LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Rams are facing key health concerns as they prepare for the 2025 season, with offensive tackle Alaric Jackson battling blood clots in his lower leg and quarterback Matthew Stafford managing back soreness. Despite these challenges, Jackson is expected to be ready to start Week 1, a development crucial to the Rams’ pursuit of another season with double-digit wins.
Ceiling: 12-5 | floor: 7-10
Biggest X factor: The offensive line’s health and performance.
The Rams’ success hinges on the stability of their offensive line, especially with Alaric Jackson’s recent health issue. Jackson, who is dealing with blood clots in his lower leg, will be ready to start Week 1, and him missing any time would be a huge blow for the Rams’ hopes at another double-digit-win season. Veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford deals with back soreness entering his 17th season, adding another layer of concern. The Rams play their home games at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, a venue that opened in 2020 and has a seating capacity of 70,240.
Ceiling: 12-5 | Floor: 7-10
Biggest X factor: The youth movement
The San Francisco 49ers are relying heavily on a significant influx of young players following the departure of nearly 20 players via free agency,release,or trade. Rather than pursuing established replacements, the 49ers are investing in their 11-player draft class and other young veterans to fill key roles. San Francisco is banking on star-level production from its elite players, but could have as many as seven first- or second-year players starting on defense. The Niners will need at least some of those guys to make a big leap in order to return to contender status. Levi’s stadium in Santa Clara, California, has been the 49ers’ home since 2014, with a capacity of 68,500.
Ceiling: 11-6 | Floor: 6-11
Biggest X factor: the offensive line
The Seattle Seahawks’ offensive line faces significant questions, with rookie left guard Gray Zabel, the team’s 2025 first-round pick, perhaps being the only upgrade to a starting five that struggled in 2024. However,optimism stems from the new offensive scheme implemented by coordinator Klint Kubiak,which is designed to alleviate pressure on the line.The success of right tackle Abraham Lucas, who has demonstrated dominance when healthy, is also critical. Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington, has hosted the Seahawks since 2002 and holds 69,000 spectators. The Seahawks finished the 2024 season with a 9-8 record.
