Playoff Format Changes Under Consideration for 2025
The NFL is once again at the center of a major postseason debate, as owners prepare to vote on a proposal that could reshape the playoff seeding process as early as next season. The proposal, submitted by the Detroit Lions, would see all seven playoff teams in each conference seeded strictly by regular-season record, rather than giving automatic top-four seeds to division winners. This means a wild-card team with a better record than a division champion could host a playoff game, a significant shift from the current system. The league’s owners are set to meet in Minneapolis on May 20-21 to discuss and potentially vote on the change. Commissioner Roger Goodell has called the proposal “a very healthy” idea, citing data that supports rewarding teams for strong regular-season performance. However, there is pushback from some owners and media who argue that division titles should still carry weight. The outcome of the vote could have a major impact on playoff matchups and home-field advantage starting in 2025.
Rookie Running Backs Poised for Impact in 2025
The 2025 NFL Draft saw a surge in running back selections, with 25 rookies joining teams—the most since 2019. Analysts have divided these rookies into tiers based on their expected roles. Ashton Jeanty, drafted by the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 6 overall, stands out as the only rookie projected for true “bellcow” usage. Jeanty’s college production and three-down skills suggest he could quickly become an elite NFL back, especially under new offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. Other notable rookies include Omario Hampton of the Los Angeles Chargers and Quinshon Judkins of the Cleveland Browns, both expected to lead their respective backfields. Several mid-to-late round picks, such as Cam Skattebo of the New York Giants and Jaydon Blue of the Dallas Cowboys, could also carve out significant roles if they impress during training camp. The influx of young talent is expected to shake up depth charts and create new competition for veteran players across the league.
Rookie Quarterbacks: Team Fits and Early Projections
Quarterbacks were also a major storyline in the draft, with 13 rookies selected. Only two were first-round picks, but several Day 2 and Day 3 selections could see playing time in 2025. Cam Ward, the No. 1 overall pick by the Tennessee Titans, is expected to start immediately and brings a dynamic playmaking style to a team in transition. Jaxson Dart of the New York Giants is likely to spend his rookie year learning behind veterans, but his deep-ball accuracy fits head coach Brian Daboll’s offensive philosophy. Tyler Shough of the New Orleans Saints will compete for the starting job after the retirement of Derek Carr. Other rookies, such as Jalen Milroe of the Seattle Seahawks and Dillon Gabriel of the Cleveland Browns, are expected to develop behind established starters but could see action in special packages or if injuries occur. Teams are placing a premium on scheme fit and long-term development, with several rookies positioned as future starters.
Antonio Brown Involved in Miami Altercation
Former NFL star Antonio Brown made headlines after being involved in an altercation following a celebrity boxing event in Miami. Brown reported on social media that he was “jumped by multiple individuals” who tried to rob him of his jewelry. Police responded to the scene after gunshots were detected by a ShotSpotter system, but no injuries were reported and no arrests were made. Brown was briefly detained for questioning but was released without charges. He has stated his intention to consult legal counsel and may pursue charges against his attackers. Brown, who last played in the NFL in 2021, remains a controversial figure due to both his on-field achievements and off-field incidents.
Caleb Williams’ Draft Drama and Chicago Bears’ Quarterback Woes
A new book has revealed that Caleb Williams, the top quarterback prospect in the 2024 draft, and his family explored ways to avoid being drafted by the Chicago Bears. The family consulted lawyers and even considered having Williams play in the United Football League for a year to bypass the NFL’s draft system. Williams’ father was vocal about concerns regarding the Bears’ history with quarterbacks and organizational instability. Despite these efforts, Bears general manager Ryan Poles made it clear the team would draft Williams regardless. After visiting the team’s facility, Williams accepted his fate and expressed confidence in his ability to help turn the franchise around. His rookie season was challenging, with coaching changes and a 10-game losing streak, but he showed promise statistically. The Bears have since hired Ben Johnson as offensive coordinator, and both Johnson and Williams are optimistic about the team’s future.
Quarterback Contracts Continue to Climb
The NFL’s quarterback market saw another major development as Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers signed a five-year, $265 million contract extension. This deal places Purdy among the top ten highest-paid quarterbacks in the league, with an average annual value of $53 million. Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills also recently signed a six-year, $330 million extension, including a record $250 million in guarantees. These massive contracts reflect the rising salary cap and the premium placed on elite quarterback play. However, only a handful of the highest-paid quarterbacks have translated their earnings into Super Bowl victories, with Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs remaining the standard-bearer for both performance and contract value.
League Trends and Looking Ahead
The past week’s news highlights several key trends in the NFL. The debate over playoff seeding reflects a broader push for competitive balance and rewarding regular-season excellence. The influx of rookie talent, especially at running back and quarterback, signals a generational shift as teams look to develop the next wave of stars. Off-field incidents, such as the altercation involving Antonio Brown, continue to draw attention to player conduct and league security. Meanwhile, the escalation of quarterback contracts underscores the financial stakes involved in building a championship contender. As teams prepare for offseason workouts and training camps, fans can expect more updates on roster battles, injury recoveries, and potential rule changes that could shape the 2025 season and beyond.