Stephen A. Smith Reveals Shocking Questions That Could Change the Entire NFL Season!

Alright, so here we are again, standing at the precipice of another NFL season with that familiar electric buzz humming through the air. Now, picture Stephen A. Smith—not just your average commentator but a man who somehow manages to blend sharp wit, undeniable passion, and a knack for pinpointing the juiciest storylines—laying down his top five burning questions as Week 1 creeps closer. It’s like he’s holding up a mirror to the league’s soul, asking: Can the Chiefs shake off last year’s Super Bowl gut punch or will doubt gnaw at their swagger? Is rookie JJ McCarthy ready to carry the Vikings’ hopes without blinking? And hey, what about that tussle for the NFL’s best receiver between Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson—who’s truly wearing the crown? Then there’s Micah Parsons, the Cowboys’ defensive linchpin, caught in the contract limelight, and Aaron Rodgers, the seasoned gunner tasked with proving he’s still got that magic left in him. Reading through Smith’s list feels like flipping the script on the familiar preseason hype—you’re left wondering, what’s really going to define this season’s narrative? So, buckle up—because these questions aren’t just idle chatter; they’re the sparks that could ignite a campaign packed with surprises, drama, and yes, unforgettable football moments.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - NOVEMBER 17: Stephen A. Smith attends 2024 PrizePicks World Championship at Pullman Yards on November 17, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. — (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for PrizePicks)

The NFL season approaches with storylines brewing across every franchise.

From veteran superstars facing career crossroads to rookies stepping into massive roles, the league enters another chapter filled with compelling narratives that will define the next several months.

ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith recently outlined his five biggest questions heading into Week 1 during a First Take segment.

His list captures the pressure points that could shape how this season unfolds.

.@stephenasmith's top five questions heading into this NFL season pic.twitter.com/olFgnlv9QZ

— First Take (@FirstTake) August 7, 2025

Smith started with the Kansas City Chiefs and their response to last year’s lopsided Super Bowl defeat.

The question lingers whether that loss will create doubt or fuel another championship run for a team accustomed to winning at the highest level.

Rookie quarterback JJ McCarthy landed at number two on Smith’s list. The Minnesota Vikings drafted McCarthy to replace a quarterback who threw for over 4,300 yards and 35 touchdowns last season.

With Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison providing elite targets and Kevin O’Connell calling plays, McCarthy faces enormous expectations in his debut campaign.

The third storyline involves the ongoing debate between Ja’Marr Chase and Jefferson for the league’s top receiver.

Smith highlighted how McCarthy will be throwing to Jefferson while Joe Burrow continues targeting Chase.

He also mentioned Tyreek Hill as part of this elite group that showcases the incredible receiving talent across the NFL.

Dallas Cowboys star Micah Parsons earned the fourth spot on Smith’s list. Contract discussions cannot interfere with Parsons anchoring the defense, especially with Dak Prescott earning $60 million annually to lead the offense.

The Cowboys need their defensive cornerstone available to maximize their championship window.

Aaron Rodgers claimed the top position on Smith’s rankings. The veteran quarterback must prove he can still perform at an elite level.

Pittsburgh’s defense appears ready to compete while weapons like DK Metcalf and Pat Freiermuth provide offensive options.

The pressure falls on Rodgers to justify the expectations surrounding his arrival.

These storylines represent the crossroads facing multiple franchises as another season begins.

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