New Head Coaches Aim to Turn Teams Around in 2025
The National Football League is entering a new chapter as several teams have hired new head coaches for the 2025 season. Brian Schottenheimer now leads the Dallas Cowboys, inheriting a talented roster that includes Dak Prescott at quarterback and playmakers like CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. Schottenheimer’s focus on discipline and accountability could help the Cowboys return to playoff contention. If the team can repair its relationship with star defender Micah Parsons, the defense may create enough turnovers and sacks to win close games.
In Chicago, Ben Johnson steps in as head coach of the Bears. He is known for his offensive creativity and now works with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, the top pick in the 2024 draft. The Bears have added new weapons, including Colston Loveland and Luther Burden III, and strengthened their offensive line with veterans like Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson. Johnson’s demanding style will test Williams, but if the rookie adapts, the Bears’ offense could push the team toward a 10-win season.
Other teams have also made bold coaching moves. Bill Vrabel joins the New England Patriots and brings a tough, physical approach. The Patriots have added Stefon Diggs at wide receiver and several new linemen to help young quarterback Drake Maye. Vrabel’s experience as a three-time Super Bowl winner could help the Patriots challenge their rivals with a “Bully Ball” mentality.
The Jacksonville Jaguars have hired Doug Coen, who previously helped revive Baker Mayfield’s career. Coen now works with Trevor Lawrence and a group of promising receivers. The Jaguars’ defense, led by Travis Hunter, is shifting to a new scheme under Anthony Campanile. If the defense can force more turnovers, the Jaguars could become playoff contenders.
The Las Vegas Raiders are also under new leadership, with a coach who favors a run-heavy, disciplined approach. The team will rely on quarterback Geno Smith, tight end Brock Bowers, and running back Ashton Jeanty. Defensive star Maxx Crosby is expected to anchor the defense. The Raiders hope to improve on last year’s four-win season and compete in close games.
Preseason Week 1: Rookie Standouts and Injury Updates
The first week of the 2025 NFL preseason delivered several exciting moments and important updates. The New York Giants defeated the Buffalo Bills 34-25, while the Minnesota Vikings beat the Houston Texans 20-10. The Pittsburgh Steelers won against the Jacksonville Jaguars 31-25, and the Los Angeles Rams overcame the Dallas Cowboys 31-21. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers dominated the Tennessee Titans 29-7, and the Arizona Cardinals edged out the Kansas City Chiefs 20-17. The New York Jets routed the Green Bay Packers 30-10.
One of the top stories was the preseason debut of Shedeur Sanders for the Cleveland Browns. Sanders, a fifth-round rookie, threw two touchdown passes and completed 14 of 23 attempts for 138 yards. He also scrambled for 19 yards, showing poise and confidence. Sanders’ performance drew praise from fans and even LeBron James. With several Browns quarterbacks sidelined by injuries, Sanders took advantage of his opportunity and looked like a professional despite some minor mistakes.
In other rookie news, Cam Ward made his debut for the Titans, and Jaxson Dart played for the Giants. Both showed flashes of potential as they adjust to the NFL level.
Player Injuries and Game Suspensions
Injuries are always a concern during the preseason, and this week was no exception. Detroit Lions safety Morice Norris Jr. was taken off the field in an ambulance after a scary collision with Atlanta Falcons running back Nate Carter. Norris was attended to for about 20 minutes before being transported to a hospital. He later reassured fans on social media that he was okay and thanked everyone for their support. The game was suspended with just over six minutes left, as both coaches agreed not to continue out of respect for Norris’ health.
Other injury updates include Buccaneers running back Rachaad White undergoing tests for a groin injury and Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir being ruled week-to-week with a high ankle sprain. Bengals running back Zack Moss was cut, and the 49ers signed wide receiver Robbie Chosen. Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II is day-to-day with a shoulder injury, while Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield is recovering from a hand contusion.
Roster Moves and Depth Chart Changes
Teams across the league are making final adjustments to their rosters as the regular season approaches. The Bengals are expected to sign tight end Noah Fant, and the Seahawks are dealing with an injury to their left tackle, who recently underwent surgery. The Ravens signed defensive end Brent Urban, and the Dolphins and Browns lost cornerbacks for the entire 2025 season due to injuries.
The Bears announced that rookie quarterback Caleb Williams will sit out the preseason opener against the Miami Dolphins, while Saints rookie Spencer Rattler is set to start against the Los Angeles Chargers. Jaguars rookie Travis Hunter is expected to play both wide receiver and cornerback in his preseason debut.
Looking Ahead: What to Watch for in the Coming Weeks
As the preseason continues, fans should watch for more rookie debuts, key injury recoveries, and how new head coaches shape their teams. The official 2025 NFL schedule has been released, with each division’s games now set. Teams are focused on building momentum and finalizing depth charts before the regular season begins.
The next week will bring more updates on player health, roster moves, and preseason performances. With so many new faces in coaching and on the field, the 2025 NFL season promises to be one of the most unpredictable and exciting in recent memory. Fans can expect more surprises as teams fight for a strong start and hope to avoid early setbacks.