I am looking at a 16in & 17in rim, the 16" has a -14mm offset and the 17" has a +25mm offset.  Is it true to assume that you want all Jeeps without a lift to have a (-offset) that way the rim clears the inside fenders without any rubbing?  

tire sizes--P265/70R-17  

Backspacing is more important on a Jeep wheel because they are typically wider. The wheel you choose depends on the amount of lift, the type of Jeep, and the tire you choose and less on the offset.