Projecting Every NFL Team's Starting Lineup for 2025

The NFL draft is over and, for the most part, free agency wrapped up several weeks ago. Meanwhile, teams are holding minicamps and OTAs, as spring practices are underway.

That means the offseason is nearly over, and training camp is just around the corner with position battles around the league getting started.

To preview those competitions on the depth chart, let's try to predict each team's starting lineup for the 2025 season.

For uniformity, we'll use 11 personnel offensively and nickel personnel defensively for each team. That means five offensive linemen, one quarterback, three wide receivers, one running back and a tight end; and four defensive linemen (two tackles and two ends), two linebackers and five defensive backs.

AFC East

AP Photo/Charles Krupa

New England Patriots tackle Will Campbell

Buffalo Bills

Offense: QB Josh Allen, RB James Cook, WR Keon Coleman, WR Joshua Palmer, WR Khalil Shakir, TE Dawson Knox, LT David Edwards, LG David Edwards, C Connor McGovern, RG O'Cyrus Torrence, RT Spencer Brown

Defense: DE Greg Rousseau, DT DaQuan Jones, DT Ed Oliver, DE A.J. Epenesa, LB Matt Milano, LB Terrel Bernard, CB Christian Benford, CB Maxwell Hairston, NB Taron Johnson, S Damar Hamlin, S Taylor Rapp

The Bills don't have much drama offensively.

Maybe free-agent signing Kendrick Green or 2024 fifth-round pick Sedrick Van Pran-Granger will push Torrence for a spot up front, but he has been the team's starting right guard over the last two seasons. Knox versus Dalton Kincaid at tight end will be another battle to keep an eye on.

The other side of the ball is a different story, though. Epenesa will have to fend off free-agent signing Joey Bosa, who Buffalo might want to keep on a pitch count to begin the season.

At cornerback, Hariston should be able to beat out Tre'Davious White if the first-round pick lives up to expectations during training camp. Meanwhile, safety is up in the air as Cole Bishop should push Hamlin and Rapp for their jobs.

Miami Dolphins

Offense: QB Tua Tagovailoa, RB De'Von Achane, WR Tyreek Hill, WR Jaylen Waddle, WR Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, TE Jonnu Smith, LT Patrick Paul, LG James Daniels, C Aaron Brewer, RG John Savaiinaea, RT Austin Jackson

Defense: Edge Bradley Chubb, DL Zach Sieler, DL Kenneth Grant, Edge Jaelan Phillips, LB Jordyn Brooks, LB Tyrel Dodson, CB Jalen Ramsey, CB Artie Burns, NB Kader Kohou, S Ifeatu Melifonwu, S Ashtyn Davis

The Dolphins will enter training camp with a lot of questions offensively, especially in the trenches.

Replacing Terron Armstead will be a challenge, and ideally Paul will rise to the occasion. But the 2024 second-round pick will need to beat out free-agent signing Larry Borom. On the interior of the line, offseason additions Daniels and Savaiinaea are the favorites to land the starting guard spots

It's anyone's guess who is going to be starting in Miami's secondary this year, especially considering the team is reportedly looking to trade Ramsey. Also, the defense lost Kendall Fuller and both starting safeties from last season, making it a wide-open competition on the backend of the unit.

New England Patriots

Offense: QB Drake Maye, RB Rhamondre Stevenson, WR Stefon Diggs, WR DeMario Douglas, WR Mack Hollins, TE Hunter Henry, LT Will Campbell, LG Cole Strange, C Garrett Bradbury, RG Mike Onwenu, RT Morgan Moses

Defense: Edge Harold Landry III, DL Milton Williams, NT Khyiris Tonga, DL Christian Barmore, LB Christian Elliss, LB Robert Spillane, CB Carlton Davis, CB Christian Gonzalez, NB Marcus Jones, S Kyle Dugger, LB Jabrill Peppers

New England's offense will look very different from last season, as five projected starters weren't on the roster a year ago. Also, it wouldn't be surprising to see Jared Wilson or Wes Schweitzer beat out Strange at left guard, and/or TreVeyon Henderson get the nod over Stevenson to make it six or seven new first-stringers.

The Patriots will also have several new starters defensively, with five free-agent signings expected to crack the lineup (Williams, Tonga, Landry, Spillane and Davis). That doesn't leave much room for drama/position battles, but Anfernee Jennings and Keion White should at least be key rotational players on the defensive line.

New York Jets

Offense: QB Justin Fields, RB Breece Hall, WR Garrett Wilson, WR Josh Reynolds, WR Malachi Corley, TE Mason Taylor, LT Olu Fashanu, LG John Simpson, C Joe Tippman, RG Alijah Vera-Tucker, RT Armand Membou

Defense: DE Jermaine Johnson, DT Quinnen Williams, DT Derrick Nnadi, DE Michael Clemons, LB Quincy Williams, LB Jamien Sherwood, CB Sauce Gardner, CB Qwan'tez Stiggers, NB Michael Carter II, S Tony Adams, S Andre Cisco

The assumption here is Allen Lazard will get traded to whatever team Aaron Rodgers signs with (i.e., the Pittsburgh Steelers), opening up a starting spot at slot receiver for Corley.

