When the offseason buzz finally settles, a handful of pundits release their most daring NFL 2025 predictions. Forget the spreadsheets; these forecasts lean on rivalry heat, recent stats and plain old instinct. Two headlines dominate the chatter: the New York Giants' early quarterback switch to Jaxson Dart, and the Denver Broncos taking the AFC West crown.
Giants’ QB shuffle: Dart takes the helm
New York’s front office has been stuck in a quarterback carousel for years. This time, analysts say the team won’t wait for a mid‑season crisis. After a lukewarm opening weekend, coach Brian Daboll is expected to hand the ball to rookie Jaxson Dart by Week 3. The idea is to give the 22‑year‑old live‑game reps before the division grind intensifies.
Why Dart? He showed poise in college, can extend plays with his feet, and fits the Giants’ shift toward a more mobile offense. Supporters argue that an early start could accelerate his learning curve, while critics fear a rookie could stall a team that’s already lagging behind the Cowboys and Eagles.
- Week 1‑2: Daniels stays, but limited snaps.
- Week 3‑5: Dart starts, faces the Panthers and Giants’ first division test.
- Mid‑season: If Dart clicks, he stays; if not, Daniels regains the role.
Broncos eye the West: A return to relevance
Denver’s resurgence story reads like a comeback novel. After a string of missed playoffs, the Broncos are projected to dominate the AFC West, edging out the Chargers, Raiders and a still‑rebuilding Chiefs. The prediction hinges on a healthier Russell Wilson, a revamped offensive line, and a defense that finally clicks in pass rush.
Key to the Broncos’ surge is their new defensive coordinator, who introduced aggressive blitz packages that already forced three sacks per game in the preseason. Offensively, a balanced attack—run‑heavy early, play‑action later—should keep opponents guessing.
- Division title clinched by Week 15.
- Potential wild‑card spot if the Chiefs stumble.
- Playoff seeding likely 3rd or 4th in the AFC.
Other notable forecasts round out the season’s storyline: the Patriots are expected to limp into the wild‑card, the Eagles may finally break the 12‑game regular‑season streak, and a surprise upset is slated for the Dolphins in Week 9. While numbers and models are absent, the mix of revenge games, recent form and pure gut feel makes these predictions a conversation starter for fans everywhere.
