sportsnaut.com

NFL Power Rankings 2025: Week-by-Week NFL Evaluations of All 32 Teams

NFL Power Rankings

Who is the best team in the NFL? The offseason and preseason have drawn to a close and rosters are finalized, with all focus now shifting towards Week 1. Ahead of the 2025 season kicking off, we’re evaluating all 32 teams in our latest NFL power rankings heading into the season.

We’ll update our NFL power rankings every Sunday night, analyzing all 32 teams every week. Let’s dive into our evaluations on all 32 clubs. You can find out NFL power rankings from the previous weeks further below.

Week 11

1. Los Angeles Rams (3)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

A statement win for the Los Angeles Rams. Matthew Stafford wasn’t particularly effective in this one, but he didn’t need to be. Kyren Williams (91 yards and 1 touchdown on 12 carries) was outstanding against a top-three run defense, carrying the Rams offense. Meanwhile, Los Angeles returned to its familiar game plan against Sam Darnold and turned it into 4 takeaways and a 25 percent red-zone conversion rate allowed. The Rams are 8-2 on the year and look like the best team in the NFL right now.

2. New England Patriots (2)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

David Butler II-Imagn Images

Some view the New England Patriots as a fluke, a team destined to lose when it steps onto center stage and faces a top opponent. The thing is, though, you can find blemishes on the résumés of the best teams in the AFC (Chiefs, Bills, and Colts) this season that are even worse than New England’s marks. What matters right now is that the Patriots are 9-2, and the rest of their schedule gives Drake Maye and company a path to home-field advantage and a first-round bye come playoff time.

3. Philadelphia Eagles (5)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Whether it’s by choice or necessity, this is clearly the style of play the Philadelphia Eagles need to win with. It might leave one of DeVonta Smith or A.J. Brown frustrated each week and the Sunday Night Football performance won’t squash the calls from the fan base for Kevin Patullo to be fired. As long as Jalen Hurts is protecting the football, though, this Eagles defense can carry the team to victories against top-flight competition on its own.

4. Indianapolis Colts (4)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

In his last two games before the Week 11 bye, quarterback Daniel Jones had a 76.5 QB rating with seven total turnovers. The Indianapolis Colts have to hope it’s not a sign of the former first-round pick regressing closer to the player we saw for the majority of his NFL career. What Shane Steichen can do is put this offense on Jonathan Taylor’s shoulders, with the OPOY candidate averaging 140 scrimmage yards per game with 17 total touchdowns. Just as important, this Colts defense will hopefully get Charvarius Ward back sometime soon to pair with Sauce Gardner.

5. Buffalo Bills (7)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

Despite three turnovers and some horrendous defense, the Buffalo Bills still found a way to a much-needed victory. It felt like the Josh Allen we saw a season ago, making a few mistakes (2 interceptions) and then wowing with everything else in a six-touchdown performance. Buffalo won’t get much rest, facing the Texans defense on Thursday Night Football, but fortune might be on the team’s side with C.J. Stroud (concussion) out.

6. Seattle Seahawks (1)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The Seattle Seahawks will be kicking themselves in this one. Sam Darnold’s turnovers and the offese’s inability to turn red-zone trips into touchdowns proved costly. Even with all of that happening, the Seahawks defense played well enough for Jason Myers to attempt the game-winning field goal. It’s a painful loss, but the Seahawks are still 7-3 and they can take out their frustrations on the Titans in Week 12.

7. Denver Broncos (10)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

The Denver Broncos just find a way to win. It’s rarely pretty, as evidenced by their last two wins against the Texans and Raiders, but they get to enjoy Victory Monday each time. In Week 11, Bo Nix took advantage of the great field position set up by Denver’s defense and twice put Wil Lutz in position to deliver. Just as he did for Sean Payton in New Orleans, Nix is doing the same today for the Broncos. The victory moves Denver to 9-2, taking a commanding lead in the AFC West.