Staying out wide, free-agent signing Tyler Johnson or fourth-round pick Arian Smith could push Reynolds for a starting spot since the latter is coming off a down year.

Maybe Will McDonald IV starts over Clemons, but McDonald might be more of a third-down pass-rusher, and the Jets' front seven is pretty set outside of that. 

Outside of Gardner, the secondary is a different story. The defense is looking at having at least one new starter at safety and cornerback. While free-agent signing Brandon Stephens is the favorite to start opposite Gardner, don't sleep on Stiggers, who was a CFL All-Star and Rookie of the Year in 2023.

NFC East

DeJean Dave Shopland/AP Images for the NFL

Philadelphia Eagles defensive back Cooper DeJean

Dallas Cowboys

Offense: QB Dak Prescott, RB Javonte Williams, WR CeeDee Lamb, WR George Pickens, WR Jalen Tolbert, TE Jake Ferguson, LT Tyler Guyton, LG Tyler Smith, C Cooper Beebe, RG Tyler Booker, RT Terrance Steele

Defense: Edge Micah Parsons, DT Mazi Smith, DT Osa Odighizuwa, Edge Marshawn Kneeland, LB Kenneth Murray, LB DeMarvion Overshown, CB Trevon Diggs, CB DaRon Bland, NB Israel Mukuamu, S Donovan Wilson, S Malik Hooker

It's an open competition in Dallas' backfield as rookie fifth-round pick Jaydon Blue or fellow free-agent signing Miles Sanders could easily beat out Williams for the starting running back spot. The offense's WR3 spot is up for grabs, and Guyton struggled in year one to leave the door open at left tackle, too.

The biggest question on the defense is: Who's healthy? The unit has several players who are coming off season-ending injuries, so their availability to begin the season is up in the air. Beyond that, Dallas should have open competitions for the starting nickel and linebacker spots.

New York Giants

Offense: QB Russell Wilson, RB Tyrone Tracy Jr., WR Malik Nabers, WR Darius Slayton, WR Wan'Dale Robinson, TE Theo Johnson, LT Andrew Thomas, LG Jon Runyan, C John Michael Schmitz Jr., RG Greg Van Roten, RT Jermaine Eluemunor

Defense: Edge Brian Burns, DT Dexter Lawrence II, DL Rakeem Nuñez-Roches, Edge Abdul Carter, LB Bobby Okereke, LB Micah McFadden, CB Paulson Adebo, CB Deonte Banks, NB Dru Phillips, S Jevon Holland, S Tyler Nubin

The Jaxson Dart era in New York will likely have to wait a while as he could use some time to develop, and Wilson projects as the starter to begin the season. Rookie fourth-round pick Cam Skattebo could make a push for the starting spot at running back, but outside of that, there shouldn't be much drama for the Giants' offense.

Defensively, it will be interesting to see who starts on the edge during Week 1. Kayvon Thibodeaux has been a starter since the club drafted him three years ago and has been a solid player, but using the No. 3 pick of the draft on Carter means the 2022 first-rounder will have a different role this season. 

Also, rookie defensive tackle Darius Alexander could easily become a first-stringer in the trenches this year.

Philadelphia Eagles

Offense: QB Jalen Hurts, RB Saquon Barkley, WR A.J. Brown, WR DeVonta Smith, WR Jahan Dotson, TE Dallas Goedert, LT Jordan Mailata, LG Landon Dickerson, C Cam Jurgens, RG Tyler Steen, RT Lane Johnson

Defense: Edge Nolen Smith, DT Jordan Davis, DT Jalen Carter, Edge Azeez Ojulari, LB Zack Baun, LB Jihaad Campbell, CB Quinyon Mitchell, CB Adoree' Jackson, NB Cooper DeJean, S Reed Blankenship, S Sydney Brown

The defending champions are pretty set offensively, where they shouldn't have many position battles during training camp. That said, the one competition to keep an eye on is at right guard after the front office let Mekhi Becton walk and traded for Kenyon Green, who is expected to compete with Steen for the job.

The other side of the ball is a different story, though. The Eagles lost several key defenders from last year, and Nakobe Dean is recovering from a torn patellar tendon, hence the reason Campbell is listed as a starter above.

On top of that, edge-rusher is a wide-open competition in Philadelphia, as Jalyx Hunt, Bryce Huff or Joshua Uche could easily replace Smith or Ojulari.

Washington Commanders

Offense: QB Jayden Daniels, RB Brian Robinson Jr., WR Terry McLaurin, WR Noah Brown, WR Deebo Samuel, TE Zach Ertz, LT Laremy Tunsil, LG Nick Allegretti, C Tyler Biadasz, RG Nate Herbig, RT Brandon Coleman

Defense: Edge Dorance Armstrong, DT Daron Payne, DT Javon Kinlaw, DE Deatrich Wise, LB Bobby Wagner, LB Frankie Luvu, CB Marshon Lattimore, CB Jonathan Jones, NB Mike Sainristil, S Will Harris, S Quan Martin

The Commanders seem set offensively and don't have too many noteworthy position battles heading into training camp. However, the right side of the offensive line is interesting. 

Sam Cosmi is recovering from a torn ACL suffered in the playoffs that could cause him to get a late start this season, while Coleman, Andrew Wylie and rookie Josh Conerly Jr. will compete at tackle. Wylie is also a candidate to fill in for Cosmi.

