Fans Share Optimism Levels Ahead of 2025 NFL Season Kickoff

ARLINGTON, Texas — As the 2025 NFL season approaches, fan optimism is being measured through The Athletic’s second annual Hope-O-Meter. This poll gauges how hopeful fans are about their teams ahead of the kickoff. Responses were collected prior to recent announcements affecting teams, such as a surprising player trade. Consequently, some fan optimism may have shifted since.

The Dallas Cowboys fans expressed 13.1 percent optimism for the upcoming season, and with recent news, that number may have dipped further. In contrast, Green Bay Packers fans felt significantly more hopeful, reporting a 75.4 percent optimism level, bolstered by a favorable roster situation.

The Chicago Bears have seen a drop in fan optimism from last year’s 97.6 percent to 88.2 percent. The shift came after a disappointing 5-12 season last year, leading to the dismissal of head coach Matt Eberflus. A new coach has taken over, but long-time fans still express skepticism about the team.

Optimism among fan bases varies widely. Some fans are buoyed by the performance of key players, while others express doubts due to historical failures or recent trends. For instance, one Packers fan remarked, “The young talent combined with experienced players makes me hopeful,” while a Bears supporter said, “I need to see it to believe it.”

Across the league, varying levels of optimism reflect the unique circumstances for each team. The Philadelphia Eagles fans maintain a positive outlook despite losing key veterans, while the Tampa Bay Buccaneers appear hopeful about their chances of climbing to playoff contention.

As the NFL season approaches, fans are eagerly anticipating how their teams will perform, particularly with the nostalgia and hope that comes each fall. Whether optimistic or cautious, every fan is ready for the kickoff of another exciting season.