Starting 0-2 doesn’t always lead to a lost NFL season. Just last year, three different teams failed to win their first two games, only to turn around and make the playoffs. Historically, however, the odds are stacked heavily against that kind of rebound, with only 8.6% of all 0-2 teams going on to make the postseason since the inception of NFL playoffs in 1933.
After two weeks of the 2025 campaign, 10 different teams are still in search of their first victory. The most notable among them: the reigning AFC champion Kansas City Chiefs, who are 0-2 for the first time in Patrick Mahomes’ NFL career, freshly toppled by the Philadelphia Eagles in a defensive rematch of Super Bowl LIX.
Is it time for the Chiefs to panic after the club all but cruised to five of the last six Super Bowls? And what about the other 0-2 teams in the early-season standings? We ranked all 10 from most to least concerning, offering one reason of optimism for each squad as they look to get their first “W” in Week 3:
10. Cleveland Browns
English: Myles Garrett may be the face of the franchise, but even after signing a $160 million deal, he called the Browns “embarrassing” following a blowout loss to the Ravens. With 40-year-old Joe Flacco leading the offense, moving the ball has been nearly impossible.
Reason for optimism: Rookie QBs Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders should soon see more snaps, giving Cleveland at least some long-term upside.
9. New York Jets
English: After fighting hard in Week 1, the Jets collapsed in Week 2 against the Bills, surrendering 30 points while QB Justin Fields entered concussion protocol, leaving Tyrod Taylor as the likely starter.
Reason for optimism: The run defense can’t be much worse, and Taylor may offer steadier pocket presence than Fields.
8. Miami Dolphins
English: Mike McDaniel’s seat is warming. Despite flashes from Tua and the speed trio (Hill, Waddle, Achane), turnovers and a leaky secondary leave Miami giving up 33 points per game.
Reason for optimism: Explosiveness is still there. Tua showed he can light up defenses when timing clicks.
7. Tennessee Titans
English: Discipline is a disaster under Brian Callahan, with the Titans leading the NFL in penalties. The offense is last in total yards, averaging just 192.5 per game.
Reason for optimism: Rookie QB Cameron Ward showed flashes, including a highlight cross-body TD. He’s raw but dangerous.
6. Carolina Panthers
English: Bryce Young’s hopeful finish to 2024 has faded quickly, already throwing three INTs this year. Dave Canales’ offense struggles to find explosiveness.
Reason for optimism: Young nearly led a comeback in Week 2. If the run game helps, he can take a leap forward.
5. New Orleans Saints
English: A rebuild year under Kellen Moore shows, but the defense still gave up too much to Mac Jones and the 49ers’ emergency QB in Week 2.
Reason for optimism: Rookie Spencer Rattler threw three TDs and kept the Saints competitive in close games.
4. Chicago Bears
English: Ben Johnson’s magic from Detroit hasn’t translated. The Bears blew a late lead in Week 1, then surrendered 52 points to the Lions in Week 2.
Reason for optimism: Rookie Caleb Williams looks capable and remains the clear offensive centerpiece.
3. New York Giants
English: A flat Week 1 was followed by a big-play show in Week 2, but even Russell Wilson’s deep balls couldn’t topple the Cowboys.
Reason for optimism: With Brian Burns, Abdul Carter, and Malik Nabers, the Giants still have pieces that can ignite games.
2. Houston Texans
English: Two games, two flat offensive showings. Stroud lacks reliable weapons, and DeMeco Ryans’ defense can’t cover all the cracks.
Reason for optimism: AFC South is wide open, and Stroud could soon get help from Christian Kirk.
1. Kansas City Chiefs
English: From Super Bowl regulars to 0-2, the Chiefs look rattled. Mahomes is scrambling for his life with little structure, while injuries pile up.
Reason for optimism: Mahomes always finds a way. Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy will return to boost the passing game.