8. Detroit Lions (5)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

It’s safe to say that Dan Campbell taking over offensive play-calling for the Detroit Lions didn’t fix everything. The head coach also seemed unnecessarily overaggressive with his go-for-it mentality on fourth downs in the Sunday Night Football Loss to Philadelphia, sticking with it even when it was evident that Jared Goff was rattled by the pressure. Still, it’s only one loss and there are no major long-term concerns for Detroit. The club will make improvements and rebound from the loss against the Giants next week.

9. Chicago Bears (12)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Brad Rempel-Imagn Images

Are the Chicago Bears one of the best NFL teams in 2025? Probably not. However, they went into Sunday night atop the NFC North thanks to a 7-3 record. Chicago has won 7 of its last 8 games, with Caleb Williams leading three consecutive game-winning drives. Just like that, the Bears have tied their season high for wins from the last five seasons. Regression feels inevitable given the Steelers, Eagles, Packers (twice), and Lions loom on the Bears’ schedule, but Chicago will finish this year with a winning record at a minimum.

10. Green Bay Packers (14)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Yannick Peterhans / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Drops and injuries have become a recurring theme for the Green Bay Packers this season. Josh Jacobs (knee) exited early in Week 11 and didn’t return, a blow an offense that was already struggling couldn’t afford. Fortunately for Green Bay, it was facing the Giants. New York eventually gave the game away, only after the Packers tried to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. It’s hard to have a ton of confidence in this team right now, but the Vikings (Week 12 opponent) have been even worse and don’t seem to have a starting-caliber QB.

11. Baltimore Ravens (13)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

The Baltimore Ravens survived a brutal showing from their offense, improving to 5-5. The path to a .500 record was ugly, but that seems fitting for a team that started the season with a 1-5 record. Baltimore’s defense is trending in the right direction and, since this offensive line doesn’t have to face Myles Garrett again, it should be alright. Up next, a chance for this passing game to get back on track against the Jets.

12. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (11)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

In a game where the Tampa Bay Buccaneers eclipsed the 200-yard rushing mark and their defense couldn’t get a stop, the decision was made to have Baker Mayfield throw it on 3rd-and-2. When he couldn’t convert, Raheem Morris opted to punt the football away, and the Bills answered with a touchdown drive that put the game away at 44-32. Injuries to the receiving corps are an obvious issue right now for Tampa Bay, but coaching feels like the bigger reason the Buccaneers have lost two straight and now sit at 6-4 after a 5-1 start.

13. Pittsburgh Steelers (15)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Phil Didion/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Aaron Rodgers exited with a hand injury before halftime of a 10-6 game, forcing the Pittsburgh Steelers to put the ball in the hands of Mason Rudolph. Fortunately for Mike Tomlin, the Steelers’ defense (2 defensive touchdowns) and Kenneth Gainwell (105 scrimmage yards and 2 touchdowns) turned this into a blowout. They are the reason why the Steelers are 6-4, with the win providing desperately needed breathing room in the AFC North.

14. Kansas City Chiefs (8)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

At some point, you just have to acknowledge the 5-5 record instead of the name. If the NFL Playoffs started today, the Chiefs wouldn’t be in it. To make matters worse, the .500 record comes before they have to take on the nine-win Indianapolis Colts. There’s also still a rematch versus Denver later this season and we wouldn’t rule out the Texans beating Kansas City in Week 14. There’s a very realistic chance we’ll be looking at a 10-7 Chiefs team that barely sneaks into the playoffs when the regular season ends.

15. Houston Texans (16)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Andrew Nelles / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The good news for the Houston Texans is that they are 2-0 with C.J. Stroud still in the concussion protocol. It was the usual suspects on Sunday, with receiver Nico Collins and the Texans’ shutdown defense carrying Davis Mills and Co. to another victory. The 5-5 mark is a decent position to be in, but it already appears that Stroud will be out again for the Thursday Night Football matchup versus Buffalo. Barring an all-time defensive masterpiece, Houston is likely headed for a loss.

16. San Francisco 49ers (17)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Brock Purdy is back and it feels so good for Kyle Shanahan. Everything was working for the San Francisco 49ers offense on Sunday, charting the course for a comfortable three-score victory over Arizona. Moving to 6-4 on the season, San Francisco now gets a very favorable four-week stretch that features the bye (Week 14) and matchups versus the Panthers, Browns and Titans.