Defensively, Washington's front seven appears set, where the only clear competition is between Wise and Clelin Ferrell at defensive end. In the secondary, rookie Trey Amos could push Jones for a starting spot, and it's anyone's game at safety.

AFC North

AP Photo/Terrance Williams

Derrick Henry, left, and Lamar Jackson

Baltimore Ravens

Offense: QB Lamar Jackson, RB Derrick Henry, WR DeAndre Hopkins, WR Rashod Bateman, WR Zay Flowers, TE Mark Andrews, LT Ronnie Stanley, LG Andrew Vorhees, C Tyler Linderbaum, RG Daniel Faalele, RT Roger Rosengarten

Defense: Edge Kyle Van Noy, DT Nnamdi Madubuike, DT Travis Jones, Edge Odafe Oweh, LB Roquan Smith, LB Trenton Simpson, CB Nate Wiggins, CB Chidobe Awuzie, NB Marlon Humphrey, S Malaki Starks, S Kyle Hamilton

Both guard spots are interesting for the Ravens. The team lost last year's starting left guard, Patrick Mekari, in the offseason, and Faalele had his ups and downs last year. That creates an open competition on the interior of the offensive line, where rookie third-round pick Emery Jones Jr. is the next man up.

Simpson's spot is up for grabs on the other side of the ball. Free-agent signing Jake Hummel or rookie Teddye Buchanan could earn a starting linebacker spot.

The secondary's outlook was recently thrown for a loop with the news that Ar'Darius Washington tore an Achilles and could be out for the season. That means Starks will be a Week 1 starter while Awuzie should be a first-stringer at outside cornerback, assuming he beats out T.J. Tampa during training camp.

Cincinnati Bengals

Offense: QB Joe Burrow, RB Chase Brown, WR Ja'Marr Chase, WR Tee Higgins, WR Andrei Iosivas, TE Mike Gesicki, LT Orlando Brown Jr., LG Dylan Fairchild, C Ted Karras, RG Lucas Patrick, RT Amarius Mims

Defense: DE Trey Hendrickson, DT B.J. Hill, DT T.J. Slaton, DE Shemar Stewart, LB Demetrius Knight Jr., LB Logan Wilson, CB Cam Taylor-Britt, CB DJ Turner II, NB Dax Hill, S Geno Stone, S Jordan Battle

Both guard spots will be up for grabs in Cincinnati this summer. Cordell Volson is a returning starter who will likely enter training camp ahead of Fairchild, but Volson didn't play very well last year, and the rookie offers more upside.

At right guard, Cody Ford is a candidate to start after filling in as a backup last season. That puts Ford and Patrick in competition during training camp.

The Bengals' defense is hard to predict since Hendrickson and Germaine Pratt could be on the trade block.

Pratt seems more likely to get moved, which is why Knight is getting the nod over him above. If the two-time All-Pro pass-rusher is dealt, look for Joseph Ossai and Myles Murphy to compete for the other defensive end spot.

Cleveland Browns

Offense: QB Kenny Pickett, RB Quinshon Judkins, WR Jerry Jeudy, WR Cedric Tillman, WR Diontae Johnson, TE David Njoku, LT Cornelius Lucas, LG Joe Bitonio, C Ethan Pocic, RG Wyatt Teller, RT Jack Conklin

Defense: DE Myles Garrett, DT Maliek Collins, DT Mason Graham, DE Isaiah McGuire, LB Jordan Hicks, LB Carson Schwesinger, CB Denzel Ward, CB Martin Emerson Jr., NB Greg Newsome II, S Grant Delpit, S Ronnie Hickman

There's no shortage of competitions when it comes to the Browns offense, beginning with the most important position on the field. The unit has a five-man battle under center where a decent case could be made for any of them to start.

Besides Jeudy's spot, it's a wide-open competition at wide receiver where Jamari Thrash is likely the next man up. At left tackle, Dawand Jones will be competing with Lucas.

Defensively, Cleveland has an open spot at linebacker after the news Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah will miss the entire season. That opens up a path for Schwesinger to become a first-stringer as a rookie, but he'll have to fend off Mohamoud Diabate and Jerome Baker.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Offense: QB Mason Rudolph, RB Kaleb Johnson, WR DK Metcalf, WR Robert Woods, WR Calvin Austin III, TE Pat Freiermuth, LT Broderick Jones, LG Isaac Seumalo, C Zach Frazier, RG Mason McCormick, RT Troy Fautanu

Defense: Edge T.J. Watt, DT Cameron Heyward, DT Keeanu Benton, Edge Alex Highsmith, LB Patrick Queen, LB Payton Wilson, CB Darius Slay, CB Joey Porter Jr., NB Beanie Bishop, S Minkah Fitzpatrick, S DeShone Elliott

In full disclosure, Aaron Rodgers will be the Steelers' starting quarterback once he signs with the club, but ink hasn't met paper yet.

Meanwhile, the team is also reshuffling its offensive line as Jones will likely switch from right to left tackle and Fautanu returns from injury. And in the backfield, Johnson might be the starter but is expected to split time with Jaylen Warren.

