As the NFL training camps open for the 2025 season, there is a sense of anticipation and excitement in the air. This season, however, carries a weight that extends far beyond the usual expectations. For some franchises, it is more than just another campaign. They are facing a season that could define their legacies, validate bold moves, or expose painful realities about their championship windows. In a recent article, Tom Blair of NFL.com identified the teams that are under the most pressure this season, and it’s no surprise that these teams are facing high expectations and intense scrutiny.
First on the list is the Kansas City Chiefs, who have been one of the most dominant teams in the NFL in recent years. Led by superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs have made it to the Super Bowl two years in a row, winning it all in 2023. However, with their star players getting older and their salary cap situation becoming increasingly tight, the Chiefs are facing a make-or-break season. This could be their last chance to win another Super Bowl before their championship window closes.
Next up is the Los Angeles Rams, who have made some bold moves in the offseason, including trading for star quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The Rams have been a playoff team for the past few years, but they have yet to make it to the Super Bowl. With the addition of Rodgers, the expectations for the Rams are sky-high, and anything less than a Super Bowl win will be considered a disappointment. This season will be a true test of whether their aggressive approach will pay off or backfire.
The Green Bay Packers are also under immense pressure this season, and it’s all because of the drama surrounding their star quarterback, Aaron Rodgers. After months of speculation and rumors, Rodgers finally reported to training camp, but his future with the team is still uncertain. The Packers have been a consistent playoff team with Rodgers at the helm, but they have only made it to one Super Bowl, which they lost. This season, they will be looking to prove that they can win it all with Rodgers and silence all the doubters.
Another team that is facing a crucial season is the Cleveland Browns. After years of being the laughingstock of the NFL, the Browns have finally turned things around and made it to the playoffs last season. With a talented roster and a promising young quarterback in Baker Mayfield, the Browns are expected to take the next step and become legitimate Super Bowl contenders. However, with high expectations come high pressure, and the Browns will have to prove that they are not just a one-season wonder.
Last but not least, the Baltimore Ravens are also under pressure this season. Led by superstar quarterback Lamar Jackson, the Ravens have been one of the best teams in the NFL for the past few years. However, they have yet to make it past the divisional round of the playoffs, and that is something that needs to change this season. The Ravens have a talented roster, and they will be looking to make a deep playoff run and finally get over the hump.
In conclusion, the 2025 NFL season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and pressure-filled seasons in recent memory. The teams mentioned above are facing high expectations and intense scrutiny, and how they perform this season could define their legacies and shape their futures. As fans, we can’t wait to see how these teams will handle the pressure and rise to the challenge. It’s going to be a thrilling season, and we can’t wait to see how it all unfolds.
