Top 10 Takeaways from Week 1 of the 2025 NFL Season

The NFL season is finally here, and Week 1 did not disappoint. From jaw-dropping comebacks to legendary debuts, weather delays to international drama, the opening slate gave fans plenty to argue about. Here are the 10 biggest takeaways from the first week of the 2025 season:

1. Bills’ Epic Comeback Sends Shockwaves

Down 40–25 late in the fourth quarter, Buffalo stormed back behind Josh Allen’s three touchdown passes in the final frame to stun Baltimore 41–40. Matt Prater’s 32-yard game-winner capped one of the most memorable season-opening rallies in NFL history. The Ravens’ collapse raises fundamental questions about John Harbaugh’s defense. The Ravens defense was supposed to be better, and in a division with Joe Burrow and Aaron Rodgers, having defensive issues is not what you want. The Bills and Josh Allen, on the other hand, should run away with the AFC East.

ARE YOU KIDDING? Derrick Henry fumble leads to INSANE comeback | Buffalo Bills Vs Baltimore Ravens

2. Rodgers Revives Pittsburgh in His Debut

Aaron Rodgers looked like vintage Rodgers, tossing four touchdowns and no interceptions in his Steelers debut. At 41, he tied Tom Brady’s all-time mark of 28 career games with 4+ TDs and zero picks. Suddenly, Pittsburgh feels like a true AFC contender again. Rodgers is no spring chicken, and it’s been a few years since he has consistently looked like he did on Sunday. But, if he can continue to play like that week in and week out, the Steelers could be Super Bowl contenders.

Aaron Rodgers best plays in 4-TD game vs. former team | Week 1

3. Eagles Weather the Storm to Beat Dallas

In a lightning-delayed opener, the Eagles outlasted the Cowboys 24–20 in a gritty NFC East clash. Jalen Hurts was sharp, but it was Philadelphia’s defense—clamping down in the fourth quarter—that made the difference. For Dallas, it’s déjà vu: a big game against the Eagles that slipped away late. Dallas looked better than expected and the eagles offensive struggles in the second half raise many questions about the defending Super Bowl Champions. If the Eagles can win this Sunday in Kansas City, then a repeat of last year will look plausible.

Cowboys vs Eagles | Week 1 Highlights

4. Commanders Look Physical, but Penalties Loom Large

Washington’s revamped roster, bolstered by Deebo Samuel, smothered the Giants 21–6. The front four controlled the line of scrimmage, but 12 penalties nearly spoiled the party. If Dan Quinn can clean up the mistakes, the Commanders might be as dangerous than expected. Plus, it’s only week one so you have to expect that the Commandeers will get this cleaned up. As for the Giants, Brian Daboll could be looking for a job soon if he doesn’t get this team heading in the right direction.

1-0! Washington Commanders vs. New York Giants Highlights | 2025 NFL Regular Season Week 1

5. Lions Start Flat Under New Leadership

Expectations were high for two new coordinators, but the Lions came out sluggish in a 27–13 loss to Green Bay. Jared Goff struggled, the offensive line looked shaky, and suddenly, Detroit’s hype train feels like it’s already derailing. The Packers though look like a serious contender with the addition of Micah Parsons. The Packers after one week look like the best team in the NFC, but there is a lot of football to be played.

Welcome to Green Bay! Micah Parsons runs down Goff for ELECTRIC sack

6. Rookie Egbuka Shines for Buccaneers

Tampa Bay celebrated its 50th season opener with a thrilling 23–20 victory over Atlanta thanks to rookie WR Emeka Egbuka. The first-rounder hauled in two touchdowns, including the game-winner, cementing himself as an instant fan favorite. The Bucs may have found their offensive cornerstone. This was a huge win for Tampa Bay on the road to start the season and it was a bad loss for the Falcons at home. These look to be the two best teams in the division.

Bucs vs. Falcons Full Game Highlights | Tampa Bay Wins 23-20

7. Quarterback Overreactions Are in Full Swing

Week 1 produced dramatic QB headlines: Justin Fields energized the Jets with his best NFL start, while Bo Nix looked overmatched and Russell Wilson struggled badly. Meanwhile, Daniel Jones destroyed a bad Miami team. One week in, and fanbases are already in panic or party mode. If you are the Dolphins, how do you continue on from here with Mike McDaniel as the Head Coach? The Dolphins look headed for the number one pick in next year’s draft.

8. Chiefs Lose Opener in Brazil — and the Headlines

Kansas City’s 27–21 loss to the Chargers in São Paulo was overshadowed by Travis Kelce getting slapped by  DL Teair Tart in a bizarre sideline scuffle. The Chiefs’ offense looked out of sync, sparking questions about whether this will be a slower start than usual for the reigning dynasty. I think the reigning dynasty has slowly been dying since last season and they face a must win against the eagles on Sunday. The AFC West is a strong division and an 0-2 start could kill this dynasty.

9. Fantasy Football Shake-Ups Begin

Josh Allen’s heroics fueled fantasy managers, while unexpected breakouts like Emeka Egbuka and a few surprise running backs stole the spotlight. On the flip side, top picks like Russell Wilson and Miami’s offense burned owners out of the gate. Week 1 waiver-wire wars are officially on.

10. Early Power Rankings Get Shaken Up

By Tuesday morning, Buffalo, Philadelphia, and Green Bay all rose to the top tier of power rankings. The Bills’ comeback, Eagles’ grit, and Packers’ surprising NFC North statement have already shifted early-season narratives. For teams like Baltimore and Detroit, the pressure mounts in Week 2.

Final Word

If Week 1 taught us anything, it’s that no storyline is too big or too early in the NFL. The Bills may have authored the comeback of the year on opening weekend, Aaron Rodgers proved he still has magic left, and young stars like Emeka Egbuka showed the league’s future is in good hands. Strap in—2025 is shaping up to be wild.