With the 2024-2025 NFL season just over 100 days away, here are three must-watch storylines to keep an eye on as the season kicks off.
The Kansas City Chiefs have their sights set on becoming the first team to win three consecutive Super Bowls since the beginning of the Super Bowl era. Led by head coach Andy Reid and star quarterback Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs have established themselves as a dynasty team after their back-to-back championship victories. The pursuit of a three-peat is a significant milestone that no team has achieved in the modern NFL.
Last season's hopes for the New York Jets and Aaron Rodgers were abruptly shattered when Rodgers ruptured his Achilles in his debut with the team. Now fully recovered, the Jets are once again considered Super Bowl contenders. With a rejuvenated Rodgers at the helm and a strengthened offensive line, they aim to make a deep playoff run this season.
The Chicago Bears selected former USC quarterback Caleb Williams with the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Williams has impressed head coach Matt Eberflus with his leadership and poise. The Bears have assembled a talented offense around Williams, including veteran receivers D.J. Moore and Keenan Allen. As Williams enters his rookie season, the spotlight will be on him to lead the Bears out of their long-standing struggles.
Beyond these three major storylines, there are several other intriguing narratives to watch out for in the upcoming NFL season:
* **Tom Brady's retirement:** After 23 seasons, Tom Brady announced his retirement from the NFL. His absence will undoubtedly leave a void in the league.
* **The return of Tua Tagovailoa:** The Miami Dolphins quarterback suffered a concussion in Week 2 of the 2023 season and missed the remainder of the year. His health and performance will be closely monitored in 2024.
* **The emergence of young stars:** With each passing year, a new crop of talented players enters the NFL. Keep an eye out for rising stars such as Jalen Carter, Devon Witherspoon, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
* **The impact of rule changes:** The NFL has implemented several rule changes for the 2024 season, including a ban on roughing the passer and a new concussion protocol. These changes will undoubtedly affect the way the game is played.
* **The NFL's international footprint:** The NFL continues to expand its global presence. In 2024, there will be four regular-season games played outside the United States, including games in London, Mexico City, Munich, and Berlin.
The 2024-2025 NFL season promises to be filled with excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments. With so many intriguing storylines unfolding, it promises to be one of the most captivating seasons in recent memory.