Using a universal four-man defensive line for this exercise doesn't accurately project the starting defense, as rookie Derrick Harmon will have a starting spot next to Heyward and Benton. That should force Bishop to come off the bench, and he will have some competition at nickel this year after Brandin Echols' signing.

NFC North

AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh

Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson

Chicago Bears

Offense: QB Caleb Williams, RB D'Andre Swift, WR DJ Moore, WR Rome Odunze, WR Luther Burden III, TE Cole Kmet, LT Braxton Jones, LG Joe Thuney, C Drew Dalman, RG Jonah Jackson, RT Darnell Wright

Defense: DE Montez Sweat, DT Gervon Dexter, DT Grady Jarrett, DE Day Odeyingbo, LB Tremaine Edmunds, LB T.J. Edwards, CB Jaylon Johnson, CB Tyrique Stevenson, NB Kyler Gordon, S Jaquan Brisker, S Kevin Byard III

It will be interesting to see if Roschon Johnson can beat out Swift as the Bears' starting running back. Either way, both should get touches this season.

The offense is also expected to lean heavily on two-tight end sets after spending a first-round pick on Colston Loveland, and he will be competing with Kmet at the top of the depth chart.

Defensively, there shouldn't be too much drama in Chicago as the unit returns most of its starters, and free-agent signings Jarrett and Odeyingbo are unquestioned starters.

But the unit could afford to upgrade its CB2 spot since Stevenson hasn't quite lived up to expectations. So, the door is open for rookie fifth-round pick Zah Frazier to surprise people in training camp.

Detroit Lions

Offense: QB Jared Goff, RB David Montgomery, WR Amon-Ra St. Brown, WR Jameson Williams, WR Tim Patrick, TE Sam LaPorta, LT Taylor Decker, LG Graham Glasgow, C Frank Ragnow, RG Tate Ratledge, RT Penei Sewell

Defense: DE Aidan Hutchinson, DT Alim McNeill, DT DJ Reader, DE Marcus Davenport, LB Alex Anzalone, LB Jack Campbell, CB D.J. Reed, CB Terrion Arnold, NB Amik Robertson, S Brian Branch, S Kerby Joseph

Flip a coin to decide between Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs for the Lions' starting running back, as that could depend on the game plan and change week-to-week.

After that, the unit has questions at both guard spots with Kevin Zeitler's departure and Glasgow nearing the end of his career. That opens the door for young players like Ratledge, Christian Mahogany and Miles Frazier.

Defensively, Detroit doesn't have too many position battles. First-round pick Tyleik Williams should get playing time, but he will have a hard time beating out McNeill and Reader if both are healthy.

In the secondary, the ability of Branch, Robertson and Avonte Maddox to cover the slot gives the unit some flexibility. That could put some pressure on Arnold as he had a tough rookie season last fall.

Green Bay Packers

Offense: QB Jordan Love, RB Josh Jacobs, WR Romeo Doubs, WR Matthew Golden, WR Jayden Reed, TE Tucker Kraft, LT Rasheed Walker, LG Aaron Banks, C Elgton Jenkins, RG Sean Rhyan, RT Zach Tom

Defense: Edge Rashan Gary, DT Kenny Clark, DT Devonte Wyatt, Edge Lukas Van Ness, LB Edgerrin Cooper, LB Isaiah McDuffie, CB Jaire Alexander, CB Keisean Nixon, NB Nate Hobbs, S Xavier McKinney, S Evan Williams

Green Bay has a logjam at wide receiver after spending two top-100 picks on the position: Golden and Savion Williams. That could put Christian Watson on the trade block as he recovers from a torn ACL he suffered late last season.

Then, right guard could be an interesting battle between Rhyan and 2024 first-rounder Jordan Morgan.

On the other side of the ball, the Packers' front seven has a handful of question marks. Wyatt has been a solid pass-rusher but struggles against the run to be an every-down player, creating an opening at defensive tackle.

The edge spot opposite Gary is up for grabs with Van Ness, Kingsley Enagbare and Barryn Sorrell battling each other. At linebacker, Quay Walker is another option to start next to Cooper.

Minnesota Vikings

Offense: QB J.J. McCarthy, RB Aaron Jones, WR Justin Jefferson, WR Jordan Addison, WR Jalen Nailor, TE T.J. Hockenson, LT Christian Darrisaw, LG Donovan Jackson, C Ryan Kelly, RG Will Fries, RT Brian O'Neill

Defense: Edge Jonathan Greenard, DT Harrison Phillips, DT Jonathan Allen, Edge Andrew Van Ginkel, LB Blake Cashman, LB Ivan Pace Jr., CB Isaiah Rodgers, CB Mekhi Blackmon, NB Byron Murphy Jr., S Harrison Smith, S Josh Metellus

After letting Sam Darnold go in free agency, it's McCarthy's time to shine in Minnesota. The 2024 first-round pick missed all of last season with a knee injury but will enter as the team's unquestioned starting quarterback.

As for the rest of the offense, the starters feel pretty set as there shouldn't be many, if any, position battles during training camp.

Javon Hargrave should also have a significant role on the Vikings' defense, as an interior pass-rusher and when Brian Flores uses five-man fronts. Also, Flores likes to get creative in the secondary, where Murphy and Metellus will get reps at nickel, and Theo Jackson will be expected to contribute at safety this year, too.

