NFC West Divisional Preview and Predictions

The NFC West was one of the league’s biggest disappointments in 2024. None of its teams looked like real contenders when the playoffs arrived. San Francisco is determined to change that after enduring a season filled with injuries, but familiar issues are already surfacing. That opens the door for the Rams to make another push, although their defense will need reinforcements if they want to go far. The Cardinals and Seahawks remain caught between rebuilding and contending, both trying to figure out what comes next.

San Francisco 49ers

Few franchises endured a tougher 2024 than the 49ers, whose Super Bowl hangover collided with a brutal injury list. This season, Brock Purdy enters with a massive new contract worth $265 million, putting him firmly among the highest paid quarterbacks in the league. The downside is predictable: once the quarterback gets paid, the rest of the roster inevitably tightens.

The departures of key defensive players and another wave of receiver injuries add to the concerns, but San Francisco still boasts top-level talent. If the roster stays healthy, this team can reclaim its place among NFC favorites.

Is Ricky Pearsall Ready for WR1 Duties?

With Brandon Aiyuk sidelined until at least October and Jauan Jennings still working back into form, Ricky Pearsall will be asked to step into a lead role. Pearsall enters his second season after a tumultuous rookie year that included recovering from being shot in an attempted robbery. He has the route running and reliable hands to be a short-game weapon, but the 49ers need him to show he can stretch defenses and handle top coverage.

Which New Defender Will Step Up?

Losing Talanoa Hufanga and Dre Greenlaw leaves big holes in the defense. Someone will need to step up alongside stars like Fred Warner, Nick Bosa, and Deommodore Lenoir. The names to watch are linebacker Dee Winters, entering his third season, and second-year corner Renardo Green. Both have a chance to seize major roles and become difference-makers.

The Verdict

San Francisco is not without questions, but with RB Christian McCaffrey’s return from injury, Brock Purdy’s big contract keeping him under center, and the overall depth of the roster keep the 49ers as the team to beat.

2025 Projected Record: 10–7 (O/U: 10.5)
Division Projection: 1st

Los Angeles Rams

The Rams are staring at the final season of the Matthew Stafford era. Cooper Kupp is gone, Davante Adams is in, and the defense is searching for an identity beyond Jared Verse. Sean McVay and Stafford will push hard for another playoff run, but the sense is this version of the Rams will not last beyond 2025.

What Comes After Stafford?

The franchise must face the looming question of life after its Super Bowl–winning quarterback. If the Rams remain competitive, they may bridge the gap with short-term veteran signings, similar to how the Steelers managed their transition. If the season falters, Stetson Bennett could see action so the staff can evaluate what they have.

Does Davante Adams Still Have It?

Two years ago Adams was considered the best receiver in football. His messy stint with the Jets changed that perception, but now he has the chance to rebound. Playing for McVay and catching passes from Stafford should provide stability, while Puka Nacua’s emergence will prevent defenses from keying entirely on Adams. This could be the season he reminds the league of his talent.

The Verdict

The Rams are well coached and experienced, but their ceiling is limited compared with their Super Bowl days. Expect them to push for a Wild Card berth, but not much more.

2025 Projected Record: 9–8 (O/U: 9.5)
Division Projection: 2nd

Arizona Cardinals

Kyler Murray remains the face of the franchise, but questions about his leadership linger. James Conner continues to churn out yards and Marvin Harrison Jr. provides star potential, yet the offense still struggles to intimidate opponents. Defensively, Arizona leans heavily on veterans trying to extend their careers, with Calais Campbell somehow still producing at a high level.

Can Marvin Harrison Jr. Break Through?

The former first-round pick had an underwhelming rookie year, and the Cardinals need him to take a major step. He has the tools, with crisp route running and strong hands, but Murray must help him find consistency if Arizona wants to rise above mediocrity.

Should Arizona Go Run Heavy?

The passing game has sputtered, while Conner continues to thrive as a power runner. A more option-oriented, ground-focused attack could better suit Murray’s improvisational style while leaning on Conner’s ability to pound defenses inside. The question is whether the Cardinals are willing to reshape their approach.

The Verdict

Arizona remains stuck in the middle tier of the league, not strong enough to contend and not committed enough to rebuilding. Expect another year of mediocrity.

2025 Projected Record: 8–9 (O/U: 8.5)
Division Projection: 3rd

Seattle Seahawks

Seattle turns to Sam Darnold after his surprising resurgence in Minnesota. The shift from Geno Smith to Darnold is essentially a lateral move, but the Seahawks believe their defensive core is strong enough to keep them in contention if the quarterback can provide stability.

Can Cooper Kupp Replace Tyler Lockett?

Replacing a longtime Seahawk is no small task, but that is what Cooper Kupp is asked to do. At this stage of his career, he no longer stretches defenses vertically, but his intelligence and short-route reliability make him a valuable chain mover. His presence provides Darnold with a steady target in key moments.

How Long Is Darnold’s Leash?

Darnold’s career has been defined by inconsistency, with last season as the exception. Mike Macdonald may not hesitate to turn to Drew Lock if things start poorly. Lock has shown flashes as a backup and could create pressure if the offense stalls. The fan base will not be patient if the team slips into a losing record early.

The Verdict

Seattle could outperform expectations if everything clicks, but the margin for error is thin. Darnold must prove last season was no fluke or risk losing his job quickly.

2025 Projected Record: 7–10 (O/U: 8.5)
Division Projection: 4th

Final Thoughts

The NFC West lacks a true powerhouse. San Francisco remains the safest pick if health cooperates, while the Rams are pushing for one more playoff run before inevitable change. Arizona sits in the middle, while Seattle faces uncertainty at quarterback. This will be a competitive division, but not necessarily a dominant one.

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