As the NFL Regular Season Heats Up, 12 Players Feel the Heat

With six weeks completed in the 2025 NFL regular season and a dozen more to go, numerous players are under increasing pressure to deliver. Some entered the season with high expectations, while others have seen their responsibilities grow due to lackluster performances or unfavorable conditions. Here’s a detailed look at 12 players who are facing a critical juncture in their careers.

Justin Fields, Quarterback, New York Jets

Fields, now on his third team in three years, has yet to secure a single victory for the Jets after six games. Despite a few decent moments, he took nine sacks and completed only nine of 17 passes for a meager 45 yards in Week 6 against the Broncos. Having been sacked 14 times over the last two weeks, Fields faces immense pressure; this may be his last opportunity to establish himself as a starting quarterback in the NFL.

Will Ward, Quarterback, Tennessee Titans

Ward, a rookie, is struggling with the league's worst QBR at 19.8 and has been sacked a league-high 25 times. With his internal clock causing issues, there's increasing concern about his performance. The Titans must support Ward but also avoid further damaging his confidence as they aim for a recovery.

Geno Smith, Quarterback, Seattle Seahawks

Leading the NFL in interceptions with 10, Smith has faced a tough season as one of the lowest-scoring teams struggles to find rhythm. As age becomes a factor, he must prove he can overcome a disappointing performance level and establish himself as more than a stopgap option.

Trevor Lawrence, Quarterback, Jacksonville Jaguars

Despite a strong start for the Jaguars, Lawrence’s play has raised eyebrows as he sits with one of the lowest passer ratings in the league. As his contract becomes burdensome, the Jaguars are keen to see improvement, but concerns over his potential long-term viability are mounting.

Kyler Murray, Quarterback, Arizona Cardinals

Before a recent foot injury, Murray’s performance had him struggling to connect with star receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. Despite backing from head coach Jonathan Gannon, his situation remains tenuous as he must prove his worth moving forward.

Rhamondre Stevenson, Running Back, New England Patriots

Stevenson’s performance has been subpar, averaging just 3.1 yards per carry and fumbling three times. With a substantial contract extension and competition from rookie TreVeyon Henderson, Stevenson’s position is increasingly precarious.

Zach Charbonnet, Running Back, Seattle Seahawks

At 2.6 yards per carry, Charbonnet finds himself in a difficult position as Kenneth Walker III shines. As teams eye improved performances, Charbonnet must step up quickly to maintain his place within the roster.

Marvin Harrison Jr., Wide Receiver, Arizona Cardinals

With only two touchdowns in his sophomore season, Harrison has failed to meet expectations. He’s facing pressure to develop chemistry with his quarterbacks or risk questions about his ability to justify a top-five draft status.

Isaiah Wynn, Left Tackle, Pittsburgh Steelers

Wynn’s struggles in pass protection have put both his long-term future and the Steelers' playoff aspirations in jeopardy. With other talent waiting in the wings, he must turn his performance around quickly.

Marvin Mims, Wide Receiver, Cincinnati Bengals

Mims has failed to build on expectations following a challenging rookie season and is now at risk of losing his spot in the Bengals’ offense. As the team considers changes, he must show significant improvement.

Lukas Van Ness, Linebacker, Green Bay Packers

Dealing with injuries and limited playing time, Van Ness is losing critical opportunities to showcase his talent. The upcoming games are vital for him to solidify a future with the team.

Christian Gonzalez, Cornerback, New England Patriots

After an injury-riddled career start, Gonzalez must prove his value in a struggling Patriots squad. As his fifth-year option looms, he has many crucial games ahead.

As the pressure intensifies for these players, their performances over the coming weeks will determine not only their individual futures but also the trajectory of their respective teams.