Season Recap for Every NFL Team

Whether it be the ridiculous rise of the New England Patriots back to prominence or the horrific collapse that was the 2025 Indianapolis Colts, this season was, objectively, the best of the 2020s era so far. With this in mind, now is a good time to look back on the season and reflect on the good, the bad, and the ugly that were these teams’ seasons. The list is ordered based on divisions and their respective teams’ place finishes.

NFC WEST

Seattle Seahawks

The Seattle Seahawks had a breakout 2025 season, finishing 14–3, winning the NFC West, and advancing all the way to Super Bowl LX against the New England Patriots. Led by new quarterback Sam Darnold and head coach Mike Macdonald, they combined a top‑tier defense with explosive playmakers to become one of the NFL’s biggest success stories. They won the SB, as Darnold has proven he can play when the lights are shining the brightest. It also helps when your top receiver, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, is the OPOY, putting up over 1,700 yards during the regular season and being close to 2,000 yards through the whole campaign.

Los Angeles Rams

The Rams put together one of their strongest campaigns in years, finishing 12–5 and securing a playoff berth. Matthew Stafford led the NFL in passing yards, proving he still had plenty left in the tank, while third‑year receiver Puka Nacua blossomed into a true star, earning All‑Pro recognition. Their offense was explosive, consistently putting up points against tough defenses. Stafford is also the likely MVP, showing that this season is far from a failure, especially since they made it all the way to the NFC Championship.

San Francisco 49ers

The 49ers finished the season at 12–5, once again proving themselves as one of the NFC’s most consistent contenders. Brock Purdy continued to run the offense efficiently, leaning heavily on Christian McCaffrey, who was dominant and earned All‑Pro honors. The team’s offensive line gave Purdy time to distribute the ball, and their balanced attack kept them near the top of the league in scoring. That is to say, their season was derailed by injuries, and even though they managed to win a playoff game, one can only wonder what their season could’ve been if stars like Nick Bosa and Fred Warner stayed healthy.

Arizona Cardinals

The Cardinals endured a rough year, finishing 3–14 and sitting at the bottom of the NFC West. Despite flashes of brilliance from quarterback Jacoby Brissett, the team struggled to find consistency on either side of the ball. Murray showed mobility and playmaking ability, but the offense lacked reliable weapons beyond tight end Trey McBride, and the offensive line often left him under pressure. Not to mention they were 2-0 at one point in the season.

NFC SOUTH

Carolina Panthers

The Panthers surprised many by finishing 8–9, a significant improvement from their struggles the year before, even allowing them to win a weak NFC South. Quarterback Bryce Young showed real growth in his third season, looking more comfortable in the pocket and making smarter decisions. His chemistry with wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan gave the offense some spark, while the running game provided balance. Not to mention they almost managed to take down a highly favored Rams team when playoff time came around, and Young had one of the best games of his career when the pressure was on.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Buccaneers finished the year at 8–9, a season defined by grit and flashes of promise, but ultimately marked by inconsistency. Quarterback Baker Mayfield continued to prove himself as a capable starter, showing toughness and leadership while keeping the offense competitive. Wide receiver Mike Evans remained a reliable deep threat, and the offensive line held up better than expected, allowing Tampa Bay to stay in the playoff hunt until late in the season.

Atlanta Falcons

The Falcons wrapped up the year at 8–9, a season that showed flashes of potential but ultimately highlighted their ongoing quarterback dilemma. Despite having offensive weapons like Bijan Robinson and Drake London, the team struggled to find consistent production under center. Robinson was a bright spot, showcasing his versatility as both a runner and receiver, and London continued to develop into a reliable target. The hiring of Kevin Stefanski this offseason could turn out to be the spark to bring this team back to prominence.

New Orleans Saints

The Saints endured a disappointing year, finishing 6–11 and missing the playoffs. However, expectations weren’t that high going into the season, and despite this, quarterback Tyler Shough showed promise. Alvin Kamara remained productive and provided sparks at times, but he was leaving them unable to keep pace with stronger opponents. Chris Olave also showed promise, with him eclipsing 1,000 yards despite all the inconsistency. Next season, they could make a solid playoff push if they improve in free agency.

