• Five underrated NFL teams are showing untapped potential after Week 3 of the 2025 season.
• The Chargers’ 3-0 start and Justin Herbert’s MVP-level play make them a Super Bowl dark horse.
• New England’s offense, led by Drake Maye, is outperforming their low power rankings.
• Arizona, Chicago, and Cleveland boast strong defenses and dynamic offenses, ready to shift narratives.
• Week 4 matchups could elevate these teams’ profiles as they prove their worth.

As an NFL fan who’s always on the lookout for hidden gems, I get a thrill from spotting underrated NFL teams that are ready to break out. Three weeks into the 2025 season, five squads are flying under the radar but showing serious promise. From balanced rosters to breakout stars, these teams could shake up the league. Here’s why they deserve more attention as Week 4 approaches.

1. Los Angeles Chargers: The Overlooked Contender

Record: 3-0
Why They’re Underrated: Despite sweeping the AFC West, the Chargers sit seventh in Super Bowl odds at 16-to-1 (FanDuel).
What Stands Out: Their offense ranks sixth (362.3 YPG), and their defense is eighth (276.7 YPG allowed). Justin Herbert’s MVP-caliber play, plus strong coaching, makes them a complete package.
Why It Matters: Like a sleeper hit in the box office, the Chargers are poised for a big run.
Week 4 Watch: Facing the Giants, Herbert could exploit a tough defense.

2. New England Patriots: Sneaky Potential

Record: 1-2
Why They’re Underrated: Ranked 27th by NFL.com, the Patriots are better than their record suggests.
What Stands Out: Their offense is 11th in yards (346.0 YPG), with Drake Maye among the top-five passers. The defense, 18th in points allowed, is solid, and +225 playoff odds (FanDuel) make them a value bet.
Why It Matters: They’re like a startup with untapped potential—ready to surprise.
Week 4 Watch: A winnable game against Carolina could spark momentum.

3. Arizona Cardinals: Ready to Soar

Record: 2-1
Why They’re Underrated: At +700 to win the NFC West, Arizona’s a play away from 3-0.
What Stands Out: Their defense allows just 17.0 PPG (top five), and Kyler Murray’s speed, paired with a solid receiving corps, keeps opponents guessing. A breakout from Marvin Harrison Jr. could elevate them.
Why It Matters: Like a stock about to surge, Arizona’s potential is undervalued.
Week 4 Watch: Thursday Night Football against Seattle could shift their odds.

4. Chicago Bears: Building Momentum

Record: 1-2
Why They’re Underrated: A Week 3 win showed Caleb Williams and coach Ben Johnson clicking.
What Stands Out: Williams threw three TDs, backed by playmakers like Rome Odunze and DJ Moore. The offensive line’s improved, allowing 2.0 sacks per game—half of 2024’s rate.
Why It Matters: They’re like a young band hitting its stride, with room to grow.
Week 4 Watch: A favorable matchup against the Raiders could build confidence.

5. Cleveland Browns: Defensive Powerhouse

Record: 1-2
Why They’re Underrated: Despite a 25th ranking by NFL.com and 500-to-1 Super Bowl odds (BetMGM), their Week 3 upset over Green Bay demands respect.
What Stands Out: Their defense leads the NFL, allowing 204.3 YPG, with Myles Garrett anchoring a fierce unit.
Why It Matters: Like an underdog landing a knockout, Cleveland’s a threat in any game.
Week 4 Watch: Facing Detroit, their defense could keep them in it.

Final Thoughts

Spotting underrated NFL teams is like finding hidden treasure in a crowded league. The Chargers’ balance, the Patriots’ upside, and the Cardinals, Bears, and Browns’ flashes of brilliance make them must-watch squads. As a fan who lives for these breakout stories, I’m excited to see how Week 4 reshapes their narratives. Grab your jersey, settle in, and watch these teams prove they’re more than their rankings suggest in 2025.

Read also: NFL Teams in Trouble: 5 Squads Facing Challenges in 2025

Aliha

Hi, I’m Aliha! I’ve been a huge NFL fan for as long as I can remember, and I love sharing my thoughts, updates, and insights about the game. Whether it’s big plays, team news, or behind-the-scenes stories, writing about the NFL gives me a chance to connect with fellow fans who share the same passion for football.