As the NFL offseason heats up, significant shifts and notable signings have set new expectations for several franchises. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Atlanta Falcons, Los Angeles Rams, and New England Patriots have all grabbed headlines with their roster changes and coaching updates.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Mayfield Era Begins
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are entering the new season with a 9-8 record fresh off an NFC South-winning campaign. The centerpiece of their offseason was signing quarterback Baker Mayfield to a substantial three-year, $100 million contract. Despite this addition, the Buccaneers aren't favored to repeat as division champions according to the latest 2025 Super Bowl odds. Instead, that distinction goes to their division rivals.
Falcons: A New Favorite Emerges
The Atlanta Falcons made waves by acquiring quarterback Kirk Cousins in the offseason. This strategic move has catapulted them to the top of the NFC South odds, with betting lines listing them at -120 to win the division and -196 to make the playoffs. The Falcons' aggressive approach signals a firm push to reclaim dominance in a competitive division.
Expert Insights: Eric Cohen's Predictions
Eric Cohen, a reputable SportsLine NFL expert, closed last season on a high with a 39-28 streak in his NFL predictions. Cohen has also meticulously predicted each team’s final record for the 2024 NFL season in a comprehensive grid format. "Anyone who followed Cohen's NFL predictions won big," the expert commentator noted.
This year, Cohen's forecast includes several intriguing aspects for bettors and fans alike. "See which other surprising winners Cohen is picking only at SportsLine," he advises. His insights promise significant payouts, including a potential Super Bowl result paying almost 100-1, and a win total with plus-money returns.
Los Angeles Rams: McVay’s Consistency
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams are banking on their proven track record under head coach Sean McVay. The Rams have clinched at least 10 wins in three of the past four seasons, highlighted by a 12-5 record and a Super Bowl win in the 2021-22 season. Under McVay’s leadership, they have made five playoff appearances in seven seasons, even though they've only secured the NFC West title once in the last five years.
Encouragingly, the Rams will return most of their offensive production from last year. A standout contributor is running back Kyren Williams, who had an outstanding season with 228 rushing attempts for 1,144 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Patriots: A New Chapter Begins
The New England Patriots find themselves at a crossroads after experiencing losing records in three of their past four seasons. Last year, the Patriots stumbled to a 4-13 record, leading to the departure of long-time head coach Bill Belichick. The new era under head coach Jerod Mayo begins with significant challenges, as three of their first four games in the 2024 season are set on the road.
Eric Cohen’s predictions paint a daunting picture for the Patriots, estimating a grim 2-15 record in their first year after Belichick's departure. As Cohen puts it, "Cohen predicts a grim outcome for the Patriots, estimating they will finish with a 2-15 record in their first year post-Belichick."
These developments across the NFL underscore a season of transition and anticipation, as teams retool and strategize in their quest for victory. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching to see which teams realize their potential and which struggle to find their footing in a rapidly evolving league landscape.