Determining the superiority of the NFL East player lists is not as straightforward as merely assessing the division’s top receiver duos, which boast an abundance of high-profile talent. The Philadelphia Eagles earned a reputation over many seasons for having the finest receiving duo in the division, namely A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. However, this preeminence is now being challenged due to the Dallas Cowboys’ newly formed duo of George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb. Indeed, we also have to consider the Washington Commanders’ new duo of Deebo Samuel and Terry McLaurin, and watch out for the New York Giants’ potential breakout stars Malik Nabers and Wan’Dale Robinson.
Yet, the route to the NFC East title, and more impressively the Super Bowl, did not rest solely on the shoulders of Philadelphia’s elite receivers. It was a team effort, with key supporting performances, notably the crucial inputs of skilled quarterback Jalen Hurts. Looking ahead, it is clear that rounding up a set of dazzling receivers will not be sufficient to claim the NFC East prize in 2025. With that in mind, let’s investigate how we have ranked the abundant talents in the division in light of recent drafts and free-agent dealings.
The Eagles manage to hold onto the top spot, which demonstrates the team’s depth and the excellent work done by General Manager Howie Roseman in meticulously building the roster over the years. Interestingly, while the three adversaries in the NFC East welcomed a lot of fresh talent, this season’s Super Bowl winners were compelled to let several key starters depart in order to maintain flexibility around the salary cap.
Although there has been a host of trades and signings in other quarters, Philadelphia remains the team to beat, thanks to their formidable offensive line and star running back Saquon Barkley, who clocked an impressive 2,005 yards last season. The Eagles now turn to Kenyon Green to fill the void left by right guard Mekhi Becton, who has joined the Los Angeles Chargers.
In terms of top receiver duo rivalry, the competition certainly heats up. The Eagles are now heavily reliant on talents such as Azeez Ojulari, Bryce Huff, Joshua Uche, or Jalyx Hunt effectively taking charge on the defensive side. Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys leveraged a late off-season trade of Pickens to evolve from an NFL East underdog to a serious contender.
Dallas initially lacked the offensive firepower to truly capitalize on their talented line. But the addition of the new offensive line gives quarterback Dak Prescott plenty of opportunity to deliver far-reaching passes to Pickens and Lamb. Still, the Cowboys are yet to find a dependable running back. If the team can bolster their front and keep the secondary healthy, they could have a turnaround season on defense.
The Washington Commanders have built a squad capable of contending, which had substantial deficiencies just 18 months ago. Consistent efforts to mend their formerly unstable secondary have resulted in drafting Trey Amos and recruiting the skilled veteran Jonathan Jones. Furthermore, their decision to go with slot cornerback Mike Sainristil, a second-round pick in 2024, seems to be paying off.
While the offensive capabilities of the New York Giants need substantial improvement, the team has brought in new quarterback options with the addition of Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, as well as first-round pick Jaxson Dart. The Giants could boast one of the strongest defensive fronts in the league. The prominent vulnerabilities of this team, however, are offensively skewed.
Wide receiver Robinson and running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. are coming off a successful 2024 season, and freshman running back Cameron Skattebo might just turn out to be a dependable asset. And while concerns remain about the reliability of multiple spots on the offensive line, a fit and healthy Andrew Thomas could form a crucial component of the Giants’ game plan.