2025 NFL Schedule Release: What It Means for Fantasy Football

The release of the 2025 NFL schedule marks a pivotal moment for fantasy football enthusiasts. This year's schedule not only sets the stage for the upcoming season but also significantly influences fantasy football strategies. Here's a breakdown of what to expect:

Easiest Fantasy Schedule: Arizona Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals, who faced one of the toughest schedules in 2024, now find themselves with one of the most favorable schedules for the 2025 season. With nine matchups against defenses ranked in the bottom 10, players like Kyler Murray, James Conner, Marvin Harrison Jr., and Trey McBride are expected to shine.

Toughest Fantasy Schedule: Cincinnati Bengals

On the flip side, the Cincinnati Bengals are set to face a grueling schedule, including six games against top-six projected defenses. Despite this, players like Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase have historically performed well under pressure.

Positional Upgrades and Downgrades

Based on the strength of schedule, certain players are poised for upgrades or downgrades:

Upgrades:

• QB: C.J. Stroud, Kyler Murray
• RB: Bijan Robinson, Alvin Kamara
• WR: Puka Nacua, Davante Adams
• TE: Mark Andrews, Mason Taylor

Downgrades:

• QB: Dak Prescott, Russell Wilson
• RB: James Cook, Derrick Henry
• WR: Brian Thomas Jr., Travis Hunter
• TE: Jake Ferguson, Theo Johnson

Playoff Projections

AFC Seeds:

1. Ravens
2. Bills
3. Chiefs
4. Texans
5. Broncos
6. Bengals
7. Patriots

NFC Seeds:

1. Lions
2. Eagles
3. Buccaneers
4. Rams
5. Packers
6. Commanders
7. Vikings

2026 NFL Draft Predictions

Early predictions for the top 5 picks in the 2026 NFL Draft include:

1. Browns
2. Saints
3. Raiders
4. Titans
5. Jets

These teams are expected to focus on rebuilding, particularly at the quarterback position.

Conclusion

The 2025 NFL season promises to be an exciting one, with significant implications for fantasy football and the NFL playoffs. Stay tuned for more updates and detailed analyses as the season approaches.