The NFL preseason always brings questions, speculation, and the first glimpses of what teams might look like once the real games begin. While the games don’t count in the standings, they help fans and analysts identify shifts in team chemistry, offensive schemes, and rookie potential. More importantly, the patterns emerging in these matchups often hint at how squads are preparing to compete when the stakes rise.

It’s common for sportsbooks and sharp bettors to keep an eye on preseason play. Not every team shows its full deck, but there’s still value in tracking performance, tempo, and depth. Those insights often come into focus when looking at NFL standings in August. Watching how coaching staffs rotate players and how efficiently backup units perform can offer a surprising edge for both fantasy players and spread bettors.

With that said, the offseason has teams restructuring their rosters. Here are some team previews going into the 2025 preseason matchups: 

1. Atlanta Falcons

Atlanta grabbed attention in free agency and the draft with Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr., aiming to boost a pass rush that ranked low in the 2024 season. They lost key veteran roles but remain invested in youth additions. PFF rated their offseason a “C+,” noting limited splash but strategic positioning. Their evolving front is one to watch heading into training camp. A jump in the NFL standings could be within reach if the defense improves quickly.

2. Houston Texans

Houston landed a “D” grade from PFF for their offseason due to a disappointing pass-rusher market and shaky offensive line plans. Still, they improved wide receiver depth and reorganized their secondary. The team’s offseason haul reflects long-term bets rather than immediate fixes. With C.J. Stroud entering Year 2, preseason reviews will focus on building protection, evaluating new talent, and measuring the viability of their retooled defense.

3. Detroit Lions

Detroit looks to build on its 15‑2 record from the 2024 regular season, despite losing its coordinators. They re-signed Derrick Barnes and Marcus Davenport on defense while adding CB D.J. Reed and DL Roy Lopez. The return of Aidan Hutchinson from leg surgery sparks optimism in the front seven. With Jim Irsay’s Pro Football Focus (PFF) rankings placing Detroit among the league’s most complete rosters, their offseason moves suggest strong defensive depth and strategic continuity.

4. New York Jets

The Jets made significant changes by hiring Aaron Glenn as defensive coordinator and bringing in Justin Fields to lead a run-heavy offense. They invested heavily in secondary upgrades after a weak 2024 pass-defense showing. Their offseason was graded “B” by PFF, citing improved schematic direction and reinforcement at cornerback. With defensive depth now visible and fresh QB talent, the Jets could become more competitive in the AFC East. 

5. Green Bay Packers

The Packers endured a mixed offseason ranked “C‑” by PFF, with concerns over overpaid signings in the secondary and concerns around rookie fit. They used free agency and the draft to shore up their offensive and defensive lines but didn’t make many impact moves. Despite their lackluster offseason, they did build for the future. Preseason previews will likely evaluate new signings, line continuity, and the development of their rookie crop. 

Understanding Preseason Standings 

This list is based on offseason activity in 2025 and insights from Current NFL Analysis on FanDuel and other sportsbooks. There are currently no official standings for the 2025 NFL preseason, because preseason games are considered exhibition matchups and do not count toward any division, conference, or league standings. Still, these offseason indicators highlight five teams that could gain momentum and draw early attention once preseason snaps begin.

What the Early Tape Is Telling Us

While the preseason doesn’t crown champions, it does lay the groundwork for breakout seasons, roster surprises, and early betting trends. The five teams listed above have separated themselves with either depth, execution, or both. These aren’t definitive predictors of regular-season outcomes, but they’re worth watching closely. As analysts continue to break down tape and adjust lines, these teams may offer early value where others are still catching up.