NFC EAST

Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles finished the season at 11–6, securing a playoff berth but falling short of their Super Bowl aspirations. Quarterback Jalen Hurts remained the centerpiece of the offense, showcasing his dual‑threat ability with both passing and rushing production. Wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith continued to be one of the league’s most dangerous duos, giving Philadelphia explosive playmaking on the outside. On the more negative side, Saquon Barkley wasn’t as dominant this year, the defense showed signs of weakness at key positions, the offensive line struggled to stay healthy, and overall, the offense never managed to click. A new OC next season could turn out to be all this team needs to rise back to the big game.

Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys endured a frustrating season, finishing 7–9–1 and missing the playoffs. Their defense was one of the worst, dragging down an offense that may have been Super Bowl caliber otherwise. They were constantly in shootouts, and that is not a consistent way to win football games. On the bright side, George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb were both fantastic wide receivers this season, Javonte Williams had a decent career renaissance, and Dak Prescott showed he can still play at a high level when healthy. A new DC might make this team Super Bowl contenders if they’re able to re-sign Pickens this offseason.

Washington Commanders

The Commanders endured a tough season, finishing 5–12 and returning near the bottom of the NFC East. Their offense struggled to find rhythm, in part due to their many key injuries to players like Jayden Daniels, Terry McLaurin, and Austin Ekeler. If by season’s end you’re starting Josh Johnson at quarterback, that’s a strong sign things just weren’t going your way that season. Despite flashes from players like Deebo Samuel and Jacory “Bill” Crosky-Merritt, the unit lacked consistency and often stalled in crucial moments. This was a team that was 3-2 to start the season, then went on to lose 8 straight games before ending off a little stronger. Their only hope as of now for the future is to have an injury-free 2026.

New York Giants

The Giants had a hopeful season, finishing 4-13, and showed flashes of improvement from last year despite only winning one more game. Their rookies, Cam Skattebo and Jaxson Dart, showed promise for the future of the team, even though Skattebo was shut down by week 8. With the hiring of John Harbaugh this upcoming season, we could see Malik Nabers and these other two rookies break out in a big way. However, it’s also important to point out the negatives for this team. Their defense, despite being led by Brian Burns, who put up 16.5 sacks, was terrible, and they struggled with consistent execution for 4 quarters, blowing multiple double-digit leads, including a game against the Broncos where they led 19-0. 

NFC NORTH

Chicago Bears

The Bears delivered one of their most exciting seasons in recent memory, finishing 11–6 and returning to the playoffs. Quarterback Caleb Williams immediately energized the franchise, showing poise, creativity, and leadership beyond his years. His chemistry with DJ Moore gave Chicago a legitimate passing attack, something the team had lacked for years. Ben Johnson was the best hire of the offseason, aside from maybe Mike Vrabel, but for a team that’s only known losing for so long, this one just feels more satisfying.

Green Bay Packers

The Packers finished the season at 9–7–1, showing growth under quarterback Jordan Love but still struggling with consistency. Love took another step forward, proving he could lead the offense and developing strong chemistry with young receivers like Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs. The offense was balanced, with Josh Jacobs continuing to provide steady production in the backfield. Despite this and their 3rd consecutive playoff berth, they collapsed after the injury to Micah Parsons vs. the Broncos, losing their remaining games and then blowing a 21-3 lead vs. the Bears as their defense was nothing without him.

Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings finished the year at 9–8, a season that kept them competitive but ultimately left them short of serious playoff contention. Wide receiver Justin Jefferson remained the centerpiece of the offense, putting up elite numbers and reminding everyone why he’s one of the best in the league. Wideout Jordan Addison also continued to develop, giving Minnesota a strong receiving duo. However, J.J. McCarthy, who was basically playing his rookie season after his season-ending injury last year, struggled mightily with filling in where Sam Darnold left off, throwing more interceptions than touchdowns and becoming considered one of the worst starting quarterbacks in the league. He looked a little better near the end of the season, but significant steps forward need to be taken in order for this team to return to the postseason.

