By Sunday 
Strategic Changes to Shape the NFC’s Future
As the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles gear up for Super Bowl LIX, the rest of the league is already shifting focus to the offseason. With free agency looming and the 2025 NFL Draft approaching, each NFC team must identify its top priority to strengthen its roster for the upcoming season.
Here’s a breakdown of one key move every NFC franchise should make.
Arizona Cardinals – Reinforce the Defensive Line
Arizona’s defensive front has been a problem for years, and 2025 is no different. With several players, including Dennis Gardeck and Roy Lopez, heading into free agency, the Cardinals must prioritize bolstering their pass rush. Zaven Collins led the team with 31 QB pressures last season, ranking just 57th among edge rushers—far from ideal.
The addition of first-round pick Darius Robinson offers hope, but Arizona needs more than optimism. Targeting free agent Josh Sweat, who thrived under head coach Jonathan Gannon in Philadelphia, would provide the much-needed pressure off the edge.
Atlanta Falcons – Focus on Defense in the First Round
For four straight years, the Falcons have used their first-round pick on offensive players. That streak must end in 2025. Atlanta’s defense, particularly the pass rush, remains a glaring weakness.
Despite showing signs of life late in the season, the Falcons still ranked 31st in sacks with just 31 total. Whether they stay at No. 15 or move up, adding a top-tier defensive playmaker should be GM Terry Fontenot’s primary objective.
Carolina Panthers – Strengthen the Defense
Yes, giving Bryce Young more weapons is important, but Carolina’s biggest issue last season was its porous defense. The Panthers allowed an NFL-worst 179.8 rushing yards per game, an unacceptable number for any team.
Derrick Brown’s absence hurt, but even his return won’t be enough. The Panthers desperately need reinforcements across the defensive front, particularly in the pass-rushing department. A complete overhaul is necessary if Carolina hopes to turn things around in 2025.
Chicago Bears – Prioritize the Offensive Line
The Bears invested in offensive weapons last offseason. Now, it’s time to protect their franchise quarterback. Chicago used a staggering 27 different offensive line combinations last season—the most in the NFL—making continuity impossible.
Right tackle Darnell Wright is the only sure thing up front. With three key linemen hitting free agency, GM Ryan Poles must revamp the unit through both free agency and the draft. Chicago’s offense, now under Ben Johnson, will only flourish if the protection improves.
Dallas Cowboys – Rebuild the Running Back Room
Dallas’ offense became more stable when Rico Dowdle took over as the primary back, but with Dowdle heading toward free agency, the Cowboys need a new plan. The free-agent market is thin at running back, making it crucial to re-sign Dowdle while also drafting a dynamic complement.
The 2025 draft is loaded with running back talent, and pairing Dowdle with an explosive rookie like Ashton Jeanty would restore the backfield’s balance. While a first-round RB isn’t necessary, regaining the burst lost when Tony Pollard departed should be a priority.
Detroit Lions – Find Aidan Hutchinson a Running Mate
Detroit’s gamble on Marcus Davenport didn’t pay off, and injuries further depleted the pass-rushing unit. The Lions can’t afford to enter another season without reinforcements up front.
Za’Darius Smith, now 32, should be a rotational player rather than an every-down presence. GM Brad Holmes must explore both free agency and trade options—perhaps even calling Cincinnati about Trey Hendrickson. If Detroit wants to take the next step, an aggressive defensive upgrade is necessary.