The 2025 NFL season is rapidly approaching, following the conclusion of free agency and the 2025 NFL Draft, with most teams having signed their new players. Teams across the league are now engaging in offseason activities, including Organized Team Activities (OTAs), with new head coaches and squads like the Chicago Bears, Dallas Cowboys, Jacksonville Jaguars, Las Vegas Raiders, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, and New York Jets already participating.
This week, 25 other NFL teams will begin their OTA sessions, and we highlight key things to watch as teams prepare for training camp. Some clubs, like the Minnesota Vikings with their 2024 first-round pick JJ McCarthy, have clear areas to monitor, while others such as the reigning Super Bowl LIX champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, focus on how their young secondary players will step up following veteran departures.
Notable players to watch include Michigan cornerback Will Johnson, who despite knee issues, impressed with his coverage skills and was picked by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round. The Atlanta Falcons present an interesting quarterback situation with the newly signed Kirk Cousins and 2023 draft pick Michael Penix Jr. Both offer different skills and challenges, creating a unique dynamic on the roster.
In Carolina, the chemistry between quarterback Bryce Young and wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona’s top receiver prospect from 2025, will be crucial for the Panthers’ success. Meanwhile, Bears’ quarterback Caleb Williams enters his first offseason under new head coach Ben Johnson, with hopes of improving after a challenging rookie season marked by heavy pressure and sacks.
The Dallas Cowboys face questions in their secondary after losing key cornerbacks, while the Chicago Bears will observe changes in offensive coordination under John Morton. The Green Bay Packers’ young wide receiver corps is expected to develop around quarterback Jordan Love, and the Vikings keep a close eye on McCarthy’s health and growth within a strong offensive lineup.
Other storylines include the Saints’ quarterback competition following Derek Carr’s departure, the New York Giants’ quarterback battle involving Russell Wilson and rookie Jaxson Dart, and the young secondary of the Houston Texans under defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. San Francisco’s hopes hinge largely on the health of star running back Christian McCaffrey in OTAs, while Minnesota’s Sam Darnold adjusts to a new offensive context.
Lastly, Buffalo Buckaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield faces yet another new offensive coordinator, and Washington’s offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury introduces wide receiver Deebo Samuel to a new system, raising questions about how his unique skill set will be utilized moving forward.
Fan Take: This comprehensive look at the NFL’s offseason activities reveals the evolving strategies and critical player developments that will shape the 2025 season. For fans, these insights highlight the importance of team chemistry and adaptability, which could redefine competitive dynamics and excitement in the league this year.