Detroit Lions

The Lions finished the season at 9–8, a step back from their breakout campaign the year before. Quarterback Jared Goff remained steady, guiding the offense with his usual efficiency, while wide receiver Amon‑Ra St. Brown continued to shine as one of the league’s most reliable playmakers. The running back duo of David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs provided balance, giving Detroit a versatile attack that could move the ball on the ground and through the air. However, the Lions failed to make the playoffs, and if they can’t keep consistency later on in the season, they may never see the Super Bowl stage.

AFC WEST

Denver Broncos

The Broncos shocked the league in 2025, finishing 14–3, winning the AFC West, and advancing all the way to the AFC Championship Game before falling to the New England Patriots 10–7. It was their best season in nearly a decade, built on a dominant defense and clutch performances in big games. Bo Nix was clutch when he needed to be, and if he hadn’t gotten injured in the divisional game, they may have made it all the way for the first time in 10 years.

Los Angeles Chargers

The Los Angeles Chargers finished the 2025 season at 11–6, placing 2nd in the AFC West, but were eliminated in the Wild Card round by the New England Patriots, losing 16–3. Despite a strong start and solid roster talent, their offense faltered late in the year and in the postseason. The offensive line continued to be one of the worst in the league, and especially with the loss of Joe Alt early in the year, their problems were put on full display. Justin Herbert has yet to prove himself in the playoffs, now being 0-3 in playoff games he started. 

Kansas City Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs had a disastrous 2025 season, finishing 6–11, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2014, and losing quarterback Patrick Mahomes to a torn ACL in Week 15. Head coach Andy Reid has already promised major roster and scheme changes heading into 2026, something that is drastically needed. With this being the first time they’ve missed the playoffs with Mahomes, however, significant help will be needed on the offensive and defensive sides of the ball.

Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders had a tough year, finishing 3–14 and landing at the bottom of the AFC West. Despite having elite talent at a few positions, the team struggled to find consistency on either side of the ball. Their defense was horrific, their offensive line was one of the worst in the league, and their starting quarterback, Geno Smith, may have just played his final snaps as a starter. He threw 17 interceptions and was consistently one of the worst quarterbacks this year. Ashton Jeanty and Brock Bowers were the only people who kept this team from going 0-17.

AFC SOUTH

Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jacksonville Jaguars finished the 2025 season at 13–4, winning the AFC South but losing in the Wild Card round to the Buffalo Bills, 27–24. It was a major turnaround from their 4–13 record in 2024, marking one of the biggest single‑season improvements in franchise history. Liam Coen proved he’s a reliable coach in this league, and his coaching of Trevor Lawrence seemed to flip a switch, as Lawrence was an MVP-caliber quarterback near the end of the season. This team can easily repeat that, and if Brian Thomas Jr. can come back from his sophomore slump, they could make a Super Bowl push next season.

Houston Texans

The Texans were one of the AFC’s most improved teams in 2025, finishing 12–5 and placing 2nd in the AFC South under head coach DeMeco Ryans. Powered by quarterback C.J. Stroud and a young, dynamic roster, Houston returned to the playoffs for the third straight season and showed they’re building toward long‑term contention. However, consistent quarterback play will be needed if they ever want to chase a Super Bowl.

Indianapolis Colts

The Colts had a challenging year, finishing 8–9 and missing the playoffs. While there were flashes of promise, inconsistency on both sides of the ball kept them from competing for the AFC South crown. Daniel Jones was making a case for MVP at the start of the season, but this quickly changed after he tore his Achilles tendon late in the season. The team was 8-4 by this point after an 8-2 start, getting so desperate that they signed Philip Rivers to come back and play for 3 games. He lost all three starts, and the team finished with a 7-game losing streak as a result.

