the NFL. With that said, San Francisco has significantly less talent defensively than it did during his first tenure as play-caller.

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Of the 49ers free agents on defense, safety Talanoa Hufanga and linebacker Dre Greenlaw are the only obvious candidates to re-sign. Charvarius Ward won’t be back, for reasons everyone can understand, but that creates a hole at CB2 opposite of Renardo Green. Still, the 49ers secondary and linebacker corps should be in good shape if Greenlawa and Hufanga return. If the 49ers can find a quality starter at either cornerback or defensive tackle in free agency, the other spot could be addressed early in the NFL Draft. With Saleh back, there’s a path to this being one of the 10 best NFL defenses in 2025.

14. Pittsburgh Steelers

• Pittsburgh Steelers free agents 2025 (defense): CB Donte Jackson, LB Elandon Roberts, S Damontae Kazee, CB Cam Sutton, ILB Tyler Matakevich
• Pittsburgh Steelers team needs (defense): CB, DE, NT, S

T.J. Watt wasn’t the same – 0 sacks and 0 QB hits – after suffering an ankle injury on Dec. 15 against the Philadelphia Eagles. However, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense began crumbling long before that. From Weeks 13-18, opponents averaged 253 passing yards and 114.2 rushing yards per game with a 14-5 TD-INT line, 72.5% completion rate and a 105.2 QB rating.

That same defense showed up against the Baltimore Ravens, who erupted for 300 rushing yards with a 6.0 yards-per-carry average. Even without No. 1 receiver Zay Flowers, Lamar Jackson still finished with a 132.0 QB rating, 2-0 TD-INT line and a 76.2% completion rate. With some key players hitting free agency and this unit getting progressively worse, there’s a real likelihood this unit will take a step backward in 2025. Pittsburgh does have to start thinking about age regression from 36-year-old Cam Heyward, but it does help to have Alex Highsmith, Keeanu Benton and Joey Porter Jr. as long-term cornerstones of this Steelers defense.

Related: Latest Pittsburgh Steelers news on team’s 2025 QB plans

13. Kansas City Chiefs

• Kansas City Chiefs free agents 2025 (defense): S Justin Reid, EDGE Charles Omenihu, LB Nick Bolton, DT Derrick Nnadi, EDGE Joshua Uche, DT Mike Pennel
• Kansas City Chiefs team needs 2025 (defense): EDGE, DT, CB, LB

The second-half decline from the Kansas City Chiefs defense in 2024 can in part be traced back to the injury suffered by No. 2 cornerback Jaylen Watson. He proved to be a very effective No. 2 corner (75.4 QB rating allowed) when healthy, especially with All-Pro corner Trent McDuffie more than capable of taking on No. 1 receivers. Of course, this Chiefs defense can also feel good heading into the offseason because Steve Spagnuolo and Chris Jones are back for the 2025 campaign.

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With that acknowledged, general manager Brett Veach still has some work to do. George Karlfatis (37 pressures and 8 sacks) is a good edge rusher, but he hasn’t quite become that No. 1 guy that the Chiefs need to complement Jones’ disruptive presence on the interior. A big splash addition isn’t likely, but Kansas City could certainly use another consistent pass-rushing threat. The Chiefs will also need to replace Nick Bolton, possibly finding someone who can cover tight ends. Those are the top needs, but it might also be time for the Chiefs to find a counterpart to Jones at defensive tackle.

12. Los Angeles Chargers

• Los Angeles Chargers free agents (defense): EDGE Khalil Mack, DE Morgan Gox, CB Kristian Fulton, LB Denel Perryman, CB Asant Samuel Jr, LB Troy Dye, DL Poona Ford
• Los Angeles Chargers team needs (defense): EDGE, CB, ILB

Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator did marvelous work with this unit in 2024. It certainly helps that rookie Tarheeb Still (82.3 QB rating allowed in coverage) emerged as a quality starter in his first season and safety Derwin James Jr. recaptured his All-Pro form. Minter maximized this young secondary and this pass defense could be even better if Los Angeles finds a quality replacement for Asante Samuel Jr.

Related: Los Angeles Chargers Draft Picks 2025

That still leaves a glaring question mark at edge rusher. Khalil Mack is a free agent and the Joey Bosa contract makes him a likely cap causality. Even if Mack re-signs Los Angeles needs to replace Bosa with someone more reliable. Upgrading over Mosa combined with this team entering its second year in Minter’s system should allow the Chargers to have a top-12 defense next fall.

11. Los Angeles Rams

• Los Angeles Rams free agents 2025 (defense): DT Mike Hoecht, SS John Johnson, LB Chrisitan Rozeboom, CB Ahkello Witherspoon, DT Bobby Brown, DE Neville Gallimore, LB Troy Reeder
• Los Angeles Rams team needs (defense): CB, ILB

In his first year as defensive coordinator, Chris Shula got far more out of this Los Angeles Rams defense than we expected. It certainly helped that rookie Jared Verse played like a Pro Bowle dge rusher and fellow rookie Braden Fiske was also a standout in 2024.  Together, with the help of second-year defensive linemen Kobie Turner and Byron Young, Los Angeles has an excellent defensive line it can depend on for the next two-plus years.

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It’s now time to overhaul the rest of this Rams defense. Thanks to poor play at off-ball linebacker, Los Angeles had the seventh-most missed tackles (119) in the NFL this past year. To make matters worse, this secondary allowed the 10th-highest passer rating (96.5) and the seventh-highest ypa (7.6). Realistically, both outside corner spots could be addressed and the Rams are getting replacement-level play at linebacker. Addressing all four spots is implausible, but even two additions would have a noticeable on-field impact.

Best NFL defenses 2025

10. Buffalo Bills

• Buffalo Bills free agents (defense): CB Rasul Douglas, DT Quinton Johnson, DT Jordan Phillips, S Damar Hamlin
• Buffalo Bills draft needs 2025 (defense): CB, EDGE, DT

One thing Sean McDermott has demonstrated throughout his tenure as the Buffalo Bills head coach is that he can really get this unit to play at a high level amid injuries. The good news for Buffalo is that Christian Benford, Matt Milano and Taron Johnson will all be healthy heading into the summer. Buffalo can also feel good about part of its defensive line with Ed Oliver and Greg Rousseau forming a strong tandem.

In terms of the Bills draft needs, our focus returns to the trenches. A.J. Epensa just isn’t anywhere close to being a championship-caliber edge rusher and DaQuan Jones showed signs of losing the battle to Father Time ahead of his age-33 season. Whether it is trading for a No. 1 edge rusher or prioritizing the position in the 2025 NFL Draft, Buffalo needs to find a game-wrecker this offseason.

