Projected 2025 Record: 9.5-7.5
The San Francisco 49ers hold a 62.3% chance to make the playoffs and a 21.2% chance to win their division, with a 32.5% probability of advancing to the divisional round—tops among wild card hopefuls. Following years of consistent Super Bowl contention, the 49ers faced a transition offseason, losing key players like Deebo Samuel, Javon Hargrave, Charvarius Ward, Dre Greenlaw, and Talanoa Hufanga, which brought significant dead money and roster turnover. This financial reset positions the team to rebuild around Brock Purdy, whose pending contract extension is a pivotal step for the franchise. Meanwhile, John Lynch will prioritize retaining core free agents like George Kittle and Jauan Jennings. San Francisco leaned heavily on the draft to replenish their depleted defense, selecting edge rusher Mykel Williams, defensive tackle Alfred Collins, and acquiring Nick Martin to help replace Greenlaw. With the NFC West growing more competitive, the 49ers must improve their defense—ranked 26th in Defense+ last year—to remain contenders.
Projected 2025 Record: 8.0-9.0
The New York Jets face a tough schedule but have a 33.3% chance of making the playoffs if Justin Fields can ignite the offense. Moving on from Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams, the Jets are banking on Fields and Breece Hall’s rushing combo, boosted by new right tackle Armand Membou. Second-round tight end Mason Taylor adds much-needed pass-catching help beyond Garrett Wilson. On defense, new coordinator Glenn aims to restore aggressiveness with more man coverage and blitzes. With promising young CB Azareye’h Thomas competing for a starting spot opposite Sauce Gardner, the defense looks to rebound from a shaky finish. Without the pressure of expectations from the Rodgers era, the Jets could surprise in 2025 if Glenn’s defense returns to its elite form.
Owned by Jeanie Buss and the Buss family, the Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most successful teams in NBA history, playing at Crypto.com Arena. Established in 1947, they have won 17 NBA championships (1949, 1950, 1952-1954, 1972, 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988, 2000-2002, 2009, 2010, 2020), tied for the most in league history. Legends like Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James have shaped their dynasty and global appeal.
Owned by the Mara and Tisch families, the New York Giants are one of the oldest NFL franchises, playing at MetLife Stadium. Founded in 1925, they have won four Super Bowls (1986, 1990, 2007, 2011) and four pre-Super Bowl championships. Their biggest moments include upsets against the Patriots in Super Bowls XLII and XLVI.
Owned by Robert Kraft, the New England Patriots are one of the most decorated franchises in NFL history, playing at Gillette Stadium. Established in 1960, they have won six Super Bowls (2001, 2003, 2004, 2014, 2016, 2018), all under Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady. Their two-decade dominance, multiple championships, and consistent playoff appearances have made them one of the most respected and valuable teams in football.
Owned by James Dolan and Madison Square Garden Sports, the New York Knicks are among the most valuable NBA franchises, playing at Madison Square Garden. Established in 1946, they have won two NBA championships (1970, 1973), led by legends like Willis Reed and Walt Frazier.
(Preseason #2)
Aaron Judge and Paul Goldschmidt are one-two in baseball in batting average, with Judge hitting .406 currently. Max Fried is having one of his best starts to a season in his career, sitting 5-0 with a 1.43 ERA through six starts. The Yankees are still the clear favorites to represent the AL in the World Series.
Owned by Stan Kroenke, the Los Angeles Rams compete in the NFL and play at the futuristic SoFi Stadium, which they share with the Chargers. Founded in 1936, the franchise has won two Super Bowls (1999, 2021). They relocated back to Los Angeles in 2016 after spending over two decades in St. Louis, and their 2021 championship under Sean McVay and Matthew Stafford boosted their market presence.
Owned by Joe Lacob and Peter Guber, the Golden State Warriors are one of the most successful modern NBA franchises, playing at Chase Center. Established in 1946, they have won seven NBA championships (1947, 1956, 1975, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2022), with their recent dynasty fueled by stars like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson.
Projected 2025 Record: 6.6-10.4
The Dallas Cowboys open 2025 on Thursday Night against the Eagles, facing a tough slate ahead. They have just a 10.9% chance to make the playoffs and a notable chance to contend for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 Draft. Their 2024 season fell apart after Dak Prescott’s injury, but even healthy, the team struggled with a 25th-ranked defense and an offense ranked 20th in scoring and 23rd in EPA per play. Free agency was quiet, adding role players like Javonte Williams and Dante Fowler Jr. The retirement of Zack Martin leaves a big gap at right guard, which they addressed by drafting Alabama’s Tyler Booker in Round 1. Dallas also replaced key departures Lewis and Lawrence with promising rookies Shavon Revel Jr. and Donovan Ezeiruaku. The draft remains a strong point for Dallas and could help them rebound in 2025 if health improves.