17. Los Angeles Chargers (9)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The moment it was announced that Trevor Penning was starting at left tackle, it was over for the Los Angeles Chargers. It’s understandable that injuries forced the team’s hand, but Justin Herbert’s health was always going to be at risk behind this offensive line. Unfortunately, the Week 12 bye won’t change much.

18. Carolina Panthers (18)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Bryce Young delivered. A week after being the reason the Carolina Panthers lost, the third-year quarterback turned back the clock in Atlanta by performing like the Heisman Trophy winner who tore up SEC defenses. Even beyond Young’s 448 passing yards and 3 scores, it was the timing of his biggest drives that should be remembered from this game. Carolina now has six wins for the first time since 2018.

19. Jacksonville Jaguars (21)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The good version of the Jacksonville Jaguars suddenly returned in Week 11. Facing the worst offensive line in football certainly helped, but this pass rush had been non-existent at times coming into the game. Liam Coen also saw his rushing attack (192 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns) wake up after a month-long slumber. Jacksonville is a really weird 6-4 team, but this version of the Jaguars can beat the Cardinals and Titans on the road to close out November.

20. Miami Dolphins (24)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

It was an ugly international win for the Miami Dolphins, but they got their style points last week at home against the Bills. No one will mistake a 4-7 Dolphins team for a playoff contender, but Mike McDaniel and De’Von Achane do have a 3-1 record over the last month. When Miami returns from its Week 12 bye, there’s a very real chance we’ll be looking at a 6-7 team a few weeks later, as long as they can handle their business against the Saints and Jets.

21. Dallas Cowboys (23)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Dallas Cowboys delivered a season-best performance on Monday Night Football. The question is, how much of the success belongs to the Cowboys roster versus what percentage of it is an indictment on the Raiders as a whole. We’ll find that answer out immediately in Week 12 when Dak Prescott and arguably the best receiver tandem in the NFC takes on the red-hot Eagles at AT&T Stadium.

22. Minnesota Vikings (19)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Brad Rempel-Imagn Images

The J.J. McCarthy problem. That’s what the Minnesota Vikings have. He’s now up to nine turnovers this season, and he hasn’t played nearly as much as the rest of the quarterbacks with equally alarming turnover rates. What feels even worse is that he’s wasting Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. Now at 4-6 on the season, McCarthy must head to Lambeau Field to face Micah Parsons and Rashan Gary.

23. Arizona Cardinals (22)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Arizona Cardinals just never had it on Sunday, with a 98-yard kickoff return to the 1-yard line seemingly setting the tone for what the 49ers were going to do in Arizona. Now at 3-7 on the season, the focus shifts to discussion in who will be the Cardinals quarterback in 2026 and whether or not Jonathan Gannon is the right head coach for the franchise.

24. Atlanta Falcons (20)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Brett Davis-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Falcons have lost five in a row, with the last three defeats coming against winning teams and decided by a combined 10 points. It’s a reflection on head coach Raheem Morris at this point. Atlanta has now blown three consecutive fourth-quarter leads, and the coaching staff isn’t taking full advantage of all the talent on this roster. With Michael Penix Jr. now lost for the season and Drake London (knee sprain) potentially missing Week 12, the losses will keep coming for Atlanta.

25. Cincinnati Bengals (25)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Phil Didion/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

There’s no reason Joe Burrow should return this season. The Cincinnati Bengals are a three-loss team that can’t protect Joe Flacco, so there’s little faith this offensive line will do anything to keep Burrow safe coming off surgery. Besides, Cincinnati’s record further demonstrates why the organization is better off telling Burrow to shut it down and come back in 2026.

26. New Orleans Saints (26)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

The New Orleans Saints used their bye week to remind Who Dat Nation that Mickey Loomis is practically like family to ownership, so he’s never leaving. That’s disappointing, given the top decision-maker in the Saints front office hasn’t built a viable playoff-caliber roster since 2020. There are elements of the roster and coaching staff to like, but ownership just reminded us that the person most responsible for this being one of the worst NFL teams is never leaving until he voluntarily retires.