Related: Buffalo Bills could poach Kansas City Chiefs starter in NFL free agency

9. Green Bay Packers

• Green Bay Packers free agents 2025 (defense): DT T.J. Slaton, LB Isaiah McDuffie, CB Eric Stokes, CB Corey Ballentine, S Zayne Anderson, LB Eric Wilson
• Green Bay Packers team needs (defense): EDGE, CB, DT

The hiring of defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley worked out beautifully for the Green Bay Packers. After years of being saddled with one of the worst run defenses in the NFL, Green Bay finished seventh against the run in 2024. Meanwhile, Xavier McKinney delivered an All-Pro season and rookies Edgerrin Cooper and Evan Williams look like stars in their own right. Fellow 2024 draft class member Javon Bullard (58th overall pick) also has a promising future. All of this talent will be on team-friendly contracts for the next three seasons.

However, there are some glaring holes in the Packers defense. Rashan Gary appears nowhere close to replicating his production from before his contract extension and Jaire Alexander is no longer reliable to play even 12 games. Green Bay needs to find a No. 1 edge rusher this offseason and potentially a high-end cornerback. Getting both in the same offseason will prove difficult.

Related: Green Bay Packers free agent targets 2025

8. Dallas Cowboys

• Dallas Cowboys free agents (defense): EDGE DeMarcus Lawrence, LB Eric Kendricks, CB Jourdan Lewis, DT Linval Joseph, DT Osa Odighizuwa
• Dallas Cowboys team needs (defense): DT, LB, S

As questionable of a decision as the Dallas Cowboys made with the hiring of Brian Schottenheimer, they landed an excellent defensive coordinator in Matt Eberflus. What makes it an even more exciting fit is the fact he’s never had a pass rusher like Micah Parsons. He also will have two high-end cornerbacks he can trust in coverage with Trevon Diggs and Daron Bland.

However, DeMarcus Lawrence is a free agent and edge rusher DeMarvion Overshown (knee) isn’t a certainty to play in 2025. The lack of pass-rushing depth and concerns at linebacker linger over this team heading into the offseason, but we can absolutely see Eberflus orchestrating a top-10 defense in 2025. The ceiling for this Cowboys defense is even higher if Lawrence returns or Dallas finds an answer in the middle (DT and ILB) of its defense.

Related: Insider sheds light on position Dallas Cowboys will prioritize in 2025 NFL Draft

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7. Denver Broncos

• Denver Broncos free agents 2025 (defense): LB Cody Barton, LB Zach Cunningham, DT D.J. Jones, CB Tremon Smith, LB Justin Strnad
• Denver Broncos team needs (defense): LB, S

The Denver Broncos had one of the best NFL defenses in 2024. Under defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, this unit took a massive leap forward and finished the regular season ranked second in ESPN Pass Rush Win Rate (46 percent) and first in Defensive EPA per Play (-0.100). With Joseph seemingly not getting a head-coaching gig in 2025, Denver gets him back next season.

There’s still plenty of room for this unit to improve. No. 2 corner Riley Moss played very well in his first full season as a starter opposite of Pat Surtain II, demonstrating he can be a long-term starter. Now, Denver needs to replace safety P.J. Locke and shore up a run defense that allowed 110-plus yards in four of its last five games.

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6. Baltimore Ravens

• Baltimore Ravens free agents 2025 (defense): CB Tre’Davious White, LB Malik Harrison, EDGE Brent Urban, CB Brandon Stephens, ILB Kristian Welch
• Baltimore Ravens team needs (defense): EDGE, CB

One of the biggest priorities for the Baltimore Ravens this offseason needs to be replacing cornerback Brandon Stephens. He was one of the worst NFL cornerbacks in 2024, allowing over 900 receiving yards with a 106.1 QB rating in 17 starts. If Baltimore can find a reliable No. 2 cornerback, this can be the best pass defense in the NFL next season.

Another area for improvement is at edge rusher. Baltimore does a good job maximizing what it has and it helped lead Kyle Van Noy to have a phenomenal season at age 34, but he likely can’t replicate that. The issue for Baltimore, with less than $20 million in cap space, will be figuring out how to address both spots adequately. The good news is, a majority of Baltimore’s defensive starters are under contract for 2025.

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5. Detroit Lions

• Detroit Lions free agents (defense): CB Carlton Davis, DT Levi Onwuzurike, LB Derrick Barnes, EDGE Marcus Davenport, DB Ifeatu Melifonwu, CB Emmanuel Mosley, DE Al-Quadin Muhammad
• Detroit Lions team needs (defense): EDGE, LB

With the season over, it’s worth revisiting just how good this Detroit Lions defense was before injuries wiped nearly everyone out. From Weeks 1-11, opponents averaged just a 73.6 QB rating with a 7-14 TD-INT ratio, 94.9 rushing yards per game with a 30.36% third-down conversion rate. Over that same span, Detroit ranked second in Defensive EPA per Play (-0.117). Fortunately, Aidan Hutchinson, Alim McNeill, Malcolm Rodriguez, Amik Robertson and Ennis Rakestraw Jr will all return healthy in 2025.

The lingering question is what happens now that Aaron Glenn is gone. New Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, who Steve Spagnuolo called a future NFL head coach, will likely face a learning curve in his first season as a play-caller. Fortunately, Detroit still boasts one of the most talented depth charts in the NFL and they have the cap space to land a premier No. 2 pass rusher to pair with a healthy Hutchinson. There’s a chance, an outside one, of this becoming the best defense in the NFL next season.

Related: Insider reveals likely cost of a Myles Garrett trade

4. Minnesota Vikings

• Minnesota Vikings free agents 2025 (defense): S Harrison Smith, CB Byron Murphy Jr, CB Stephon Gilmore, GB Shaquille Griffin, DT Jerry Tillery, DE Jonathan Bullard,
• Minnesota Vikings team needs (defense): CB, S

The Minnesota Vikings had one of the best NFL defenses in 2024 and it stands to reason much of that success can be maintained assuming Brian Flores returns as defensive coordinator. Minnesota can feel great about what Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel did this season. Plus, linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. can be even better if he stays healthy.

Minnesota boasts an excellent pass rush and Flores dials up blitzes and coverages better than almost anyone. The next step is making improvements in the secondary, which was often made to look better than it is thanks to the defensive front. With nearly $60 million in cap space, NFL free agency provides a clear avenue to upgrade the Vikings’ secondary. If that happens, Flores’ unit can be even more consistent next season.

