18. Las Vegas Raiders
Last week: 22
The Las Vegas Raiders might not have the pieces needed to actually win the AFC West, but they are looking like a team that can keep pace by winning the games they’re supposed to win.
While the Raiders didn’t exactly blow out the Patriots, who were one of the NFL’s worst teams in 2024, they had to feel good leaving New England. Cross-country trips are never easy, and Pete Carroll had his squad prepared.
Geno Smith had a few hiccups but little trouble pushing the ball downfield, even after Brock Bowers exited. Other pass-catchers stepped up, while rookie running back Ashton Jeanty handled a high volume of plays, even if he rarely found open lanes.
Las Vegas will get a chance to see just how well it stacks up to its division rivals next Monday night against the Los Angeles Chargers. —Kevin Knox