The Cincinnati Bengals are determined to break free from their reputation as a formidable team that consistently misses the playoffs despite having elite talent, particularly quarterback Joe Burrow. After a couple of seasons filled with unmet expectations, the Bengals are poised for a return to the postseason in 2025. The team has retained key offensive players, including Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, who signed lucrative contract extensions. With Burrow's impressive performance in the second half of the 2024 season, leading the league in passing yards, the Bengals are set to capitalize on their dynamic offense.

Chase's incredible 2024 season, where he led the NFL in receptions, yards, and touchdowns, indicates that he can thrive independently. Higgins, who was a top target in red-zone situations, is crucial for the Bengals. The Bengals’ new running back, Chase Brown, comes off a breakout season, adding depth to the offense. However, the Bengals face the challenge of a strong AFC North division. The pressure is on to ensure all players remain healthy and avoid slow starts, as their playoff aspirations hinge on maintaining momentum throughout the season.

The San Francisco 49ers navigated a challenging offseason with significant moves, focusing on securing their star players amidst losses to free agency. Chief among these is tight end George Kittle, who received a lucrative contract extension, solidifying his position as a vital part of the team's future. Kittle's new deal underscores his importance to the 49ers' offensive strategy, especially as they look to build around quarterback Brock Purdy.

In addition to Kittle, the 49ers have worked to retain key pieces of their roster, including the likes of linebacker Fred Warner and wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, who are seen as essential for maintaining competitiveness in a tough NFC West. The front office’s commitment to investing in talent reflects a long-term vision, ensuring that they remain a formidable force in the league as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Jared Casey, a former standout at Kansas, has realized a dream by joining the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent. During the rookie minicamp, Casey expressed gratitude for the opportunity to wear the Chiefs jersey and helmet, reflecting on his background of playing at Arrowhead Stadium. He understands the competitive nature of the roster battles ahead, especially aiming for a position as a tight end and fullback. His previous experience includes a solid senior season, where he achieved career-high statistics, earning accolades that underscore his potential.

In his early 2026 NFL mock draft, Todd McShay highlights two promising tight ends from Cincinnati as likely first-round picks. Max Klare, an Ohio State tight end and St. Xavier alum, is projected to be selected by the Los Angeles Chargers at No. 22. Meanwhile, Joe Royer, the University of Cincinnati tight end and Elder alum, is anticipated to be picked by the Philadelphia Eagles at No. 32.

Klare's impressive growth includes a breakout season where he caught 51 passes for 685 yards and four touchdowns. After transferring from Purdue, he has developed into a key offensive weapon. Royer also had a significant breakthrough, setting a record for receptions at UC while earning First Team All-Big 12 honors. Both players are eager to make an impact in their upcoming seasons, aiming for a successful draft day in Pittsburgh.

The Los Angeles Rams 2025 NFL Draft class showcases a blend of talent, with many players demonstrating stellar collegiate careers despite lower high school recruit ratings. The analysis highlights that most of these six drafted rookies were considered three-star recruits or lower, with only Terrance Ferguson standing out as a four-star talent. The Rams have a history of unearthing gems from less-heralded backgrounds, proving that rankings are not definitive indicators of future success.

Key players include the versatile tight end Terrance Ferguson, who nabbed four stars from all major recruiting services, and others like Josaiah Stewart, Jarquez Hunter, and Ty Hamilton, all rated three stars. This draft class may defy expectations just as past Rams' picks like J.J. Watt have done, emphasizing the potential of hard work and development over initial rankings.