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3. Seattle Seahawks

• Seattle Seahawks free agents (defense): LB Ernest Jones, DT Johnathan Hankins, DE Jarran Reed, S K’Von Wallace, DE Trevis Gipson, CB Tre Brown
• Seattle Seahawks team needs (defense): LB, EDGE

The Seattle Seahawks will be much higher in our NFL defense rankings when we reseed teams after the playoffs. It typically takes a year for players to get a firm grasp of Mike Macdonald’s system, with the big leap coming in the second year. We already saw signs of it in the second half of the 2024 campaign. Seattle ranked seventh in Defensive EPA per Play (-0.024) after Week 7.

In an eight-game stretch from Weeks 9-17, opponents averaged just 202.4 passing yards and 97.8 rushing yards per game with an 85.5 QB rating, 14 total touchdowns (1.75 per game) and a 35 percent third-down conversion rate. If the Seahawks can just shore things up at inside linebacker and find a little more depth at edge rusher, this can be one of the best NFL defenses in 2025.

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2. Houston Texans

• Houston Texans free agents 2025 (defense): DT Folorunso Fatukasi, S Eric Murray, DT Mario Edwards Jr, DE Derek Barnett, LB Neville Hewitt
• Houston Texans team needs (defense): DT, LB, S

The Houston Texans will have one of the best NFL defenses in 2025. It starts at edge rusher with the tandem of Danielle Hunter, a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate, and emerging perennial All-Pro Will Anderson Jr. Two elite edge rushers are disruptive enough for opponents’ passing games and it’s now even harder to pass on Houston because of the cornerback tandem of Derek Stingley Jr. and Kamari Lassiter, which could be the best duo in the NFL next season.

We also love head coach DeMeco Ryans, who keeps orchestrating aggressive defenses even when injuries strike. Fortunately for Houston, it will be in a much better position at safety next season with Jalen Pitre and Jimmie Ward returning from IR. If the Texans can just bolster their interior defensive line, this could be the best NFL defense in 2025.

Related: Top NFL free agents 2025

1. Philadelphia Eagles

• Philadelphia Eagles free agents 2025 (defense): EDGE Josh Sweat, EDGE Brandon Graham ILB Zack Baun, DT Milton Williams, CB Avonte Maddox, ILB Oren Burks
• Philadelphia Eagles team needs 2025: EDGE, CB, DT

The Philadelphia Eagles had the best NFL defense in 2024. Even with multiple starters eligible for NFL free agency, there are a myriad of reasons to believe play-caller Vic Fangio will be the architect of one of the best NFL defenses for years to come.

It starts up front with Jalen Carter, a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate moving forward, and edge rusher Nolan Smith. The former Georgia Bulldogs and 2023 first-round picks were two of the best pass rushers across the league during the entire playoffs. Behind them, Philadelphia has the best cornerback trio in football with Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean and Darius Slay. If all of that isn’t enough, the outstanding safety tandem of Reed Blankenship and C.J. Gardner-Johnson are both under contract next season. If Philadelphia can just re-sign Zack Baun and find a pass rusher to replace Josh Sweat, we’d bet on this being the best defense in the NFL next season.

NFL defense stats 2024

NFL defense rankings FAQ

What is the best defense in the NFL?

The Philadelphia Eagles have the best defense in the NFL right now.

Which NFL defense has forced the most turnovers?

The Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings led the NFL in takeaways with 33 turnovers generates.

What NFL defense is best for fantasy?

The Philadelphia Eagles, Houston Texans, Seattle Seahawks and Detroit Lions are some of the best NFL defenses to target in fantasy.

What is the NFL defense rankings?

Sportsnaut’s NFL defense rankings evaluate and rank all 32 NFL defenses each week, reviewing their performances and projecting how they’ll perform in their upcoming game based on matchups and NFL defense stats.

Who is the number 1 defense in NFL?

The Philadelphia Eagles have the No. 1 defense in the NFL this season.

Who has the best defense in NFL history?

The 1985 Chicago Bears had the best NFL defense ever. Led by three Hall of Famers – Mike Singletary, Richard Dent and Dan Hampton – Chicago allowed just 101 total points on its way to winning Super Bowl XX, including an NFL record two shutouts in the playoffs. In addition, the 1985 Bears’ defense held opponents to a 50.2 passer rating with a 46.5 percent completion rate and 17-37 TD-INT ratio in 19 total games and opponents averaged just 76 rushing yards per game and 3.4 yards per carry across 19 contests in the regular season and playoffs.

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Who has the worst pass defense in the NFL?

The Jacksonville Jaguars have the worst pass defense in the NFL, allowing the most passing yards per game (264.3), the most touchdown passes (27) and the highest QB rating (108.3).

Related: Best undrafted players in NFL history

What’s the top 5 defenses in the NFL?

The top 5 NFL defenses are the Pittsburgh Steelers, Denver Broncos, Philadelphia Eagles, Minnesota Vikings and the Los Angeles Chargers.

Who gives up the most passing yards in the NFL?

The Jacksonville Jaguars allow the most passing yards in the NFL this season.

What teams have the best defense in the NFL?

The Denver Broncos, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings have the best defenses in the NFL this season.

Who has the best pass defense in the NFL?

The Philadelphia Eagles have the best pass defense in the NFL, allowing the fewest passing yards per game (173.4), the fifth-fewest passing touchdowns (15) and the sixth-lowest QB rating (82.8).

Who has the best run defense in the NFL?

The Baltimore Ravens have the best run defense in the NFL, allowing the fewest rushing yards per game and the lowest yards per carry average.

Who has the worst defense in the NFL?

The Jacksonville Jaguars have the worst NFL defense right now.

Who has the worst run defense in the NFL?

The Carolina Panthers have the worst run defense in the NFL this year, allowing the most rushing yards per game (173) and the second-most rushing touchdowns (19).

What team has the most sacks in a season?

The Chicago Bears set the NFL record for most sacks in a season with 72 sacks in 16 games in 1984. Most recently, the 2022 Philadelphia Eagles became just the fourth team in NFL history to record 70 sacks in a single season.

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More must-reads:

• Philadelphia Eagles sign running back who missed entire 2024 season with neck injury to back up Saquon Barkley
• NFL insider says Carolina Panthers panicked in free agency
• Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones shockingly allows four-time Pro Bowl defensive stalwart to walk for nothing

What is the best team in the NFL? The 2024 NFL season has drawn to a close with the Philadelphia Eagles winning Super Bowl LIX Our final NFL power rankings provide offseason evaluations for eliminated teams and rank the remaining playoff teams.

