The 2024-2025 NFL season is about to ramp up and teams will be reporting to training camp in the coming weeks. But before we see all 32 teams get back on the gridiron. Check out my last article where I previewed the NFC South (NFL Division Preview: NFC South). The next preview will be on the NFC South. The teams in the NFC West consist of the Los Angeles Rams, Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, and the Seattle Seahawks.
The Arizona Cardinals have faced significant challenges this season, but with Kyler Murray returning as the starting quarterback from the outset after healing from a torn ACL, there is hope. The sixth-year quarterback will be supported by a strong offensive line, with new additions like Marvin Harrison Jr. at wide receiver and Trey Benson in the backfield expected to bolster the offense. Arizona has also made financial investments to enhance their defense, bringing in first-round rookie Darius Robinson along with veterans Bilal Nichols and Justin Jones. However, they might have difficulty maintaining a steady pass rush on the edges. This is especially crucial after a tough season last year for the Cardinals. While making it to the playoffs will be tough, the team’s chances will improve if Murray grasps the offensive scheme and the defensive line shows improvement against the run.
This offseason, the Seattle Seahawks have made significant changes to their coaching staff. Pete Carroll, who has been the team’s leader since 2009, has moved to a front office position, allowing Mike Macdonald to step in as head coach. Macdonald, who previously coached the Baltimore Ravens’ defense, led them to be among the top three scoring defenses in both 2022 and 2023. In his new role, Macdonald inherits a promising roster that includes rookie first-round pick Byron Murphy II, Leonard Williams, and 2023 first-round selection Devon Witherspoon. His defensive expertise is expected to revitalize the unit, potentially helping them secure a wild card playoff spot. On the offensive front, first-time offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb must work to maximize quarterback Geno Smith’s performance. Although Smith earned his second Pro Bowl selection last season, his statistics showed a drop in touchdowns and passing yards per game compared to his impressive 2022 season. In addition, new defensive coordinator Aden Durde joins the team. With such extensive changes in a division known for producing Super Bowl contenders, the Seahawks are facing a tough challenge. The impact of these adjustments is uncertain, but one thing is clear: Seattle’s upcoming season promises to be unpredictable.
The Los Angeles Rams surprised many fans and analysts by securing a playoff spot with a record of 10-7. Their performance could have been even more competitive in the division title race if not for injuries sustained earlier in the season, particularly given their dynamic play in the latter half of the year. A key factor in their offensive success was the emergence of Puka Nacua, who not only alleviated pressure on star receiver Cooper Kupp but also effectively exploited defenses, thereby opening up running opportunities. In addition to Kupp, Demarcus Robinson served as a valuable third option in the receiving corps. Kyren Williams reclaims the role of starting running back after a standout sophomore season, and the signing of rookie Blake Corum from Michigan adds further depth and dynamism to their rushing attack. Nevertheless, the team’s prospects heavily depend on the health of quarterback Matthew Stafford, whose ability to remain injury-free will be crucial for their championship aspirations, rendering the Rams a somewhat risky choice for sustained success throughout the season. The most noteworthy transformation has occurred on the defensive side of the ball, particularly with the retirement of future Hall of Famer Aaron Donald, which has created a significant gap in their lineup. Despite this challenge, the Rams have effectively utilized their limited draft capital, acquiring promising rookies like defensive tackle Kobie Turner and linebacker Byron Young, who can help bolster their defense moving forward.
After falling short of winning the Super Bowl two years in a row, this may well be year for them to pull it off as per the bookies. The 49ers are the slight favorite to win the Super Bowl entering into this season, and for good reason: they have one of the strongest lineups on both sides of the field. After an offseason of speculated trade demands from Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel, the 49ers have managed to keep both receivers as well as the rest of their deadly weapons, including reigning Offensive Player of the Year Christian McCaffrey. Brock Purdy should continue to perform above expectations as a high-level quarterback. Despite losing Arik Armstead in free agency, San Francisco’s defense remains loaded. The 49ers signed edge rusher Leonard Floyd, linebacker De’Vondre Campbell, and defensive tackle Maliek Collins to help them retain their top-three scoring defense from the previous season. Rookie fourth-round safety Malik Mustapha might get early action as Talanoa Hufanga recovers from a ruptured ACL.
Expect the Niners to win their third consecutive division championship with the Lombardi Trophy within their grasp.
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