NFC betting preview: Who are Eagles' biggest challengers?

With less than a month remaining before the 2025 NFL season kicks off, we covered a few storylines as training camps opened: the quarterback battle in Cleveland, the Chiefs' outlook as Super Bowl losers, and provided a look at all 32 teams' championship odds.

That said, it's time to preview the NFC divisions. Stay tuned later in the week for our AFC breakdown.

NFC East odds

🏈 Check out NFC division odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here

The NFC East hasn't had a repeat champion since the Eagles won consecutive titles from 2001 to 2004. And this iteration of the Eagles seems likely to do it again - the defending Super Bowl champions are the biggest favorite to win the division.

While Philadelphia lost experience and talent on its defense, which was the league's best last season, the team trusts its budding stars to carry the torch. Meanwhile, the Eagles return 10 of their 11 offensive starters from the NFL's second-best rushing offense and eighth-best overall offense.

In Dallas, Jerry Jones is dealing with yet another disgruntled player in Micah Parsons, who requested a trade after contract extension negotiations fell apart. Parsons is on pace to become one of the league's best pass rushers, and he deserves to be paid as such. But even though he requested a trade, Dallas doesn't have to move him - he's under contract for two more seasons. But with or without Parsons, the Cowboys likely don't have a contending roster.

The Commanders are also going through turmoil during training camp. Terry McLaurin also requested a trade amid a contract dispute and is holding in during camp. Washington's situation with McLaurin could have a huge impact on Jayden Daniels in his second season.

Speaking of Daniels, sophomore quarterbacks often take a step back after impressive rookie campaigns, as coaches around the NFL have a full offseason to scout them. That's not to say Daniels is heading down that path, but it's fair to expect some regression.

BET: Eagles to win NFC East (-160)

NFC North odds

🏈 Check out NFC division odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here

This is the toughest division in the conference; all four teams will be disappointed with anything short of a playoff appearance.

The Lions won 15 games last season and are returning the bulk of their team. Still, losing their offensive and defensive coordinators - both took head coaching jobs elsewhere - is worrisome. The Eagles were in the same situation in 2022 after their Super Bowl appearance and had a disastrous finish the following year.

The Vikings let Sam Darnold walk in free agency because of their confidence in J.J. McCarthy, who missed his rookie season with a knee injury. Their roster is filled with talent, and Kevin O'Connell is an offensive mastermind - but is McCarthy capable of ensuring the Vikings are a top-six passing offense like last season, especially in a division full of trustworthy signal-callers? That question will determine Minnesota's fate.

Expectations of Caleb Williams have lowered after his mediocre first season. The Bears didn't help their rookie quarterback, though, surrounding him with a weak offensive line, limited weapons, and a subpar coach. Chicago made the right moves this offseason, hiring Ben Johnson, the best playcaller on the market, and improving the offensive line by acquiring Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson. Despite having the worst odds, the Bears will likely be contenders in the NFC North.

The Packers could reclaim the North this season, something they haven't done since Aaron Rodgers left. Green Bay won 11 games last season, even after Jordan Love suffered a knee injury in Week 1. Love is healthy again and has a claim as the best signal-caller in the division because of his dual-threat ability. The Packers also added another weapon when they drafted Texas wideout Matthew Golden, which should help Love even more.

BET: Packers to win NFC North (+250)

NFC West odds

🏈 Check out NFC division odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here

Injuries derailed the 49ers' season, failing to overcome the daunting Super Bowl hangover. But oddsmakers expect them to brush that off and be contenders again.

However, Matthew Stafford gives the Rams an edge because he's the best quarterback in the division. Yes, he's dealing with a back injury during training camp, but he should be ready to go for Week 1.

The Rams return a similar group to the one that won seven of the final eight contests last season. Jared Verse leads their frightening defensive corps, which will balance out their questionable secondary. Equipped with explosive playmakers in Davante Adams and Puka Nacua on the outside for Stafford to deliver the ball to, as well as a great pass rush, Los Angeles is a Super Bowl sleeper.

BET: Rams to win NFC West (+175)

NFC South odds

🏈 Check out NFC division odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here

The Buccaneers have won the NFC South in four consecutive seasons, dating back to the Tom Brady era. Baker Mayfield had an excellent 2024 campaign, but will now have his third offensive coordinator in as many years. Mike Evans and Chris Godwin aren't getting any younger, either. This may be the Bucs' last chance with their current core.

There's no quarterback debate in Atlanta anymore - Michael Penix Jr. is the guy after showing off his passing abilities in five games last season and showcasing his incredible arm and pinpoint accuracy in college. When the Falcons used a top-10 pick on him in 2024, it signaled the end of the Kirk Cousins era before it even started. If Penix's college efforts can translate to the NFL, it shouldn't take him long to turn the Falcons into a winning team.

The Panthers took strides late last year thanks to Bryce Young's strong play under center, but they still have a long way to go to push for the division title. The Saints, meanwhile, could be the worst team in the NFL - they seem destined to have the first overall selection in the 2026 draft.

Tampa Bay's 10 wins were enough to win a weak division last year, but the competition has improved. Atlanta feels like the team to push the Bucs aside and reclaim the NFC South for the first time since 2016.

BET: Falcons to win NFC South (+225)

Sam Oshtry is a sports writer at theScore. You can follow him on X @soshtry for more betting coverage.

US: Must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER; Hope is here. Call (800)-327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org for 24/7 support (MA); Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).

ON: Please play responsibly. 19+. ON only. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call ConnexOntario 24/7 at 1-866-531-2600. Text us at 247247 or chat with us at www.connexontario.ca.