Related: Winners, Losers from Super Bowl LIX

Let’s dive into our NFL power rankings after the Super Bowl

NFL power rankings: Worst NFL teams right now

32. New Orleans Saints

The New Orleans Saints should be one of the worst NFL teams for the next two years. That’s if, after hiring Kellen Moore as head coach, this franchise finally takes its medicine after years of kicking salary-cap issues down the road. Father Time and some awful drafting by general manager Mickey Loomis led to the rapid deterioration of this roster, there are no quick fixes. We are pleading with the Saints, for the sake of Who Dat Nation having a team worth rooting for in the future, to take these next two seasons to just slowly turn over the roster. We’re just skeptical Loomis will do that, instead trying band-aid fixes and eventually leaving even bigger problems for his eventual replacement.

Related: NFL cap space by team 2025

31. Tennessee Titans

If you take the Tennessee Titans roster and draft capital, there’s an argument to be made for them to be a spot or two higher in our NFL power rankings. However, ownership once again decided to have a head coach and general manager who weren’t hired at the same time. It’s also not as if Brian Callahan demonstrated anything in his first season as a head coach to merit keeping his job while Ran Carthon was fired. At the very least, it would be unwise for Tennessee to throw a rookie quarterback into this situation, especially with the added weight of being the No. 1 overall pick. Tennessee should either trade down or draft Travis Hunter, then sign a veteran QB to start in 2025.

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30. Cleveland Browns

Myles Garrett wants out but every signal from the Cleveland Browns suggests the thought of a trade won’t even be considered. So, that should set up a very ugly situation this summer when the team could have its first training camp in several years without Deshaun Watson lingering over the situation. We know many see the Browns as a potential rebound candidate in 2025, citing how well this team played two years ago with Joe Flacco under center. However, this offensive line has aged and the supporting cast isn’t even league-average. Good luck to whichever veteran quarterback (Kirk Cousins?) walks into this situation.

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29. New York Giants

It’s inexplicable how New York Giants owner John Mara could see his team ridiculed nationally, with Saquon Barkley almost carrying the rival Philadelphia Eagles, and keeping the GM who wanted Barkley out of the building. Now Schoen, who probably won’t last past 2026, gets to reach for a rookie quarterback atop the NFL Draft. Meanwhile, the head coach who is 9-25 in the last two seasons, seemingly alienated previous assistant coaches, is facing some calls to give up play-calling. This is not a stable or functional duo at the top.

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This is a shame because there’s a lot of young talent on the Giants roster – Malik Nabers, Tyrone Tracy Jr, Theo Johnson, Andrew Thomas, Tyler Nubin and Bobby Okereke – is an excellent foundation. We want to love the Giants’ future, that’s just difficult to do when there are issues at the four most important positions (owner, GM, HC and QB) in a franchise).

Related: NFL execs offer warning to New York Giants about 2025 NFL Draft

28. Las Vegas Raiders

The Las Vegas Raiders organization wasted the 2024 season on Antonio Pierce, a year that could’ve been used as part of a multi-season retooling. That’s not Pierce’s fault, the blame falls squarely on the shoulders of owner Mark Davis for listening to the Raiders locker room (Maxx Crosby). Now, Las Vegas at least has brought in Pete Carroll to bring NFL-caliber procedures to this team again.

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With that said, the Raiders probably won’t be good enough in time for Crosby to stick around as he’s already hinted at a trade demand twice. Quite frankly, it might be worth accelerating that timeline because neither Shedeur Sanders nor Russell Wilson will fix this offense. One thing Raider Nation can feel good about; general manager John Spytek is the right guy to start building this roster.

27. New England Patriots

The New England Patriots future is bright. Drake Maye looked like a franchise-caliber quarterback in what might’ve been the worst ecosystem for success we’ve seen for a rookie in years. Now, the Patriots have an NFL-caliber coaching staff with more than $100 million in cap space. That means New England can devote significant resources to overhauling the offensive line, finding a No. 1 receiver opponents fear and using some of its premium draft picks to add depth at wideout.

Related: 2025 NFL Draft order, picks by team

We would, however, encourage the Patriots to use that first-round pick on a defensive standout to give Mike Vrabel a unit with Christian Gonzalez, Keion White, Jabrill Peppers and one of Travis Hunter or Abdul Carter. Do that, this team will take off quickly.

26. New York Jets

The New York Jets didn’t deserve Aaron Glenn, but they got him. A strong comparison made to the hire is what DeMeco Ryans did for the Houston Texans. Glenn’s defensive mind speaks for itself and will immediately help turn the Jets’ defense around in 2025. Most importantly, the reason to be fairly confident he can succeed as a head coach, he might be one of the best leaders in the coaching world. That time spent with Dan Campbell and the Detroit Lions can also help rebuild the Jets’ culture.

Related: Grading NFL coaching hires 2025

Unfortunately, Woody Johnson is still around and Glenn is also stuck between a rock and a hard place at quarterback. Aaron Rodgers proved late in 2024 that he can still be an above-average starter, but that ability is weighed down by everything else he brings. If New York moves on from him, which might be the best thing for the team culture, it’s QB purgatory for New York in 2025.

25. Carolina Panthers

Everything changed for the Carolina Panthers in November 2024. Through his first six games, split in-between a benching, Bryce Young had a 60.16% completion rate, 3-6 TD-INT lien and 63.1 QB rating. He seemed destined to be one of the all-time draft busts, putting Carolina in a position of having a bottom-three roster with no stability at quarterback. The next 8 games turned everything around.

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In his final eight starts, Young recorded a 12-3 TD-INT ratio with 5 rushing touchdowns and had a 91.7 QB rating. More than just the numbers, he showed poise in the pocket, accuracy under pressure and he handled the blitz really well. It all just suddenly clicked. It’s too small of a sample size to say he can be a franchise-caliber player, but the turnaround means the Panthers offseason can be focused on improving the supporting cast. It also spoke volumes about head coach Dave Canales. There’s hope for Carolina, finally.

24. Indianapolis Colts

Through his first two NFL seasons, Anthony Richardson – 50.6% completion rate, 11-13 TD-INT, 67.8 QB rating – has been one of the worst quarterbacks in modern history. It’s also not as if his supporting cast is to blame. Shane Steichen is a quality play-caller, 2023 demonstrated that, and the offensive weaponry of Jonathan Taylor, Michael Pittman Jr. and Josh Downs is better than several other young quarterbacks have right now.

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Indianapolis needs a viable starting-caliber quarterback behind Richardson in 2025, both due to his struggles and also his durability issues. A breakout year is certainly possible in his third year, especially with a healthy offseason, but the Colts’ coaching staff and front office needs an insurance plan with jobs at stake in 2025. Speaking of jobs, it’s unbelievable a GM with one playoff win since 2019 is still employed.