AFC South

AP Photo/John Raoux

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Travis Hunter

Houston Texans

Offense: QB C.J. Stroud, RB Joe Mixon, WR Nico Collins, WR Christian Kirk, WR John Metchie III, TE Dalton Schultz, LT Cam Robinson, LG Tytus Howard, C Jarrett Patterson, RG Juice Scruggs, RT Blake Fisher

Defense: DE Will Anderson Jr., DT Tim Settle Jr., DT Folorunso Fatukasi, DE Danielle Hunter, LB Azeez Al-Shaair, LB Henry To'o To'o, CB Derek Stingley, CB Kamari Lassiter, NB Jalen Pitre, S Calen Bullock, S C.J. Gardner-Johnson

It would be pretty surprising if Tank Dell is ready to play Week 1 after tearing several ligaments in his knee toward the end of last season, and he may miss the 2025 campaign entirely. That's why he isn't listed above. On that note, Metchie will have to fend off rookies Jaylin Noel and Jayden Higgins for playing time. 

Meanwhile, the Texans need improved offensive line play this season, and free-agent signing Laken Tomlinson could factor into the mix at guard in addition to the players listed above.

Defensively, Houston has a few defensive linemen who could crack the starting lineup or at least get significant playing time off the bench outside of the guys above: Denico Autry, Sheldon Rankins, Mario Edwards Jr.

A similar statement could be made at linebacker with free-agent addition E.J. Speed, Christian Harris and Jake Hansen getting some run.

Indianapolis Colts

Offense: QB Daniel Jones, RB Jonathan Taylor, WR Michael Pittman Jr., WR Alex Pierce, WR Josh Downs, TE Tyler Warren, LT Bernhard Raimann, LG Quenton Nelson, C Tanor Bortolini, RG Matt Goncalves, RT Braden Smith

Defense: DE Kwity Paye, DT Grover Stewart, DT DeForest Buckner, DE Laiatu Latu, LB Zaire Franklin, LB Jaylon Carlies, CB Charvarius Ward, CB Jaylon Jones, NB Kenny Moore II, S Nick Cross, S Cam Bynum

The Colts don’t have many position battles on offense, but they do have one at the most important position on the field.

Shane Steichen will likely be on the hot seat to begin the season, so it wouldn't be surprising to see him go with the safer route at quarterback instead of hoping Anthony Richardson's accuracy significantly improves.

In the trenches, the team did lose Ryan Kelly and Will Fries this offseason, but the competition is more at guard since Bortolini did a solid job filling in for Kelly during a handful of games last year. Danny Pinter and Dalton Tucker will push Goncalves, who is converting from tackle, for the starting spot.

On the other side of the ball, there could be some drama at linebacker as Indianapolis looks to replace E.J. Speed. However, Carlies had a few good moments as a rookie last year to be the favorite to start.

Cornerback is another spot that could be up for grabs, but Jones was solid in 2024, and adding Ward in the offseason should give the defense its two starters on the boundary.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Offense: QB Trevor Lawrence, RB Travis Etienne Jr., WR Brian Thomas Jr., WR Dyami Brown, WR Travis Hunter, TE Brenton Strange, LT Walker Little, LG Ezra Cleveland, C Robert Hainsey, RG Patrick Mekari, RT Anton Harrison

Defense: DE Travon Walker, DT DaVon Hamilton, DT Maason Smith, DE Josh Hines-Allen, LB Devin Lloyd, LB Foyesade Oluokun, CB Tyson Campbell, CB Travis Hunter, NB Jourdan Lewis, S Darnell Savage, S Eric Murray

It will be interesting to see how much Hunter plays at wide receiver during his rookie season, and Parker Washington would be the next wideout up when the Heisman Trophy winner needs a break.

Center and right guard will also be interesting positions to keep an eye on in Jacksonville this summer, as Luke Fortner and/or rookie Wyatt Milum could make a push for playing time.

Hunter is also expected to have a significant role on defense, but 2023 third-round pick Jarrian Jones could end up earning the starting spot, especially if the Colorado product gets more run on offense. In the trenches, Arik Armstead should get playing time off the bench as a situational pass-rusher, like he did a year ago.

Tennessee Titans

Offense: QB Cameron Ward, RB Tony Pollard, WR Calvin Ridley, WR Tyler Lockett, WR Elic Ayomanor, TE Chig Okonkwo, LT Dan Moore Jr., LG Peter Skoronski, C Lloyd Cushenberry III, RG Kevin Zeitler, RT JC Latham

Defense: Edge Dre'Mont Jones, DT Jeffery Simmons, DT T'Vondre Sweat, Edge Arden Key, LB Cody Barton, LB Otis Reese IV, CB L’Jarius Sneed, CB Jarvis Brownlee Jr., NB Roger McCreary, S Amani Hooker, S Xavier Woods

Outside of Ridley, the Titans need some pass-catchers to step up for Ward during his rookie season. Free-agent signing Van Jefferson could also factor into the mix and be a starter this fall, as well as fourth-round pick Dike Chimere.

So could Treylon Burks, but his goose might already be cooked since he’s had minimal production over the last three campaigns.

