2025 NFL Season Preview: Expert Predictions on Super Bowl Contenders, MVP Favorites, and Rising Stars

Leading NFL analysts weigh in on the upcoming season, predicting Super Bowl matchups, MVP frontrunners, breakout candidates, and teams facing potential regression.

The 2025 NFL offseason is in full swing following the Philadelphia Eagles' Super Bowl LIX triumph. With free agency and the draft on the horizon, ESPN's 13 NFL experts have shared their early insights for Super Bowl LX. Here's a breakdown of their predictions:

Super Bowl LX Predictions

  • Matt Bowen: Lions over Ravens
  • Jeremy Fowler: Bills over Rams
  • Dan Graziano: Chiefs over Commanders
  • Kalyn Kahler: Eagles over Bills
  • Pamela Maldonado: Bengals over Commanders

MVP Favorites

  • Joe Burrow (Bengals): After a stellar 2024 season, Burrow is poised to lead the Bengals back to the playoffs and claim the MVP.
  • Jayden Daniels (Commanders): The Offensive Rookie of the Year could continue his meteoric rise.
  • Lamar Jackson (Ravens): Jackson aims for his third MVP with a historic statistical season.

Breakout Candidates

  • Caleb Williams (Bears): Under new head coach Ben Johnson, Williams could elevate his game significantly.
  • Rome Odunze (Bears): Expected to shine as a three-level target.
  • Drake Maye (Patriots): With an improved offensive line, Maye could showcase his natural talents.

Potential Regression Teams

  • Lions: Losing both coordinators could lead to early-season challenges.
  • Vikings: Replicating a 14-win season with key free agent departures will be tough.
  • Commanders: After a magical run, they might take a step back.

Key Offseason Moves

  • Tee Higgins to the Commanders: Adding Higgins could give Jayden Daniels another elite target.
  • Myles Garrett to the Lions: Pairing Garrett with Aidan Hutchinson could create a dominant pass rush.

For more detailed analysis and offseason updates, follow ESPN's NFL coverage.

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