Related: Early NFL free agency predictions 2025

23. Carolina Panthers

The process of cleaning house is the epitome of everything that’s wrong with the Jacksonville Jaguars organization, or to be more precise, ownership. The Khan family didn’t want to go through the hassle of a GM search and it nearly cost them dearly. Ultimately, the end result is all that matters.

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For all the knocks on how Liam Coen handled this process and his odd tendency of hopping from job to job, his work as an offensive architect speaks for itself. Coen helped transform the Buccaneers’ ground game, making the offense as a whole even better than it was with Dave Canales. Coen can get more out of Trevor Lawrence and this new-look offense will also help Brian Thomas Jr, Evan Engram and Travis Etienne/Tank Bigsby. Plus, Jacksonville is in a winnable division and a few additions to the defense could give the Jaguars a shot at the AFC South crown in 2025.

22. Arizona Cardinals

It’s going to be a make-or-break year for Kyler Murray. The Arizona Cardinals’ offensive line is far from perfect, but it’s good enough to sustain a functional passing game. Arizona also provided Murray with an outstanding running back in James Conner, an All-Pro-caliber tight end in Trey McBride and we still believe Marvin Harrison Jr. can become a No. 1 receiver.

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Murray is the question mark. From Weeks 9-17, he only had an 85.3 QB rating with a 6-8 TD-INT ratio and he averaged just 25.8 rushing yards per game. If Murray can even become a Pro Bowl-caliber quarterback again, the Cardinals are an NFC West threat. Otherwise, a very difficult conversation will need to be had in Arizona’s front office a year from now.

21. Miami Dolphins

Even if Tua Tagovailoa is healthy in 2025, it’s difficult to trust the Miami Dolphins as a bonafide contender with upside. Entering 2025, Miami have a 1-11 record in their last 12 games against teams with a winning record. Whether it’s Tagovailoa, the offensive line, or Mike McDaniel’s system, Miami consistently falls well short against quality competition. On the bright side, Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver is sticking around after he did great work on that side of the ball despite season-ending injuries at edge rusher.

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20. Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears hire the proverbial golden boy of coaching candidates this winter, landing former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. Making the hire even better, Johnson landed Dennis Allen as the Bears defensive coordinator. Coaching continuity is a critical component of sustained success (see the Kansas City Chiefs) and the Bears might have that if Johnson proves to be a good head coach. Of course, there’s still plenty of work to be done.

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The Bears offensive line still needs to be overhauled, largely the interior, and Allen is going to need more pass rushers with Montez Sweat (5.5 sacks in 16 games) coming off a quiet season. What matters is that Chicago might finally have the coaching staff and franchise QB in place for long-term success.

19. Dallas Cowboys

At the very least, the Dallas Cowboys coaching staff outside of first-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer offers some reason for optimism. It’s also important to remember that the Cowboys roster still boasts plenty of elite talent at the top, with an All-Pro quarterback and receiver tandem along with arguably the best pass rusher in the NFL. At a minimum, if everyone stays healthy, a winning record is possible. With that said, there’s also very little ceiling with this team. Holes on the offensive line and in the middle of the defense are major concerns. Given Jerry Jones’ preference for spending as little money as possible to improve the team, expectations shouldn’t be high.

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NFL power rankings: Potential playoff contenders

18. Atlanta Falcons

The 2025 NFL season is certainly much sooner than anyone expected Michael Penix Jr to become the Atlanta Falcons starting quarterback, but that’s the situation. Fortunately, Penix Jr. looked good in a three-game test run as the starter and he’s got a great supporting cast to work with offensively. If Atlanta wants to win the NFC South, though, significant resources must be invested into the defense this offseason. Otherwise, the absolute best-case scenario is a one-and-done playoff team that everyone knows will be knocked out in the Wild Card Round regardless of the matchup.

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17. Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers are sticking by Mike Tomlin, which makes sense if the organization’s goal is to be a good but not great team every year. Tomlin isn’t the Steelers’ biggest problem by any means, but he reflects a franchise that has been unwilling to make big moves and is just fine with complacency. Whether it’s Russell Willson or Justin Fields operating as the Steelers starting quarterback in 2025, the ceiling is a league-average offense that will be depending on a very good but not elite defense to keep games close. At some point, a reset is needed, but the Steelers aren’t willing to entertain that thought right now and it’s to their long-term detriment.

Related: Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver targets this offseason

16. Cincinnati Bengals

As long as Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase and Chase Brown are healthy, the Cincinnati Bengals offense should be excellent in 2025. The question becomes whether they pay Tee Higgins $30-plus million per season or use that money to make desperately needed investments on defense. Re-signing Higgins feels likelier than ever, putting pressure on the Bengals front office to start hitting more consistently on top draft picks. At the very least, the new defensive system should yield slight improvements and that is enough for Burrow to put the Bengals in the playoff hunt with a winning record.

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15. San Francisco 49ers

Fans are rightfully excited about the reunion with defensive coordinator Robert Saleh and the return of a healthy San Francisco 49ers roster this summer. However, the offensive line has multiple holes that must be addressed and the NFC West is getting stronger. San Francisco shouldn’t be as snake-bitten injury-wise next season, but the talent and depth on this roster isn’t close to what this team had during its Super Bowl window. For now, the 49ers don’t look like a top-five NFC team.

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14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

It’s another year with a new offensive coordinator for Baker Mayfield. The source of hope is that first-year play-caller Josh Gizzard was the architect of the best third-down offense in the NFL last season. However, hitting on three consecutive OC hires is pretty rare. Thankfully, Tampa Bay already has the QB, offensive line and run game in place to at least sustain an above-average offense in 2025. If the Buccaneers’ defense improves – with additions at edge rusher and cornerback – Tampa Bay is the team to beat in the NFC South next season.

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13. Denver Broncos

The Denver Broncos and Sean Payton blew past everyone’s expectations in 2025. What makes this situation even better for long-term success is the Broncos offensive line and defense, giving Nix the essential elements for a young QB to thrive. Denver also ate a majority of the Russell Wilson cap hit last year, creating plenty of financial flexibility to improve the run game and receiving corps this offseason. While second-year regression is certainly on the table for Denver, we think a more realistic outcome is a well-coached team that can potentially reach the Divisional Round as long as the right offseason moves are made.

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12. Los Angeles Chargers

This was just the beginning for the Los Angeles Chargers. Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz used the first season as an evaluation year, determining which players on the Chargers roster are building blocks and who needed to be replaced. This offseason is truly the start of the team-building process, with Harbaugh and Hortiz likely to emphasize the receiving corps and defense for improvement. Los Angeles already has the franchise QB, an offensive line it can feel great about and a top-10 coaching staff. Now, it’s time to put the supporting cast together for sustained success.

