NFL 2025 Season Kicks Off with Eagles Cowboys Opener, Roster Shakeups, and Controversial Taunting Crackdown

The NFL is gearing up for the start of the 2025 season, with the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles hosting the Dallas Cowboys in the opener on September 4 according to ESPN. The biggest headlines in the league revolve around roster finalizations, major trades, and a controversial new taunting crackdown.

All 32 teams finalized their 53-man rosters by the August 27 cut deadline. Notable moves include the Panthers cutting Hunter Renfrow and the Raiders acquiring quarterback Kenny Pickett from the Browns, as reported by ESPN. Cleveland made space for rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders by moving Pickett, a clear signal that youth is now being prioritized in their quarterback room. The Vikings also shook things up, trading Sam Howell to the Eagles and reacquiring veteran receiver Adam Thielen from the Panthers to address a depleted receiving corps, with Jordan Addison suspended and Justin Jefferson returning from injury according to CBS Sports.

Waiver claims have been active. The Titans led with four new additions this week, while the Jets, despite being seventh in waiver priority, managed to snag three: linebacker Cam Jones, offensive tackle Esa Pole (both from the Chiefs), and tight end Jelani Woods from the Colts. The Patriots made headlines by claiming former Giants QB Tommy DeVito, adding him to a quarterback room with rookie Drake Maye and Joshua Dobbs. Conversely, Browns backup Tyler Huntley was cut but quickly picked up by the Ravens for their practice squad, marking a return after four seasons in Baltimore as noted by CBS Sports.

Contract disputes have quieted, but not disappeared. The Bengals ended a standoff with sack leader Trey Hendrickson by agreeing to a $14 million raise for one year, maintaining the core of Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Hendrickson for at least this season. According to NFL.com, it’s seen as a “good faith” gesture and sets up Cincinnati as a contender if they can make it to the Super Bowl.

The league itself faces controversy, this time for its decision to crack down on taunting. NFL officials cited a spike in unsportsmanlike gestures, up 55% over last season, prompting stricter enforcement for 2025. Gestures that simulate weapons or go over the line with vulgarity are being targeted, with an increase in flags from 25 to 42 last year. According to BroBible and Bundle, league executives insist players can celebrate in unique ways, but must avoid anything deemed inappropriate. However, many fans and players—including Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow—have criticized the move. Burrow recently affirmed his support for expressive celebrations, saying on the “New Heights” podcast with Jason and Travis Kelce that as professionals, players shouldn't get their feelings hurt by taunting. Despite pushback, the “No Fun League” label persists, and the debate over what is entertainment versus unsportsmanlike behavior continues.

For die-hard fans looking for deeper analysis, advanced stats and betting angles are in focus. VSiN’s “A Numbers Game” points out potential regression candidates, including the Bears, Colts, and Vikings, with QB questions and roster holes driving skepticism. The Colts’ reliance on Daniel Jones is cited as a major risk. Meanwhile, the Chargers’ offseason moves are being widely panned, with concerns about roster construction and lack of support for Justin Herbert. The Seahawks are pegged to finish last in the NFC West after correlated divisional betting analysis. There’s wide volatility projected for the Dolphins, hinging on health, while the Raiders are a wildcard with Kenny Pickett now in the fold.

Casual fans will want to know: Trades are reshaping teams, rising rookies could get a chance to shine, and familiar faces like Adam Thielen are returning to old homes. The crackdown on taunting means celebrations may look different on game days. For those tracking betting or fantasy football, quarterback...