
The biggest mistake when it comes to making final record predictions is assuming everything is going to stay the same in the NFL.
Last year, the Washington Commanders, Denver Broncos and Minnesota Vikings were the surprise teams of the NFL. But it wouldn’t be a shocker if all three miss the playoffs this season. That may sound ludicrous—just like my bold prediction of the Carolina Panthers winning the NFC South in 2025—but there are sound reasons to believe each could take a step back.