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11. Los Angeles Rams

As beloved as Cooper Kupp is in that Los Angeles Rams locker room, moving on from the injury-prone veteran wideout just makes sense. Los Angeles can use the cap savings to upgrade the defense, specifically a secondary that was carried by a standout defensive line this past season. The Rams have key difference-makers in place on both sides of the ball with system continuity, ensuring that there shouldn’t be a regression from either unit next season. As long as upgrades are made in the secondary and potentially at left tackle, there’s no reason to think that Los Angeles can’t be a threat to make a playoff run next season. However, now might also be a smart time to find Matt Stafford’s successor.

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NFL power rankings: Best NFL teams in 2025

10. Green Bay Packers

The Green Bay Packers have the foundational pieces to be a perennial playoff contender. Quality coaching, a strong offensive line, a dominant run game and a top-12 defense. With the right moves in NFL free agency and the 2025 NFL Draft – finding a No. 1 receiver and No. 1 edge rusher – this can be one of the best teams in 2025. However, quarterback Jordan Love really showed no significant signs of improvement in his second full year as the starter and Green Bay could be passive in the offseason once again. This is a very good team, but Love puts a ceiling on the Packers right now.

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9. Seattle Seahawks

In his first year as head coach, Mike Macdonald led a defensive turnaround even faster than expected. A big part of that was Seattle finding a short-term solution (Ernest Jones) at off-ball linebacker and they’ll likely find the long-term fix this offseason. We also like the playmakers on the Seahawks offense – Kenneth Walker III, DK Metcalf and Jaxon Smith-Njigba – but this offensive line doesn’t allow Geno Smith to take advantage of this strong supporting cast.

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For the Seahawks to take a step forward in 2025, becoming the clear-cut top team in the NFC West, the front office must adequately address the interior offensive line through the NFL Draft and free agency. Unfortunately, fans have been pleading for that to happen for years without much luck, so expectations will be tempered.

8. Minnesota Vikings

The final two games from Sam Darnold demonstrated two things for the Minnesota Vikings. First, this franchise should feel just fine moving forward with J.J. McCarthy. The organization is still as infatuated with his potential and fit in Kevin O’Connell’s system as they were before his injury. Second, Minnesota needs to upgrade its rushing attack which was still far too inconsistent down the stretch last season. The Vikings have a top-10 defense with an elite offensive supporting cast and a phenomenal coaching staff. All that’s left is improvements at quarterback and in the run game.

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7. Houston Texans

C.J. Stroud demonstrated once again during the NFL playoffs that he’s a high-end starter who can be the face of this Houston Texans franchise. DeMeco Ryans also made the first big move of the offseason, replacing offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik with play-caller Nick Caley, which bodes well given the reports of issues between Stroud and Slowik.

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We have a ton of confidence that Houston will field one of the NFL’s best defenses in 2025, especially with a healthy Jalen Pitre and Jimmie Ward. However, to become a Super Bowl contender, the Texans’ problems on the offensive line must be fixed and this franchise needs to find a No. 2 receiver who complements Nico Collins and diversifies this passing game for Stroud.

6. Washington Commanders

Jayden Daniels played like an NFL MVP who is capable of carrying his team on a deep playoff run. What’s truly remarkable about what he accomplished isn’t just the fact he was a rookie, it’s that he did it with arguably a below-average Washington Commanders roster. If he can accomplish all of this with what might be the worst supporting cast he’ll have for years to come, it’s not hard to think about what he can do next season.

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Washington has the cap space to not just improve its offensive line and find a No. 2 receiver, but it can also make significant additions defensively. What provides even more confidence in this franchise, general manager Adam Peters nailed his free-agency signings a year ago and head coach Dan Quinn made it all work. We could be just a year away from the Commanders becoming the NFC’s best team.

5. Detroit Lions

The 2023 Philadelphia Eagles (NFC Champions to 11-6) and 1995 San Francisco 49ers (Super Bowl champions to Divisional Round exit) are examples of what can happen to a team that loses both coordinators. That has to be a major concern for the Detroit Lions. What lessens that worry is that this team was snake-bitten by injuries in 2024 and still finished 15-2. We do believe the departures of Aaron Glenn and Ben Johnson will narrow the gap between the Lions and the rest of the NFC North. However, Dan Campbell still has more than enough talent and buy-in from the locker room for the Lions to remain Super Bowl contenders next season.

4. Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens are standing in their own way of being the best team in the NFL. Time and time again in the playoffs, turnovers and drops have proved costly. Still, Lamar Jackson is coming off one of the best seasons in NFL history and this Ravens defense really turned things around down the stretch. Baltimore will likely dominate in the regular season in 2025, as it always does, but it’s reasonable at this point to be skeptical of this team making a Super Bowl run.

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3. Buffalo Bills

After a retool of the Buffalo Bills roster, everyone would’ve understood if this team had a down year in 2024. Instead, Josh Allen rightfully won NFL MVP and paired with James Cook to nearly carry this team to the AFC Championship Game. This offseason, the Bills front office can now start improving the surrounding talent around Allen. However, until Buffalo proves it can exercise its demons in January, it doesn’t belong any higher in our NFL power rankings.

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2. Kansas City Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs were embarrassed on Sunday. While this is still one of the best dynasties ever, Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs looked like they didn’t belong on the same field as the Philadelphia Eagles. Now is where things get interesting. Travis Kelce may retire and several of the top Chiefs free agents are guaranteed to leave in NFL free agency. Kansas City wanted to go all-in for a three-peat and then figure things out from there. Instead, the Chiefs imploded on the biggest stage and now the Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens have a chance to close the gap in the AFC this offseason.

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1. Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles had the best roster in the NFL this season and they are the rightful Super Bowl champions. Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio put on a clinic, Philadelphia dominated in the trenches on both sides of the ball and all of that was reflected in a blowout Super Bowl victory. The best part, a majority of the Eagles roster returns in 2025 and you can bet general manager Howie Roseman will be aggressive going for the repeat. Plus, quarterback Jalen Hurts demonstrated once again that he plays at his best in the biggest playoff games.

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NFL power rankings FAQs

Who is the best NFL team in NFL?

The Philadelphia Eagles are the best team in the NFL right now, sitting at No. 1 in the NFL power rankings.

Who is the worst team in the NFL?

The New Orleans Saints are the worst team in the NFL, coming in last in our 2025 NFL power rankings.

What are the top 3 worst NFL teams?

The three worst NFL teams in 2025 are the New Orleans Saints, Tennessee Titans and Cleveland Browns.

