The NFC South has undergone a quiet transformation over the past couple of years. What was once a stale division marred by mediocrity and inconsistency is now brimming with young talent and exciting potential everywhere except New Orleans.
2025 NFC South Predictions
| Rank | TK | Mike Dogg | Streetz | Dylan | Bakley |
| 1 | Buccaneers | Buccaneers | Falcons | Buccaneers | Buccaneers |
| 2 | Falcons | Falcons | Buccaneers | Falcons | Falcons |
| 3 | Panthers | Panthers | Panthers | Panthers | Panthers |
| 4 | Saints | Saints | Saints | Saints | Saints |
Let’s break it down team by team:
New Orleans Saints: No Quarterback, No Chance
Let’s be blunt: the Saints have no business being in the NFC South title conversation. With no quality starting quarterback to rely on, New Orleans is adrift offensively. The Derek Carr experiment continues to underwhelm, and the lack of a clear succession plan or dynamic young option at the position leaves this team stuck in neutral.
There’s still some defensive talent and veterans who can flash, but without a real quarterback, there’s no ceiling here. This is a franchise clinging to the past while the rest of the division evolves.
Carolina Panthers: Bryce Young’s Time to Shine
Year three is often the breakout year for NFL quarterbacks, and Bryce Young is poised to make that leap. After a rocky start to his pro career, Carolina has done more to build around him, and the chemistry is beginning to show. The poise and accuracy that made him a No. 1 overall pick are starting to resurface—and he’s got some new toys to work with.
Rookie wideout Tetairoa “Tet” McMillan could end up being the steal of the draft. With elite size, ball skills, and a knack for creating separation, McMillan is already drawing buzz out of camp as a future WR1. If he clicks early, Carolina’s offense could surprise a lot of people this season.
Atlanta Falcons: Penix Era Begins
The Falcons made waves by selecting Michael Penix Jr. early in the draft, and while the move raised some eyebrows, it might pay off sooner than expected. The former Washington standout has a cannon arm, a fearless mentality, and is landing in a situation with real weapons around him.
Drake London is already a stud—he’s physical, explosive, and a matchup nightmare when featured properly. The big question is Kyle Pitts. After flashing so much promise as a rookie, he’s yet to live up to his massive potential. If he can stay healthy and re-establish himself as a top-tier tight end, the Falcons could boast one of the most dynamic young offenses in the league.
Atlanta’s defense is improving, the offensive line is solid, and Penix has the tools to make a real splash. Don’t sleep on the Falcons making a push for the division.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Baker’s Team, Evans’ Legacy
The Buccaneers are in a fascinating spot. Baker Mayfield, once considered a journeyman, has completely rejuvenated his career in Tampa. He’s playing with confidence, making smart decisions, and giving this team an identity.
Helping that cause? The ageless Mike Evans, who continues to dominate year after year. A future Hall of Famer, Evans is one of the most consistently elite receivers in NFL history, and he shows no signs of slowing down.
With a veteran core, a resurgent QB, and a coach who has this team buying in, the Bucs may be the most balanced team in the division. They’re gritty, experienced, and still have plenty of playmakers on both sides of the ball.
The NFC South is shifting, and the teams investing in youth and offensive upside are pulling ahead. For the Saints, the future looks as uncertain as their QB room. For the rest, the future might already be here.
