The AFC East has become one of the NFL’s most intriguing divisions over the last decade, with teams ranging from perennial contenders to those in full rebuild mode. As we head into the 2025 season, the division has a clear favorite, but plenty of storylines will shape how it unfolds. The Buffalo Bills look poised to chase history, while the Patriots, Dolphins, and Jets each face unique challenges. Here’s a closer look at how the AFC East is projected to play out in 2025.
Buffalo Bills: 17–0
The Buffalo Bills enter 2025 with sky-high expectations, and for good reason. Josh Allen is in his prime and remains one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the league. He can beat defenses with his cannon arm, create chaos with his legs, and inspire confidence in the huddle. What makes Buffalo truly dangerous is the balance between their offense and defense.
On offense, Allen doesn’t need a superstar supporting cast. He has a knack for elevating the players around him, turning average receivers into productive weapons. The offensive line has improved in pass protection, giving Allen more time to operate. On defense, the Bills are aggressive, forcing turnovers and closing games in crunch time.
The road to perfection is never easy, but this team has the leadership, discipline, and confidence to make a serious run. Predicting a 17–0 record may sound bold, but Buffalo has the right mix of talent and coaching to pull it off.
New England Patriots: 9–8
The Patriots may not be Super Bowl contenders yet, but they’re finally heading in the right direction after a few rough seasons. The hiring of Mike Vrabel has brought back a sense of toughness and accountability that had been missing. Under Vrabel, New England has embraced a physical identity, relying heavily on defense and the running game to control the tempo.
Second-year quarterback Drake Maye will be under the spotlight all season. While he’s still learning, Maye has shown flashes of what made him a high draft pick. He’s supported by a defense that remains one of the stingiest in the league, featuring players like Kyle Dugger and a deep, aggressive front seven.
At 9–8, New England isn’t ready to challenge Buffalo for the division crown, but they’re no longer an easy out. They could be in the mix for a Wild Card spot and, more importantly, they’re laying the groundwork for the future.
Miami Dolphins: 8–9
The Dolphins are perhaps the most unpredictable team in the division. On paper, they have explosive talent. Tyreek Hill is still one of the fastest and most dangerous wide receivers in football, and running back De’Von Achane is primed for a breakout season. Adding tight end Darren Waller gives Miami another weapon to stretch defenses.
The issue is consistency. When everything is clicking, Miami looks like a playoff contender. But when injuries pile up or the offense struggles, they can quickly unravel. Tua Tagovailoa remains the biggest question mark. If he can stay healthy and play with confidence, the Dolphins could exceed expectations. If not, they’ll hover just under .500 again.
At 8–9, Miami will win some highlight-reel games and play spoiler, but they’re not yet steady enough to contend for the top of the AFC East.
New York Jets: 2–15
It’s shaping up to be another long season for the Jets. While cornerback Sauce Gardner continues to prove he’s one of the best defensive backs in the league, the rest of the roster has too many holes. The quarterback situation is shaky, the offensive line is inconsistent, and the offensive weapons don’t scare opposing defenses.
Defensively, the Jets will keep games close at times, but without consistent offensive production, it’s hard to see them winning many games. At 2–15, the Jets are firmly in rebuild mode. The bright side? They’ll be in position to grab top talent in next year’s draft and hopefully stabilize the quarterback position.
Final Outlook
The AFC East in 2025 is clearly led by Buffalo. The Bills have the star power, depth, and confidence to chase perfection, and they’re the only true Super Bowl contender in the division. The Patriots are rebuilding the right way under Mike Vrabel, with a defense-first approach that keeps them competitive. The Dolphins remain flashy and dangerous but inconsistent, while the Jets are still searching for answers.
Projected Standings:
Buffalo Bills: 17–0
New England Patriots: 9–8
Miami Dolphins: 8–9
New York Jets: 2–15
This season may end with Buffalo making history, but the real intrigue comes from watching whether New England and Miami can take the next step, and how quickly the Jets can dig themselves out of the basement. One thing is certain: the AFC East will be a fascinating division to watch in 2025.