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• NFL insider says Carolina Panthers panicked in free agency
• Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones shockingly allows four-time Pro Bowl defensive stalwart to walk for nothing

What is the greatest dynasty in NFL history?

When Tom Brady announced he was leaving the New England Patriots after two decades, it marked the end of one of the most dominant NFL dynasties. Few teams in NFL history come close to the Patriots’ incredible dynasty, but quite a few teams stand out for their own impressive achievements.

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From iconic teams like the Green Bay Packers and Cleveland Browns dominating during the pre-Super Bowl era to recent dynasties within the past two decades. Here are the 20 most dominant NFL dynasties ever.

Best NFL dynasties ever

20. Indianapolis Colts (1999-2010)

After throwing 28 interceptions as a rookie in 1998, some started to wonder if the Colts made a mistake taking Peyton Manning. A year later, the Colts went 13-3 and the dynasty started rolling. Bringing in Tony Dungy provided this team with the leadership it needed. The Colts ripped off seven consecutive playoff appearances under Dungy, followed by two more with Jim Caldwell. Manning’s Colts went 138-54 in the regular season during their 12-year run, appearing in two Super Bowls and won one ring. If not for Patriots, Manning likely would have a few more rings on his fingers.

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19. St. Louis Rams (1999-2003)

The Greatest Show on Turf didn’t last for long, but it was a thing of beauty when it was around. The offense boasted four Hall of Famers (Marshall Faulk, Orlando Pace, Kurt Warner and Isaac Bruce) and Torrey Holt might just miss out on his spot in Canton. The offense scored 500-plus points in three consecutive seasons — numbers that came in a league that wasn’t as offense-friendly as it is now. The Rams hoisted the Lombardi Trophy in 1999, but their last-second loss to the Patriots in Super Bowl XXXVI still stings.

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18. Minnesota Vikings (1969-1977)

It might seem ridiculous to call a team without a Super Bowl a dynasty and it’s why the Vikings are towards the bottom of this list. But while they didn’t come out of this incredible stretch with a ring, head coach Bud Grant coached one of the sport’s most dominant teams. Minnesota went 96-29-1 across nine seasons. Of course, plenty of credit must go to the Purple People Eaters, a group that utterly destroyed opposing offensive lines. Four trips to the Super Bowl (1970, ’74, ’75 and ’77) is impressive, even if the Vikings couldn’t put a ring on it.

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17. Buffalo Bills (1988-1993) – Greatest NFL dynasty to never win a Super Bowl

There will always be a massive elephant in the room for this franchise during this run. The Bills went to the Super Bowl in four consecutive seasons and didn’t come out victorious once. The one-point loss to the Giants, the unfortunate result of Scott Norwood’s missed game-winning kick, stung this franchise for decades. A 70-36 record with four trips to the Super Bowl is still remarkable and Jim Kelly earned his place as a legend in Buffalo.

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16. New York Giants (2005-2011)

The Patriots’ reign has prevented multiple other dynasties from achieving even greater success. Yet the Giants have always come through as the foil to even more rings for Brady and Bill Belichick. Eli Manning and Co. couldn’t make it past the wild-card round in 2005 and 2006. But Manning and David Tyree delivered the late-game heroics to end the Patriots’ pursuit of a perfect season in 2007, bringing a title back to New York. After missing the playoffs in two of the next three seasons, Manning took Brady down again in Super Bowl XLVI with some clutch throws in the closing minutes. While many love to focus on Manning’s career 117-117 record, he twice did what few others ever could.

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15. Chicago Bears (1932-1946)

The Bears boast two eras with a compelling case for this list, but the nod must go to the team that racked up championships with regularity. Hall of Fame coach George Halas proved why he is one of the greatest to ever do it, winning five titles in this span with Chicago. Of course, the Bears started and ended their incredible run with an NFL Championship. A team loaded with legends like Bronko Nagurski, Sid Luckman and George McAfee, the Bears earned their spot in NFL history.

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14. Denver Broncos (1983-1998)

The John Elway era proves to be one of the most fascinating when comparing it to other dynasties. Under the Hall of Famer, the Broncos went 90-52-1 in their first nine seasons, losing three Super Bowls along the way. After a rough loss in the ’91 AFC Championship Game to the Bills, Denver only made the playoffs once in the next four seasons. On the verge of ending his career 0-3 in the big game, Mike Shanahan helped save Elway’s legacy with consecutive Super Bowl titles before the quarterback walked off into the sunset.

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13. Miami Dolphins (1970-1995)

Don Shula’s reign in Miami lasted 26 seasons and few come close to matching the success he had in NFL history. The iconic coach posted a 257-133-2 record in more than two decades with the Dolphins. Along the way, they won two Super Bowl titles and pulled off the only perfect season in NFL history. Unfortunately, the Dolphins could only reach one Super Bowl with Shula and Dan Marino, slightly diminishing an otherwise historic stretch of success. Between the perfect ’72 season and Shula’s record of success, the Dolphins’ dynasty easily stands out among the NFL greats.

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12. Pittsburgh Steelers (2004-2017)

It seems impossible that the Steelers’ recent stretch of greatness isn’t even considered the best dynasty in team history. Ben Roethlisberger stepped on the field as a rookie and gave this team the quarterback it needed to become an instant contender. While the Steelers fell short after a 15-1 season in 2004, they roared back the following year to win the Super Bowl. Pittsburgh’s iconic defense shut down opposing teams while Roethlisberger ripped secondaries apart with his arm.

During this 14-year, the Steelers recorded a 150-74 record with two Super Bowl titles and one Super Bowl ring that slipped out of their fingers. Big Ben might have another year left in him, but he likely finishes his career with two championships before heading into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

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11. Dallas Cowboys (1970-1979)

Things didn’t start well for coach Tom Landry and the Cowboys. After posting a 25-53-4 record across his first six seasons, things didn’t look promising heading into 1966. But Landry found his way in the NFL, making the playoffs each of the next four seasons. After losing the Super Bowl in 1970, the iconic duo of Landry and Roger Staubach marched toward a dynasty. From 1970-1979, the Cowboys had a 105-39 record in the regular season, four Super Bowl appearances and won two rings. It proved to be quite the decade for iconic franchises. Much like the Steelers (2004-2017), though, it’s not quite enough to be the best era in team history.

