
NFL Power Rankings 2025: Bears, Jets, and Raiders Named Most Improved Teams
NFL Power Rankings 2025: Bears, Jets, and Raiders Named Most Improved Teams
By Jason Bolton June 18, 2025 09:53
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, analysts and fans alike are buzzing about the teams poised for significant improvement. Among the most talked-about are the Chicago Bears, New York Jets, and Las Vegas Raiders, all of whom have made impactful offseason moves and draft selections that suggest a leap forward in competitiveness. These teams have transformed key areas of their rosters, fueling optimism that they could shake up their respective divisions.
Chicago Bears: A New Offensive Identity
The Chicago Bears have been one of the most aggressive teams in reshaping their offense this offseason. After struggling to find consistency, the Bears hired offensive-minded head coach Ben Johnson, signaling a commitment to revitalizing their attack. The biggest beneficiary is second-year quarterback Caleb Williams, who now has a much-improved supporting cast.
ESPN analyst Dan Graziano highlighted the Bears’ offseason overhaul: “If the protection holds up, Williams is going to have a ton of places he can go with the ball on any particular play, and with Johnson drawing the plays up, this could be as exciting an offense as there is in the league.” The Bears bolstered their offensive line by signing veterans Joe Thuney, Jonah Jackson, and Drew Dalman, while early-round draft picks like tight end Colston Loveland and wide receiver Luther Burden III add dynamic weapons in the passing game.
This comprehensive offensive upgrade has led many to speculate that Williams could be a dark horse MVP candidate in 2025. While the Bears face stiff competition in the NFC North from the Lions, Vikings, and Packers, their revamped offense could be the catalyst for a playoff push, ending a playoff drought that has frustrated fans for years.
New York Jets: Building Around a Star Quarterback
The New York Jets have quietly positioned themselves as one of the most improved teams in the league. With quarterback Aaron Rodgers entering his second year with the team, the Jets have focused on strengthening their offensive line and skill positions to maximize his effectiveness.
General Manager Joe Douglas made key additions in free agency and the draft, addressing depth issues that plagued the Jets in 2024. According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, “The Jets’ front office has done a remarkable job of surrounding Rodgers with talent, especially on the offensive line and wide receiver corps.” This improved protection and receiving talent should translate into a more efficient offense and better scoring opportunities.
Defensively, the Jets have added promising young players to bolster their secondary and pass rush, areas that were inconsistent last season. With these upgrades, the Jets are expected to compete more fiercely in the AFC East, challenging the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins for playoff positioning.
Las Vegas Raiders: A Balanced Approach to Improvement
The Raiders have also emerged as a team on the rise, thanks to a balanced approach in free agency and the draft. Head coach Josh McDaniels has emphasized building a strong offensive line and improving the defense, areas that were weaknesses in 2024.
Las Vegas invested heavily in the trenches, signing key veterans and drafting versatile linemen to protect quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and improve the running game. On defense, the Raiders added pass rushers and defensive backs to shore up a unit that struggled to contain opposing offenses last year.
Analysts like NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah have noted, “The Raiders’ offseason moves show a clear intent to become more competitive in a tough AFC West. Their ability to protect Garoppolo and disrupt opposing quarterbacks will be critical to their success.”
The Chicago Bears, New York Jets, and Las Vegas Raiders stand out as the most improved teams heading into the 2025 NFL season. Each has addressed critical roster needs through smart acquisitions and draft picks, setting the stage for potential breakout campaigns.
As Bears quarterback Caleb Williams gains confidence behind a revamped offensive line, the Jets look to capitalize on Aaron Rodgers’ leadership with enhanced offensive weapons, and the Raiders aim to balance offensive protection with defensive aggression. These improvements have not gone unnoticed, with experts and fans alike expecting these teams to be major players in their divisions.
With the NFL’s competitive landscape constantly shifting, the 2025 season promises exciting storylines as these teams seek to translate offseason promise into on-field success.