Notre Dame opens 2025 with CFP-grade depth and a confident vibe under Marcus Freeman, but a QB battle stands as the key hinge. Jeremiyah Love is slotted as the home‑run back and could push toward 1,400 rushing yards if carries are balanced in a big, veteran‑backed run game. Jaden Greathouse emerges as a true No. 1 target, with Malachi Fields adding veteran size and reliability to pair with a deeper receiving corps. The front seven is described as “mean, nasty and stacked,” while questions at quarterback—CJ Carr’s grip on the job and Kenny Minchey’s factor—will shape the offense. If the signal‑callers settle quickly and the defense stays disruptive, a return to CFP contention appears plausible, aided by a manageable schedule that should keep ND favored in most games.

The Irish project a robust trench game, a dangerous ground attack, and a defense that still has playmakers after some losses, with a path to continued top‑20 status into the autumn. Aug. 31 against Miami, Sept. 13 vs. Texas A&M, and late‑season tests aboard a schedule that rewards consistency could determine whether Freeman’s rebuild becomes a sustained championship run, or if the QB ambiguity introduces early volatility in fantasy lineups.

The Atlanta Falcons are poised for an exciting preseason opener against the Detroit Lions as they unveil their highly touted rookie class. Head coach Raheem Morris confirmed that first-round draft picks Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr., along with Xavier Watts, Billy Bowman Jr., and Jack Nelson, will take the field. This strategy marks a significant shift from the previous year, where rookie participation was minimal in the preseason.

Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how these new talents adapt to the competitive environment, especially given the high expectations surrounding Walker and Pearce. Both are seen as crucial for the Falcons' rebuild and have showcased promising skills during training camp. The preseason will provide valuable insights into their readiness for the regular season and the depth of the team's overall roster.

The Atlanta Falcons are bracing for an intense competition in their secondary during the 2025 training camp, particularly for the Nickel cornerback position. Dee Alford, who started 11 games last season, struggled with consistency, leading the Falcons to draft Xavier Watts and Billy Bowman Jr. this offseason. While Watts is primarily a safety, Bowman Jr. is expected to challenge Alford for the starting spot, with a focus on his aggressive play style.

Despite showing potential, Alford's performance in 2023 did not translate into the expected advancement in 2024, placing increased pressure on him as well as on the newcomers. With Atlanta’s newfound depth, the competition promises to enhance the defensive backfield, vital for competing in the NFC South.

As the Atlanta Falcons gear up for the 2025 NFL season, they've made significant strides to reinforce their secondary, which struggled in 2024. Key additions include safety Jordan Fuller and the promising rookie Xavier Watts, a third-round selection from Notre Dame touted as a potential steal of the draft. Fuller is expected to start alongside veteran Jessie Bates III, who is returning for his third season with the Falcons. There's competition over the second safety spot after the team opted not to re-sign Justin Simmons. The depth chart features Kevin King, DeMarcco Hellams, and Josh Thompson, but Watts could emerge as a surprise contender.

The Falcons are focused on improving on last year's defensive shortcomings, having also drafted two edge rushers in the first round. With the new defensive scheme under head coach Raheem Morris, fans anticipate a more dynamic and cohesive unit, especially with players like Bates, Fuller, and Watts bringing different skill sets to the field.