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10 best NFL dynasties ever: Dallas Cowboys, Green Bay Packers among all-time greats

10. Washington Redskins (1982-1992)

It’s been a long time since the Redskins were viewed as a contender, but this team used to be the class of the NFL. Joe Gibbs became the most beloved person in the nation’s capital, helping build a team that went from a .500 record in his first season to a Super Bowl champion. Grand success became the standard under Gibbs. The Redskins got rolled over in Super Bowl XVIII, but the team rebounded with two more Super Bowl celebrations before Gibbs retired following the ’92 season. Three Super Bowl rings in a 12-year span. Things are a lot different now for an organization that hasn’t won a playoff game since 2005.

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9. Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders (1974-1985)

It’s not often that a dynasty features two coaches in two different cities, but the Raiders always seem to find a way to make history. Of course, the memorable years of John Madden and Kenny Stabler made Oakland the place to be in the early 1970s. The duo posted a 65-20-1 record from 1973-1978 and won a Super Bowl along the way. Following Madden’s retirement in 1979, Tom Flores took over and the Raiders kept rolling. Even after leaving Oakland for Los Angeles in 1982, Flores and Hall of Fame running back Marcus Allen kept winning. Two coaches, two cities and plenty of greats on the field and the Raiders came out of the era with three Super Bowl rings.

8. Cleveland Browns (1946-1965)

Yes, the Browns used to be good. In fact, the Browns were the Patriots of the NFL for nearly two decades. Much of the credit goes to Paul Brown, the namesake for the team and the man who basically built this team from the ground up. Brown had his quarterback in Otto Graham and the Hall of Fame pairing achieved insane success. Cleveland dominated the All-America Football Conference until it merged with the NFL. Brown’s team proved it wasn’t a fluke, winning the NFL Championship in 1950 and then two more in 1954 and 1955. After the team fired Brown in 1963, Blanton Collier took over and won another title in 1964.

7. Green Bay Packers (1929-1944)

Much like Brown, Curly Lambeau is responsible for one of the most storied franchises in sports getting started on its path to greatness. After serving as a player-coach from 1919-29, Lambeau focused on coaching in 1929 and the Packers immediately won a championship. They’d pull off a three-peat and then go on to win three more titles from 1936-1944, only losing once in the NFL Championship Game along the way. A 137-46-8 record with six titles across 16 years, a dynasty in every way.

6. Dallas Cowboys (1991-1996)

Taking over for Tom Landry is an impossible task and things started slow for Jimmy Johnson. But after building a champion at Miami, Johnson brought that same energy and leadership to Dallas. Before long, the Cowboys were a powerhouse once more. Johnson, Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith and Michael Irvin, a collection of legends like few others in NFL history. It won back-to-back Super Bowls before Jerry Jones‘ ego caused Johnson to leave town. Barry Switzer inherited an incredible team and the Cowboys won their third Super Bowl in a four-year span. We can’t help but wonder how many more rings the Cowboys would have had if Johnson stayed.

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5 best NFL dynasties ever

5. Green Bay Packers (1960-1967)

Countless organizations would love if their best stretch in team history resembled Green Bay’s from 1929-1944. Incredibly, that’s not the best in this franchise’s remarkable history. Vince Lombardi, one of the best coaches in the history of sports, was so dominant during this stretch that the Super Bowl trophy now carries his name. Lombardi’s Packers won made it to the NFL Championship in his second season and lost. They went on to win it in each of the next two seasons. He’d add another championship to his resume in 1965, before taking home the first two Super Bowls in NFL history. Five titles in eight years and a roster with 10 Hall of Famers on it. It’s the definition of a dynasty and an era that will never be forgotten.

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4. San Francisco 49ers (1981-1994)

The architect of the West Coast offense, Bill Walsh’s impact on the NFL goes beyond how he built the 49ers’ dynasty. For as impactful as Walsh’s offensive philosophy remains today, his list of accomplishments is equally incredible. He drafted Joe Montana, Ronnie Lott, Charles Haley and Jerry Rice, then identified Steve Young’s talent and traded for him. A brilliant mind on the field and in the front office, Walsh helped the 49ers dominate the 1980s. San Francisco won three Super Bowls under Walsh before he retired following the 1988 title. George Seifert took over, winning a Super Bowl with Young in 1989 and 1994. During this 14-year stretch, the 49ers won five Super Bowls, lost it to the NFC Championship Game four times and posted a 159-56-1 record.

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3. Kansas City Chiefs (2018-Present)

With Patrick Mahomes, Andy Reid, Travis Kelce and Steve Spagnuolo, the Kansas City Chiefs have become one of the best NFL dynasties ever. For starters, the Chiefs are one of just nine teams in NFL history to repeat as Super Bowl champions. That in itself, makes Kansas City a dynasty. On top of that, the Chiefs became the first-ever team to reach the Super Bowl after becoming back-to-back champs, something the ’70s Pittsburgh Steelers and the 2000-2010s New England Patriots never did.

Kansas City has now reached seven consecutive AFC Championship Games, joining the Patriots as only the second team in NFL history to play in the conference title game in six consecutive seasons or more. Mahomes and Reid have won three Super Bowls together from 2019-2023, a stretch of dominance only rivaled by the Patriots.

If the Chiefs win Super Bowl LIX over the Philadelphia Eagles, this will go down as the second-best dynasty in NFL history. That would mean four Super Bowl rings in a six-year span, with the years the team fell short from 2018-2024 coming in either the AFC Championship Game or the Super Bowl. Given Mahomes’ age and Reid’s willingness to keep coaching, the Chiefs could challenge the Patriots for the best dynasty in NFL history.

2. Pittsburgh Steelers (1972-1979)

The Steelers’ history of winning is incredible and this organization’s story can’t be told without Chuck Noll, Terry Bradshaw, Lynn Swann and the Steel Curtain. Pittsburgh rode its cast of Hall of Famers, with an equally legendary coach, to a level of success that was unprecedented for a majority of the Super Bowl era. The Steelers won four Super Bowls across nine seasons, with a defense that crushed the hopes of opposing teams and an offense that always came through in the clutch. If not for the Patriots, there would be an incredible argument for the 70s Steelers to be the best dynasty ever.

1. New England Patriots (2001-2019) – Greatest NFL dynasty ever

A sixth-round pick and a head coach with a 35-44 record with the Cleveland Browns. The most unlikely pairing became the greatest dynasty. It all started with Drew Bledsoe going down in Week 2 of the 2001 season and the rest is simply history. When Tom Brady wasn’t elite, Belichick’s defense was historically dominant and Adam Vinatieri delivered in the clutch to help the Patriots win three Super Bowls.

Brady then reached a level we’ve never seen before. The Patriots made 17 playoff appearances in 19 seasons, went to nine Super Bowls and have six rings in 20 seasons. Easily No. 1 among NFL dynasties. As for the Brady vs. Belichick debate, just look at Super LV.

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