Defensively, linebacker will be a wide-open competition in Tennessee this summer. Barton might be locked into a starting spot after signing a three-year, $21 million contract this offseason, but the other spot is a big question mark where second-year pros James Williams and Cedric Gray will be competing with Reese.

NFC South

AP Photo/Danny Karnik

Michael Penix Jr.

Atlanta Falcons

Offense: QB Michael Penix Jr., RB Bijan Robinson, WR Drake London, WR Darnell Mooney, WR Ray-Ray McCloud III, TE Kyle Pitts, LT Jake Matthews, LG Matthew Bergeron, C Ryan Neuzil, RG Chris Lindstrom, RT Kaleb McGary

Defense: Edge Leonard Floyd, DL David Onyemata, DL Morgan Fox, Edge Jalon Walker, LB Troy Andersen, LB Kaden Elliss, CB A.J. Terrell, CB Mike Hughes, NB Dee Alford, S Jessie Bates III, S Xavier Watts

After sitting for most of last season and playing well in a handful of starts, Penix will take over as the Falcons’ quarterback. With the rest of the starting lineup pretty much set, the team’s biggest question offensively is if or when  Kirk Cousins will get traded.

Defensively, Atlanta should have a few position battles in the trenches. Floyd, Walker and James Pearce Jr. will compete for the two starting edge spots, while the defensive tackle spots are up for grabs with Onyemata, Fox and 2024 draft picks Ruke Orhorhoro and Brandon Dorlus competing for playing time.

At safety, Watts and free-agent signing Jordan Fuller will fight for the opening next to Bates.

Carolina Panthers

Offense: QB Bryce Young, RB Chuba Hubbard, WR Tetairoa McMillan, WR Xavier Legette, WR Adam Thielen, TE Tommy Tremble, LT Ikem Ekwonu, LG Damien Lewis, C Austin Corbett, RG Robert Hunt, RT Taylor Moton

Defense: Edge D.J. Wonnum, DT Derrick Brown, DL Tershawn Wharton, Edge Nic Scourton, LB Josey Jewell, LB Trevin Wallace, CB Jaycee Horn, CB Mike Jackson, NB Chau Smith-Wade, S Tre’von Moehrig, S Demani Richardson

Offensively, tight end should be the most interesting position battle in Carolina. Tremble was last year’s starter and is the better blocker between him and Ja’Tavion Sanders to earn the nod heading into training camp.

Other than that, Cade Mays, Brady Christiansen and Chandler Zavala could push for playing time up front, but the unit shouldn’t have many competitions this summer.

The other side of the ball is a different story, though. The Panthers have several options at edge defender, as Princely Umanmielen and Patrick Jones II could also factor into the equation.

At linebacker, the spot next to Jewell is up for grabs, which Christian Rozeboom could take. Finally, the unit’s nickel and second safety spots should have open competitions as well.

New Orleans Saints

Offense: QB Tyler Shough, RB Alvin Kamara, WR Chris Olave, WR Rashid Shaheed, TE Foster Moreau, LT Kevlin Banks Jr., LG Trevor Penning, C Erik McCoy, RG Cesar Ruiz, RT Taliese Fuaga

Defense: DE Chase Young, DT Davon Godchaux, DT Bryan Bresee, DE Carl Granderson, LB Pete Werner, LB Demario Davis, CB Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB Isaac Yiadom, NB Alonte Taylor, S Justin Reid, S Tyrann Mathieu

Derek Carr retiring means the Saints will have a new starting quarterback this fall. Shough is the favorite to win that job, but both Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener made starts last season to make a push for the role.

In the trenches, while Penning flamed out as a tackle, he is an impressive run blocker who could salvage his career at guard.

Defensively, Cameron Jordan is a notable omission above. But Jordan just turned 36 and showed signs of slowing down last season, so it would make sense for New Orleans to go with the younger defensive ends.

A similar situation could happen at linebacker with Davis and Danny Stutsman. The Saints also could have a cornerback competition where Quincy Riley factors into the mix.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Offense: QB Baker Mayfield, RB Bucky Irving, WR Mike Evans, WR Chris Godwin, WR Emeka Egbuka, TE Cade Otton, LT Tristan Wirfs, LG Ben Bredeson, C Graham Barton, RG Cody Mauch, RT Luke Goedeke

Defense: Edge Yaya Diaby, DT Vita Vea, DL Calijah Kancey, Edge Haason Reddick, LB Lavonte David, LB SirVocea Dennis, CB Jamel Dean, CB Zyon McCollum, NB Tykee Smith, S Antoine Winfield Jr., S Christian Izien

Unless Godwin suffers a setback in his rehab, there shouldn’t be many surprises coming from Tampa Bay’s offense this summer. Egbuka will likely become the team’s third wide receiver after being selected in the first round, leaving Jalen McMillan and Sterling Shepard to battle it out as the first wideout off the bench.

The Buccaneers’ big question on defense is who’s starting at linebacker next to David. Dennis should win that job, but Anthony Walker and Deion Jones should be in the mix as well. In the secondary, Benjamin Morrison’s health will be a big factor. If he’s ready to go, Morrison will compete with McCollum for a starting spot.

