The NFL is the ultimate rollercoaster, where teams can go from world-beaters in Week 4 to laughingstocks by Week 14. Every season brings us a handful of squads that come out hot, get the fan base buzzing, and then completely unravel when it matters most.
In 2025, several teams appear poised to start strong, thanks to soft schedules, offseason momentum, or simply good vibes. But don’t get too comfortable—there are red flags that suggest some serious second-half meltdowns could be on the way.
13. Philadelphia Eagles
They return most of the key pieces from their Super Bowl run and have a cakewalk of a schedule to kick things off. Expect the city to be flying high early—until reality punches them in the mouth midseason.
The defense has some weaknesses, and if the dreaded post-title hangover sets in, this team could suffer a significant decline in November. One or two key injuries, and it all unravels fast.
12. Cincinnati Bengals
Early games against Cleveland and Jacksonville could give Joe Burrow and company a confidence boost out of the gate. When they’re clicking, they’re one of the league’s most dangerous teams.
But late-season slumps have become a bit of a tradition under Zac Taylor. Combine that with defensive question marks, and the wheels could fall off down the stretch.
11. Houston Texans
With C.J. Stroud taking another leap and a front-loaded schedule, Houston could be sitting pretty by Week 6. The offense has serious firepower, and the vibes are good.
But the depth just isn’t there, and as injuries pile up, they might not have the bodies to compete. This team could go from darling to disaster in a matter of weeks.
10. Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen and his new crew could torch defenses early, especially with a surprisingly friendly schedule for a division winner. Expect the hype train to hit full speed by mid-October.
However, this defense has its flaws, and recent history suggests it struggles to execute it effectively. Another late-season implosion could be brewing.
9. San Francisco 49ers
They’ve got the NFL’s softest schedule on paper, and they’ll be healthy—for now. With a loaded roster and excellent coaching, they’ll rack up wins early.
But we’ve seen this movie before. Injuries and a lack of depth could have them limping into December with more questions than answers.
8. Pittsburgh Steelers
Rodgers Mania is coming to town, and the early schedule gives him a real shot to make some noise. Pittsburgh fans will be dreaming big if they start 4-1.
But that offensive line is shaky, and Rodgers is no spring chicken. If things turn sour, the vibes could shift fast.
7. Detroit Lions
The offense is still explosive, and they’ve been starting strong for years. With a few early wins, people will be calling them NFC favorites again.
But the schedule is a beast, and the defense isn’t a sure thing. If injuries hit or the magic wears off, they’re in for a rude awakening.
6. Kansas City Chiefs
It’s still Mahomes, so of course they’ll be dangerous. They might even beat a few top-tier teams early and quiet the doubters—for a bit.
However, this division is now more challenging, and the schedule is grueling. Even Kansas City isn’t immune to burnout.
5. Seattle Seahawks
The defense could carry them to a few sneaky wins, and Sam Darnold might even look competent against early weaklings. It’ll be easy to believe this team is legit by October.
But when the pass rushes get tougher and Darnold has to improvise? That’s when things go sideways—fast.
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Baker and the boys could light it up early with a cushy start and an offense that still packs a punch. Don’t be surprised if they’re 4-2 and talking playoffs.
But losing their offensive coordinator is no small thing, and Baker isn’t exactly known for consistency. The fall could be swift and ugly.
3. Washington Commanders
Opening against the Giants, Raiders, and Falcons? That’s the kind of schedule that makes a team look a lot better than it is.
But when the tougher matchups hit, they might be exposed in a hurry, especially if last year’s overachievements start to look fluky.
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2. Arizona Cardinals
The first six weeks are tailor-made for success, with plenty of beatable opponents. Kyler could be cooking, and the Cardinals could be sitting near the top of the NFC standings.
But the back half of the schedule is a nightmare, and this roster isn’t built for the long haul. They’ll be lucky to finish .500 if the second-half gauntlet hits hard.
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1. Minnesota Vikings
They’ve got the easiest early path in the league—neutral-site games, beatable defenses, and a manageable workload for J.J. McCarthy. The rookie could look like a savior by Week 5.
But after the bye, it’s nothing but heavy hitters. If McCarthy starts to struggle and the defense can’t keep up, this promising start could turn into a total collapse.
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