The exhilarating journey from last place to a division title is a captivating narrative that frequently unfolds in the National Football League, a testament to the league’s parity and the strategic advantages afforded to struggling franchises. This remarkable “worst to first” phenomenon, though challenging, has become a near-annual occurrence, with 25 teams achieving this feat since the 2002 realignment by leveraging favorable schedules and higher draft picks to rebuild and contend.
Among the top contenders poised to defy expectations in the upcoming football season are the San Francisco 49ers, a team that remarkably followed a Super Bowl appearance in 2023 with a disappointing 6-10 last-place finish in 2024. Their downturn was largely attributed to a string of critical injuries to key players, but heading into the 2025 season, the 49ers are strategically positioned with the weakest projected schedule, including three crucial games against fellow last-place teams like Chicago, the New York Giants, and Cleveland.
Under the guidance of one of the game’s premier offensive minds, Kyle Shanahan, the 49ers are heavily favored to reclaim the NFC West division title. Their schedule is further sweetened by eight games against the weaker South divisions, bolstering their path to an NFL turnaround. However, the team’s decision to part ways with several defensive starters in favor of a younger, more cost-effective roster poses a potential vulnerability if their rookie class struggles to immediately contribute, even with the anticipated return of injured defensive stalwarts.
The Chicago Bears also present an intriguing case for a significant team comeback, especially if second-year quarterback Caleb Williams can overcome his rookie struggles, which were perhaps more rooted in holding onto the ball too long than the surrounding environment. Despite playing in a highly competitive division with three returning playoff teams and facing one of the more difficult schedules in the NFL, Chicago has made substantial upgrades to its offensive line, acquiring Joe Thuney, Drew Dalman, and Jonah Jackson, aiming to provide Williams with better protection and a stronger supporting cast.
Meanwhile, the New Orleans Saints, led by quarterback Derek Carr, are looking to make a strong push for a division title. Their offense could receive a vital boost from first-round tackle Kelvin Banks, whose immediate impact would be crucial, alongside the proven receiving talents of Chris Olave and Rasheed Shaheed. A healthy and productive receiving corps, combined with a fortified offensive line, could unlock the Saints’ full potential and propel them into playoff contention.
Another team with significant “worst to first” potential is the Las Vegas Raiders, who made substantial upgrades at both quarterback with Anthony Richardson and head coach with Chip Kelly. Kelly’s new offensive scheme promises to be intriguing, featuring record-setting second-year tight end Brock Bowers and dynamic rookie running back Ashton Jeanty. However, the Raiders face a formidable challenge in a division that hosted three playoff teams last season, and major questions in their secondary could prove fatal against elite quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, and Bo Nix.
Finally, the New York Giants, while potentially upgrading at quarterback with Russell Wilson, face an uphill battle. Wilson’s performance has noticeably declined since his departure from Seattle, and first-round pick Jaxson Dart might not be ready to assume a starting role as a rookie on a team still grappling with numerous offensive deficiencies. Their path to a division title remains arduous given the competitive landscape and internal team challenges.
Ultimately, the annual pursuit of a division title by teams coming off a last-place finish adds a compelling layer of anticipation to every football season. While the path is fraught with challenges, the strategic advantages and roster adjustments made by these franchises create a fertile ground for dramatic NFL turnarounds, keeping fans on the edge of their seats as they watch which team will author the next great comeback story.