27. New York Giants (28)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Yannick Peterhans / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The New York Giants had a shot at winning against Green Bay in Week 11. Yet, it feels like the Packers kind of let that happen with dropped interceptions and receptions. Jameis Winston probably should’ve had three interceptions on Sunday, but he only threw the game-sealing pick in the end zone. Fortunately, Jaxson Dart (concussion) is nearing a return, and there’s a bit more confidence in the surrounding skill talent given how Wan’Dale Robinson and Tyrone Tracy Jr. have looked recently.

28. Las Vegas Raiders (24)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Is this the ‘winning culture’ that Pete Carroll and Tom Brady were supposed to be bringing? Because right now, the only thing it looks like is that Brock Bowers and Ashton Jeanty will join Maxx Crosby among the young careers that the Las Vegas Raiders have cast a black cloud over. The Chip Kelly hiring has proven to be a disaster and it seems pretty evident this team needs a new coaching staff and offensive line.

29. Cleveland Browns (30)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Well, there’s Shedeur Sanders. He looked like the same quarterback from college, one who holds onto the football far too long but can do a few nice things. Not exactly the repertoire you want from a quarterback behind the Browns offensive line, but it’s better than what we’ve seen in previous weeks. He is different than Dillon Gabriel, so the Browns might as well try him out for a little while.

30. Washington Commanders (29)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

It’s reached that point for the Washington Commanders where the fan base views every game that passes as just one week closer to this season mercifully coming to an end. Similar to the Bengals’ situation, there’s zero point in bringing Jayden Daniels back in 2025. Washington’s roster needs a lot of work this offseason, and the injuries on both sides of the ball have only highlighted that.

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

David Butler II-Imagn Images

With each passing week, the New York Jets are that much closer to being put out of their misery. Thursday Night Football highlighted how much work must be done to overhaul this roster, fixing issues on both sides of the ball. New York’s plan, as of now, seems fairly simple: find a bridge quarterback for 2026 and use the offseason to fill some of the gaps on this roster. Take a step forward next season, then find a quarterback with those three first-round picks and ample cap space.

Related: New York Jets QB Options for 2026 Outside of the 2026 NFL Draft

32. Tennessee Titans (32)

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings

Denny Simmons / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

There’s really nothing left to say about the worst team in the NFL. The Tennessee Titans have absolutely nothing on offense to help Cam Ward. Truly, the only hope is that the effects of playing on this Titans offense as a rookie don’t carryover into 2026 and beyond.

Week 10

1. Seattle Seahawks (5)

NFL Week 11 Power Rankings

Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

The Seattle Seahawks have arguably the best defense in the NFL and the best offense in the NFL. What other club would belong atop the NFL power rankings after Week 10? Seattle completely dominated Arizona on Sunday afternoon, turning it into a first-half blowout before starting to take its foot off the brake. Now at 7-2 on the season, we’re going to get a fantastic battle for the NFC West next Sunday in Los Angeles.

2. New England Patriots (4)

NFL Week 11 Power Rankings

Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images

It took overtime to beat Atlanta, but this has been a season of chaos and the Indianapolis Colts absolutely have a resume worthy of a top spot in the NFL power rankings. Jonathan Taylor practically single-handedly carried the team to victory with over 200 yards and three touchdowns. The regression has arrived a bit for Daniel Jones, but he’s at least still making some nice throws and getting the football out to his playmakers. There’ll be a lot more pressure on his shoulders in the next two games versus Kansas City and Houston.

3. Los Angeles Rams (8)

NFL Week 11 Power Rankings

Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Rams would be 8-1 right now if not for their weird implosion in the TNF loss to San Francisco back on Oct. 2. Since then, they’ve dominated nearly every opponent put in front of them, with Matthew Stafford delivering MVP-caliber play and this Rams defense playing even better than it did during its best stretches last season. We still tend to believe that Seattle is much better defensively and is well-equipped to match up against the Rams, but Los Angeles could easily prove that wrong next week and take the top spot in the NFL power rankings.