Tennessee Titans

The Tennessee Titans finished the 2025 NFL season with a 3–14 record, last in the AFC South, and missed the playoffs. Head coach Brian Callahan was fired after a 1–5 start, with Mike McCoy serving as interim coach. Defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons and punt returner Chimere Dike were the team’s lone All‑Pros. Cam Ward showed many flashes of his ability, and he made many Houdini plays throughout the season, but this was undermined by his having objectively the worst supporting cast around him in the league. With Robert Saleh coming in as HC, there could be a chance of this team being a wild card next season.

AFC EAST

New England Patriots

The New England Patriots finished the 2025 season at 14–3, winning the AFC East and advancing all the way to Super Bowl LX, their record‑tying 12th appearance. While they did come up short, you still have to tip your hat to the season they had. Led by second-year quarterback Drake Maye and first‑year head coach Mike Vrabel, the Patriots defeated the Chargers, Texans, and Broncos in the playoffs and faced the Seattle Seahawks in the Super Bowl, all top 10 defenses. While you can say they had one of the easiest schedules in NFL history this past season, going from back-to-back 4-13 seasons to the 2 seed is nothing short of incredible.

Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills finished the 2025 NFL season with a 12–5 record, placing 2nd in the AFC East. They won their Wild Card matchup against the Jaguars but were eliminated in the Divisional Round by the Broncos in overtime. It was the team’s final season at Highmark Stadium and the last under head coach Sean McDermott. Josh Allen, while having a solid season in terms of overall numbers, wasn’t as effective this year and greatly increased his sacks taken and total takeaways this season.

Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins had a turbulent season, finishing 7–10 and missing the playoffs. Despite moments of offensive explosiveness, their overall inconsistency and defensive lapses kept them from contending in the AFC East. Head coach Mike McDaniel faced challenges integrating new personnel while dealing with injuries to key starters. This is the main reason the team decided to fire him after the season concluded, finishing his tenure just above .500 in winning percentage.

New York Jets

The New York Jets finished the 2025 NFL season at 3–14, last in the AFC East, marking one of the worst campaigns in franchise history. It was their first year under head coach Aaron Glenn and GM Darren Mougey, but the team struggled badly on both sides of the ball and extended their playoff drought to 15 years. They also set an unbreakable NFL record, recording zero interceptions on defense and only having four takeaways as a team all season, all of which were fumble recoveries.

AFC NORTH

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers finished the 2025 NFL season at 10–7, winning the AFC North but losing in the Wild Card round to the Houston Texans (30–6). It was the final season under head coach Mike Tomlin, ending his 19‑year tenure in Pittsburgh. Aaron Rodgers proved he still had more in the tank, but this was undermined by his having one of the worst wide receiver corps in the league outside of DK Metcalf, who still underperformed expectations. It is unknown if he will come back for one more season at this point, but it appears as though they could be heading towards that, particularly with new head coach Mike McCarthy being Rodgers's past HC in Green Bay.

Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens endured a disappointing season, finishing 8–9 and missing the playoffs. Despite having one of the league’s most talented rosters, inconsistency on offense and injuries derailed their campaign. Head coach John Harbaugh faced mounting pressure as the team failed to build on prior success. Lamar never appeared as though he was healthy this year, and that was shown through his stats and the overall performance of the offense.

Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals endured a tough year, finishing 6–11 and missing the playoffs. It was a season marked by injuries, offensive struggles, and defensive inconsistency. Head coach Zac Taylor remained at the helm, but questions about the team’s direction continue to grow louder as the Bengals regress from their recent playoff runs. If Joe Burrow can stay healthy next year and their defense can be even league average, they could return to the postseason.

Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns finished the 2025 NFL season with a 5–12 record, placing last in the AFC North and missing the playoffs. It was Kevin Stefanski’s final year as head coach, while defensive star Myles Garrett broke the single‑season sack record, earned the DPOY, and also earned 1st‑team All‑Pro honors and was a Pro Bowler. Shedeur Sanders showed flashes of good quarterback play but was too inconsistent this year to prove he is a capable starting quarterback in this league. This team’s rookies are the lone bright spot in an otherwise forgettable season overall.