AFC West

AP Photo/John Locher

Ashton Jeanty of the Las Vegas Raiders

Denver Broncos

Offense: QB Bo Nix, RB Audric Estime, WR Courtland Sutton, WR Marvin Mims Jr., WR Devaughn Vele, TE Evan Engram, LT Garett Bolles, LG Ben Powers, C Luke Wattenberg, RG Quinn Meinerz, RT Mike McGlinchey

Defense: Edge Jonathon Cooper, DL Zach Allen, DL D.J. Jones, Edge Nik Bonitto, LB Dre Greenlaw, LB Alex Singleton, CB Pat Surtain II, CB Riley Moss, NB Jahdae Baron, S Talanoa Hufanga, S Brandon Jones

Sean Payton likes to use a committee at running back, so the “starter” doesn’t mean much. Rookie second-round pick RJ Harvey and Jaleel McLaughlin should get plenty of touches this year. On a similar note, Troy Franklin and rookie third-round pick Pat Bryant will factor into the wide receiver rotation.

Defensively, John Franklin-Myers will have a big role when Denver uses five-man fronts. It will also be interesting to see if Drew Sanders can get some playing time at linebacker after he missed the majority of last season with a torn Achilles and is entering his pivotal third year in the league.

Kansas City Chiefs

Offense: QB Patrick Mahomes, RB Isiah Pacheco, WR Xavier Worthy, WR Hollywood Brown, WR Rashee Rice, TE Travis Kelce, LT Jaylon Moore, LG Kingsley Suamataia, C Creed Humphrey, RG Trey Smith, RT Jawaan Taylor

Defense: DE George Karlaftis, DT Chris Jones, DT Mike Pennel, DE Mike Danna, LB Nick Bolton, LB Drue Tranquill, CB Trent McDuffie, CB Kristian Fulton, NB Chamarri Conner, S Jaden Hicks, S Mike Edwards

The Super Bowl exposed how badly the Chiefs needed to address their left tackle situation this offseason, hence why the front office signed Moore in free agency and used its first-round pick on Josh Simmons.

The latter would be the favorite to start Week 1 if he weren’t coming off a torn patellar tendon. Also, the left guard spot will be one to keep an eye on as Suamataia is expected to slide inside.

Defensively, Kansas City’s secondary will be the primary focus this summer. The organization let Justin Reid walk in the offseason, leaving Bryan Cook and Edwards to battle for a starting safety spot.

At cornerback, ideally, either Jaylen Watson or rookie third-round pick Nohl Williams steps up to earn a starting spot on the boundary so McDuffie can return to his more natural position at nickelback.

Las Vegas Raiders

Offense: QB Geno Smith, RB Ashton Jeanty, WR Jakobi Meyers, WR Jack Bech, WR Tre Tucker, TE Brock Bowers, LT Kolton Miller, LG Jordan Meredith, C Jackson Powers-Johnson, RG Dylan Parham, RT DJ Glaze

Defense: DE Maxx Crosby, DT Christian Wilkins, DT Adam Butler, DE Malcolm Koonce, LB Elandon Roberts, LB Devin White, CB Jakorian Bennett, CB Darien Porter, NB Thomas Harper, S Isaiah Pola-Mao, S Jeremy Chinn

The Raiders are one of a handful of teams that can lean heavily on 12 personnel, as Michael Mayer projects to have a significant role at tight end behind Bowers.

In the trenches, the offense will have a three-man position battle between Meredith, Parham and free-agent signing Alex Cappa for both starting guard spots. Rookie third-round pick Caleb Rogers could factor into that equation, too.

On the other side of the ball, it’s a wide-open competition at linebacker in Las Vegas this summer. Even rookie seventh-round pick Cody Lindenberg has a chance to start, with second-year pros Tommy Eichenberg and Amari Gainer also competing for playing time. 

At cornerback, the nickel spot is up for grabs, where Darnay Holmes could also win the job, and Decamerion Richardson or Eric Stokes will battle Porter on the perimeter.

Los Angeles Chargers

Offense: QB Justin Herbert, RB Najee Harris, WR Ladd McConkey, WR Mike Williams, WR Tre Harris, TE Will Dissly, LT Rashawn Slater, LG Zion Johnson, C Bradley Bozeman, RG Mekhi Becton, RT Joe Alt

Defense: Edge Khalil Mack, DL Da’Shawn Hand, DT Teair Tart, Edge Tuli Tuipulotu, LB Daiyan Henley, LB Denzel Perryman, CB Cam Hart, CB Donte Jackson, NB Tarheeb Still, S Derwin James Jr., S Alohi Gilman

Running back will be the most interesting position to watch for the Chargers’ offense this summer. Rookie first-round pick Omarion Hampton could easily win the starting job, as he and Harris will likely split carries this season.

Also, the club placed the unrestricted free agent tender on the team’s leading rusher from last year, J.K. Dobbins, to potentially throw another back into the mix.

Defensively, Los Angeles let a few defensive linemen go this offseason, most notably Joey Bosa and Poona Ford. Tuipulotu should have a bigger role this fall with Bosa out, and Bud Dupree and rookie fourth-round pick Kyle Kennard can contribute off the bench.

Meanwhile, rookie third-round pick Jamaree Caldwell can push for a starting spot at nose tackle to replace Ford.

