Top five NFL teams that might surprise everyone this season
Training camp videos of deep passes to open practice have flooded social media this week. These clips spark hope that big plays are on the way when the NFL season starts in early September.
We're looking at five teams that could make serious progress in their big‑play game in 2025. Some had deep threats last year, others changed coaches or added new weapons. All five have a real shot to be more explosive this year. Let's dive into why these teams stand out and who to watch when camp opens this July.
Kansas City Chiefs
: Patrick Mahomes and Xavier Worthy
On July 17, at the Kansas City Chiefs' offseason workouts in Kansas City, quarterback Patrick Mahomes declared the team will 'test the defenses down the field' after a dip in their deep‑ball game.
The Kansas City Chiefs added fast rookies like Xavier Worthy, the Combine's fastest 40‑yard sprinter, and veteran Jaylon Moore at left tackle to give Mahomes more protection. With these moves, Kansas City Chiefs aims to bounce back from a 2024 season that lacked long throws and explosive plays.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
: Baker Mayfield, Chris Godwin, Emeka Egbuka
In June, quarterback Baker Mayfield spoke in Tampa about boosting explosive plays downfield this season. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers ranked second in yards after catch but 29th in average air yards.
Now with Chris Godwin returning from injury and rookie Emeka Egbuka joining the roster, Tampa Bay Buccaneers hope to stretch defenses more. If Baker Mayfield can launch deeper throws protected by Tristan Wirfs, even early-season, the Bucs might show off a more dynamic offense.
Atlanta Falcons
: Michael Penix Jr., Drake London, Darnell Mooney
During May OTAs in Atlanta, quarterback coach T.J. Yates praised rookie Michael Penix Jr. for his aggressive arm and field vision. Penix Jr.
led the team with a 10.2 average air yards per attempt in the final three 2024 games. With deep threats like Drake London and Darnell Mooney, plus more play-action work, Atlanta Falcons could lean on explosive passes more often this year.
Chicago Bears: Caleb Williams, Coach Ben Johnson
In July, at Chicago Bears mini‑camp in Chicago, new coach Ben Johnson said, 'I like big plays' and rejected sneak plays like the Tush Push. With rookie QB Caleb Williams, who showed creativity in college, plus upgraded receivers and revamped line, the Chicago Bears aim to transform from last‑place offense into a big‑play threat.
Las Vegas Raiders: Geno Smith, Chip Kelly, Pete Carroll
When training camp opens in late July in Nevada, the Las Vegas Raiders will debut new coach Pete Carroll alongside coordinator Chip Kelly and veteran QB Geno Smith, known for deep passing. After a stagnant offense in 2024, Las Vegas hopes Geno Smith's big arm and Carroll's leadership will bring more vertical plays in 2025.
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