NFC Teams' Top Priorities to Address Before the 2025 NFL Season Kickoff
ICARO Media Group
### 2025 NFC Offseason Priorities: Key Issues Each Team Must Address
As the 2025 offseason winds down, most of the top free agents are off the market, and the draft is complete. However, there are still several crucial tasks each NFC team must tackle before the season starts on September 4. Here are the top remaining priorities for each team heading into the new NFL season.
#### Arizona Cardinals: Strengthening the Kyler Murray - Marvin Harrison Jr. Connection
After focusing on upgrading their defense, the Arizona Cardinals must now turn their attention to improving the chemistry between quarterback Kyler Murray and wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. Last season, the duo struggled to find their rhythm, often appearing disconnected. For the Cardinals to transform into contenders, Murray and Harrison will need to synchronize their play significantly.
#### Atlanta Falcons: Trading Kirk Cousins
The Atlanta Falcons are cautiously approaching the situation with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins. Although they are comfortable with Cousins as a backup for Michael Penix Jr., his remaining presence could become a distraction, especially as training camp progresses. With Cousins' contract deemed a sunk cost, the Falcons aim to move him to prevent any disruption in Penix's development.
#### Carolina Panthers: Determining Wide Receiver Hierarchy
The Carolina Panthers have invested heavily in their wide receiver corps by drafting Xavier Legette and Tetairoa McMillan in consecutive first rounds. The primary goal is to establish McMillan as a top target early in the season. If McMillan can demand significant coverage, it will open up the offense, helping Legette serve as a field-stretcher and allowing Adam Thielen to remain reliable in the slot.
#### Chicago Bears: Sorting Out the Running Back Situation
Despite the pre-draft chatter, the Chicago Bears did not make significant additions to their backfield, leaving D'Andre Swift and Roschon Johnson as the top two running backs. While this duo is serviceable, there are concerns regarding their performance behind a previously porous offensive line. The Bears might consider adding a veteran back to elevate their running game and support the offensive strategy.
#### Dallas Cowboys: Contracting Micah Parsons
The Dallas Cowboys continue to delay the contract negotiations with star linebacker Micah Parsons. Although Parsons wished to finalize a deal before free agency, the negotiations have stretched into OTAs. First-time head coach Brian Schottenheimer now faces the challenge of resolving this potential distraction before the season starts.
#### Detroit Lions: Adding an Edge Rusher
General Manager Brad Holmes has yet to fulfill the widely recognized need for an edge rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Despite re-signing the injury-prone Marcus Davenport, the Lions are encouraged to seek additional veteran depth. Options such as Za'Darius Smith or Matthew Judon could be cost-effective and provide the necessary rotational support.
#### Green Bay Packers: Resolving Jaire Alexander's Situation
Jaire Alexander's future with the Green Bay Packers remains uncertain. Although the Packers have offered a restructured deal, a decision must be reached soon. Alexander's contributions as the best boundary corner would be invaluable, but agreeing on a salary satisfying both parties remains a challenge.
#### Los Angeles Rams: Bolstering the Secondary
The Los Angeles Rams have reinforced most positions this offseason, except for the secondary. A potential reunion with Jalen Ramsey, who is on the trade block, would bolster their defense. If Ramsey isn’t the choice, other veterans should be considered to solidify the secondary.
#### Minnesota Vikings: Solidifying Safety Rotation
After losing safety Camryn Bynum to the Colts, the Vikings must reconfigure their defensive backfield. Defensive Coordinator Brian Flores' preference for three-safety sets requires a versatile replacement. There are still solid free-agent safeties on the market who could fill this gap.
#### New Orleans Saints: Settling the Offensive Line
The New Orleans Saints experienced notable changes in their offensive line during OTAs, including first-round pick Kelvin Banks Jr. moving to left tackle and shifting Trevor Penning to left guard from tackle. How Penning adapts to his new role will be pivotal in stabilizing the Saints’ offensive front.
#### New York Giants: Developing Jaxson Dart
The New York Giants must decide on the best developmental path for rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart. With veteran Russell Wilson's performances declining, the coaching staff is under pressure to fast-track Dart's growth to showcase their ability to rejuvenate the team.
#### Philadelphia Eagles: Determining the Right Guard Spot
The departure of Mekhi Becton left a vacancy at right guard for the Philadelphia Eagles. Returning players and new additions, including former first-round pick Kenyon Green, will compete for the position. Offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland’s expertise will be crucial in deciding the starter for the 2025 season.
#### San Francisco 49ers: Preparing Young Defenders
The San Francisco 49ers will rely on their recent draft picks to step up on defense. Rookies Mykell Williams, Alfred Collins, and others will need to quickly adapt to prominent roles to maintain the team's defensive prowess and complement Nick Bosa and Fred Warner.
#### Seattle Seahawks: Resolving Right Guard Issues
The Seattle Seahawks continue to struggle with their offensive line, specifically at right guard. Players like Christian Haynes, Anthony Bradford, and new draftee Bryce Cabeldue will compete for the starting position. The outcome of this battle is critical to the protection Sam Darnold will receive in his first year with Seattle.
#### Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Sorting Out the Secondary
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have planned to transition Tykee Smith from nickel to safety to ensure his presence on the field. The team also drafted Benjamin Morrison and Jacob Parrish to enhance the cornerback position. The performance of these young players will allow Smith's move to safety and provide stability to the secondary.
#### Washington Commanders: Paying Terry McLaurin
Wide receiver Terry McLaurin is set to enter the final year of his contract, and the Washington Commanders must move swiftly to extend his contract. McLaurin's consistent performance as one of the NFL's top wideouts makes him crucial to the Commanders' offense, especially with the development of quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Each of these priorities is key to their respective teams' success as the 2025 NFL season approaches. The upcoming weeks will be crucial in setting the stage for a competitive season ahead.