Introduction
As the NFL gears up for the 2025 season, a careful examination of team rosters reveals some intriguing dynamics within each positional group across the league. Evaluating these units requires a relative perspective—it’s not enough to declare a team strong or weak based solely on its own composition; it’s imperative to consider how each position stacks up against the 31 other franchises. This analytical process offers insights that have proven predictive in past years, helping to identify breakout teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020, Philadelphia Eagles in 2022, and Miami Dolphins in 2023.
Offensive Units
In this analysis, I will rank each of the 10 major offensive and defensive units for all 32 NFL teams, emphasizing an overall ranking that accounts for positional importance. For instance, excelling at the quarterback position bears more weight than having a standout running back. I’ll also highlight standout and struggling positional groups, along with other intriguing combinations to monitor this season.
Quarterbacks
Starting with quarterbacks, the conversation often begins with Lamar Jackson, who has dominated metrics like QBR and expected points added (EPA) in recent seasons. Having achieved All-Pro status twice and winning the MVP award twice, Jackson ended last season with career-high numbers in passing yards and touchdowns, solidifying his elite status. On the other side of the spectrum, the New Orleans Saints face uncertainty following Derek Carr’s retirement, with rookie Tyler Shough likely stepping into the starting role amid competition from Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Vikings are betting on 2024 draft pick J.J. McCarthy to maintain their competitive edge after a successful season last year.
Running Backs
In the running back arena, the duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery is hard to overlook, leading the NFL with impressive yardage and touchdown stats since joining forces in 2023 with over 5,900 yards and 57 touchdowns. Comparatively, Dallas has revamped their backfield with new faces like Najee Harris and Miles Sanders, while the Los Angeles Chargers have injected excitement into their lineup with rookie Omarion Hampton alongside Harris.
Wide Receivers
The wide receiver landscape presents a powerhouse combination in Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, whose performances have elevated the Cincinnati Bengals. However, teams like the Las Vegas Raiders are counting on internal improvements from players like Jakobi Meyers amid a lack of depth. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could boast one of the top groups—pending Chris Godwin’s health—as Mike Evans enters his 32nd year in strong form alongside promising talents like Jalen McMillan and rookie Emeka Egbuka.
Tight Ends
Derek Carr’s departure has led to shifting dynamics in New Orleans, but there’s hope on the horizon with Mason Taylor, a second-round rookie looking to prove his worth. The Baltimore Ravens remain secured with Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely, while Darren Waller returns to the league after a brief retirement to find opportunities in Miami.
Offensive Lines
Offensive lines will play a crucial role throughout the league, with the Philadelphia Eagles again establishing themselves as elite with standout players like Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson, while the Jacksonville Jaguars continue to struggle, needing a turnaround after poor performances among their current personnel.
Defensive Units
On the defensive side, the emerging strength of the Arizona Cardinals contrasts sharply with their past performances, as they now have former stars like Dalvin Tomlinson onboard. In stark contrast, the San Francisco 49ers face challenges, having seen notable departures from their defensive front without proper reinforcements.
Edge Rushers
Superstar edge rusher T.J. Watt stands out for the Pittsburgh Steelers, maintaining his reputation across the league, while the New York Giants bolster their pass rush after investing in Abdul Carter. Conversely, the Washington Commanders will need to navigate replacing talents like Dante Fowler Jr. following his switch to the Dallas Cowboys.
Cornerbacks
The cornerback position sees the Ravens boasting a strong combo with Marlon Humphrey and recent signee Jaire Alexander, while the Miami Dolphins grapple with significant changes, having lost their top two corners, leading to a scramble to fill their roster gaps.
Safeties
Finally, safety pairings like those in Detroit—featuring talents like Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch—demonstrate an emphasis on strengthening their defensive backfield, while uncertainties plague teams struggling to find a solid foundation.
Conclusion
As the 2025 NFL season unfolds, these rankings will shape perceptions of team strengths and weaknesses across the board, laying the foundation for projections and expectations moving forward.