NFC West

AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk

Arizona Cardinals

Offense: QB Kyler Murray, RB James Conner, WR Marvin Harrison Jr., WR Michael Wilson, WR Greg Dortch, TE Trey McBride, LT Paris Johnson Jr., LG Evan Brown, C Hjalte Froholdt, RG Isaiah Adams, RT Jonah Williams

Defense: Edge Baron Browning, DL Calais Campbell, DT Dalvin Tomlinson, Edge Josh Sweat, LB Mack Wilson, LB Akeem Davis-Gaither, CB Max Melton, CB Will Johnson, NB Garrett Williams, S Budda Baker, S Jalen Thompson

The Cardinals shouldn’t have too much drama offensively. Zay Jones could push Wilson or Dortch for playing time at wide receiver, and Adams will have to fend off Royce Newman and Jake Curhan for the starting right guard spot. But that should be the 2024 third-round pick’s job to lose.

The other side of the ball is a different story, as Arizona should have several position battles, starting in the trenches.

First-round picks Walter Nolen III and Darius Robinson figure to at least have significant roles off the bench and could crack the starting lineup, especially if the defense uses a lot of odd fronts.

Meanwhile, the competition at cornerback is wide open as Starling Thomas V, Sean Murphy-Bunting and Kei’Trel Clark could all easily become first-stringers during training camp.

Los Angeles Rams

Offense: QB Matthew Stafford, RB Kyren Williams, WR Davante Adams, WR Puka Nacua, WR Tutu Atwell, TE Terrance Ferguson, LT Alaric Jackson, LG Steve Avila, C Coleman Shelton, RG Kevin Dotson, RT Rob Havenstein

Defense: Edge Jared Verse, DT Kobie Turner, DT Poona Ford, Edge Byron Young, LB Nate Landman, LB Omar Speights, CB Darious Williams, CB Ahkello Witherspoon, NB Quentin Lake, S Kam Curl, S Kamren Kinchens

Tyler Higbee will enter training camp as the Rams’ starting tight end, but he’s getting older, is entering a contract year and didn’t look the same last year after recovering from a knee injury during the 2023 playoffs.

Meanwhile, the Rams spent a second-round pick on Ferguson, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see the rookie get the nod over Higbee this fall.

Defensively, Braden Fiske will have a significant role in the trenches as a situational pass-rusher and when Los Angeles uses five-man fronts.

At linebacker, it’s a wide-open competition where Troy Reeder and fifth-round pick Chris Paul Jr. could easily earn a starting spot. It’s anyone’s guess as to who will get playing time on the second level of the Rams’ defense this year.

San Francisco 49ers

Offense: QB Brock Purdy, RB Christian McCaffrey, WR Brandon Aiyuk, WR Ricky Pearsall, WR Jauan Jennings, TE George Kittle, LT Trent Williams, LG Ben Bartch, C Jake Brendel, RG Dominick Puni, RT Colton McKivitz

Defense: DE Nick Bosa, DT Alfred Collins, DT Jordan Elliott, DE Mykel Williams, LB Fred Warner, LB Dee Winters, CB Renardo Green, CB Tre Brown, NB Deommodore Lenoir, S Ji’Ayir Brown, S Jason Pinnock

Aiyuk is recovering from a torn ACL and MCL, which threatens his availability to begin the campaign. If the sixth-year pro isn’t ready to go for Week 1, free-agent signing Demarcus Robinson or fourth-round pick Jordan Watkins will compete for the vacancy at receiver.

Right guard is a position to watch on the 49ers’ offense, as Spencer Burford or Nick Zakelj will push Bartch for playing time.

San Francisco will have an open competition at defensive tackle this summer, where Kevin Givens and fourth-round pick CJ West will factor into the mix with Collins and Elliott.

At safety, Malik Mustapha will be a starter when he returns, but Mustapha suffered a torn ACL in last year’s regular-season finale, which could cause him to be out to begin the 2025 campaign.

Seattle Seahawks

Offense: QB Sam Darnold, RB Kenneth Walker III, WR Cooper Kupp, WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling, WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, TE Noah Fant, LT Charles Cross, LG Grey Zabel, C Olu Oluwatimi, RG Christian Haynes, RT Abraham Lucas

Defense: Edge DeMarcus Lawrence, DL Leonard Williams, DT Byron Murphy II, Edge Boye Mafe, LB Tyrice Knight, LB Ernest Jones IV, CB Devon Witherspoon, CB Riq Woolen, NB Nick Emmanwori, S Coby Bryant, S Julian Love

First-round pick Grey Zabel will fill one of the holes on the interior of the Seahawks’ offensive line, but the center and right guard spots are up for grabs. Anthony Bradford, Jalen Sundell and Sataoa Laumea will push Oluwatimi and Haynes for a starting role.

Seattle’s defensive line is deep, where Jarran Reed, Uchenna Nwosu and Derick Hall should all have significant roles if they aren’t starting.

In the secondary, it will be interesting to see how the coaching staff uses Emmanwori, as he could be the team’s starting nickel or come off the bench. If it’s the latter, expect Witherspoon to be the slot corner and Josh Jobe to line up as an outside cornerback.