4. Indianapolis Colts (3)

NFL Week 11 Power Rankings

Lisi Niesner/Reuters via Imagn Images

It took overtime to beat Atlanta, but this has been a season of chaos and the Indianapolis Colts absolutely have a résumé worthy of a top spot in the NFL power rankings. Jonathan Taylor practically single-handedly carried the team to victory with over 200 yards and three touchdowns. The regression has arrived a bit for Daniel Jones, but he’s at least still making some nice throws and getting the football out to his playmakers. There will be a lot more pressure on his shoulders in the next two games versus Kansas City and Houston.

NFL Week 11 Power Rankings

Tork Mason / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Philadelphia Eagles passing game certainly didn’t look fixed coming out of the bye on Monday Night Football. Fortunately, the Jaelan Phillips trade immediately paid off as this Eagles defense is starting to look like a top-five unit. We still have concerns about how Philadelphia will fair if a high-scoring game is necessary and that will be immediately put to the test on Sunday versus the Lions.

6. Detroit Lions (10)

NFL Week 11 Power Rankings

Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

There was never any doubt that Dan Campbell’s Detroit Lions would respond to that tough home loss a week ago by beating the proverbial dead horse that is the Commanders. Detroit took full advantage of a non-existent Commanders pass rush and did whatever it wanted in the trenches, total domination on both sides of the ball. Great teams should beat up on inferior opponents, and that’s precisely what we saw from the Lions on Sunday. After this get-right game, Detroit now gets a shot on Sunday Night Football in Philadelphia to prove it is one of the five best teams in the NFL.

7. Buffalo Bills (1)

NFL Week 11 Power Rankings

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

From a monumental win over the Chiefs to falling flat on their face in Miami: the 2025 Buffalo Bills, ladies and gentlemen. Buffalo returned to fielding the league’s worst run defense, surrendering 197 yards and 2 touchdowns to Miami. Fittingly, no one in the Bills receiving corps could really get separation, and the typically stout offensive line allowed 7 QB hits and 3 sacks. It’s a loss the 6-3 Bills couldn’t afford heading into a stretch of matchups against the Buccaneers, Texans, Steelers, Bengals, and Patriots. At this point, a wild-card berth might be Buffalo’s path to the playoffs.

8. Kansas City Chiefs (9)

NFL Week 11 Power Rankings

Tina MacIntyre-Yee/Democrat and Chronicle / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Kansas City Chiefs are a fascinating team at this point in the season. On the one hand, they’ve lost four times already this year, including a defeat at the hands of the Jaguars along with several clubs with winning records. However, they also beat Detroit with relative ease, and this offense has looked a lot different since Rashee Rice returned. The litmus test comes in the next two weeks, with Kansas City’s offense tested on the road in Baltimore, and then the Chiefs’ defense will be put to the test by the Colts in Week 12.

NFL Week 11 Power Rankings

Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Justin Herbert got hit a lot on Sunday Night Football, but the Los Angeles Chargers still pulled out a comfortable win thanks to a defensive clinic by Jesse Minter’s group. It also helps that even with Omarion Hampton out, Los Angeles can put the football in Kimani Vidal’s hands and run it effectively. Now at 7-3 on the year, the Chargers can dispatch Jacksonville in Week 11 before going into the bye with an 8-3 mark.

10. Denver Broncos (6)

NFL Week 11 Power Rankings

Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

It’s extraordinarily difficult to have any faith that the Denver Broncos are one of the best NFL teams right now. Defensively, this unit belongs on the field with Super Bowl contenders. Once the football is in Bo Nix’s hands, outside of a few miraculous fourth-quarter performances, confidence in this team evaporates. Nix isn’t improving in his second year; he’s regressing. There are no positive signs from him that he’s turning the corner, even in November. Since Sean Payton won’t fully commit to making this a run-first team, there’s added weight on Nix’s shoulders, and that’s a recipe for disaster.

111. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2)

NFL Week 11 Power Rankings

Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers fought back from a 21-10 deficit early in the third quarter, pulling it to within five and giving Baker Mayfield a chance to complete the comeback. Missing Bucky Irving, Mike Evans, and Chris Godwin, the Buccaneers’ offense simply couldn’t take advantage, and then TreVeyon Henderson sank the dagger into Tampa Bay’s hearts with his second 50-plus-yard touchdown run. The Buccaneers are now 3-3 since the last week of September and heading toward a two-game road slate against two of the best NFL teams right now (Bills and Rams). With reinforcements not coming anytime soon, there’s a chance Tampa Bay goes from 5-1 to 6-5 entering the final week of November.

12. Chicago Bears (15)

NFL Week 11 Power Rankings

Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears keep finding ways to win. That’s certainly not something we could’ve said about this club during the Matt Eberflus era. There’s plenty of room for criticism of this Bears defense and the fact that Chicago needed New York to play conservatively and then lose Jaxson Dart to injury for the win to come together, but that 6-3 matters. The Bears offense keeps demonstrating the ability to rally in key moments and that will be needed in Week 11 on the road versus the Vikings.

13. Baltimore Ravens (18)

NFL Week 11 Power Rankings

Brad Rempel-Imagn Images

The Baltimore Ravens won a game because of their defense. That’s not something anyone expected a month ago when Baltimore statistically had the worst defense in football with a 1-5 record entering its bye. Since then, the Ravens are riding a three-game winning streak with a defense that has allowed just 13.6 points per game in that span. With two upcoming matchups against the Browns and Jets, it’s hard to see any reason why this version of Baltimore won’t be 6-5 when it faces the Bengals on Thanksgiving.

14. Green Bay Packers (12)

NFL Week 11 Power Rankings

Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Matt LaFleur’s offense certainly seems entirely dependent on Tucker Kraft and the occasional bail-out big play on a downfield throw by Jordan Love. With Kraft lost for the season, LaFleur’s short-comings as a play-caller have become increasingly evident. Given all the draft capital and money invested into this Packers roster this season, there might now be reason to question if LaFleur is the right coach for the Packers.

15. Pittsburgh Steelers (13)

NFL Week 11 Power Rankings

Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers had a 4-1 record with a massive lead over the reeling Ravens entering the third week of October. Baltimore now only trails Pittsburgh by one game in the AFC North. The Steelers gave up control of their destiny and with a slate of games in the next four weeks that includes the bears, Bills and Ravens, Pittsburgh could drop under .500 quickly.

16. Houston Texans (19)

Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

A massive win for the Houston Texans without C.J. Stroud. Trailing by 19 points entering the fourth quarter, Houston stared a 3-6 record in the face with its playoff hopes dwindling by the second. A methodical 13-play touchdown drive brought life, and then the defense got a big stop. Once more, Davis Mills delivered a touchdown drive to make it a five-point game. The Texans’ defense delivered another three-and-out, and that set up the go-ahead touchdown drive, covering 93 yards on 14 plays in just under six minutes. The difference between 3-6 and 4-5 is massive, especially ahead of next week’s very winnable game in Tennessee with Stroud likely returning from a concussion.

17. San Francisco 49ers (13)

Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

With the Rams not giving the game away this time around, the San Francisco 49ers stood no real chance on Sunday. Injuries have once again taken a heavy toll on this 49ers roster, playing a significant role in the team going from 4-1 after facing Los Angeles the first time this season to now 6-4 after the Rams got their revenge. We’re not ruling out Arizona beating the 49ers next week, though; getting Brock Purdy back would help. The real problem, of course, is what’s left of San Francisco’s defense after so many season-ending injuries.

18. Carolina Panthers (16)

Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

This is what happens when an opponent forces the Carolina Panthers to beat them with Bryce Young. New Orleans threw everything it had at stopping Rico Dowdle on Sunday, seeing what Young could do. The former first overall pick finished with 102 net passing yards on 25 attempts, taking two sacks and turning it over twice in a 10-point home loss. Carolina is a better team than it was last season, but it can’t take that real step forward until it finds a viable starting quarterback who can carry a lot more weight in the offense.

19. Minnesota Vikings (17)

Brad Rempel-Imagn Images

The Minnesota Vikings offense opened the game with a seven-play, 86-yard touchdown drive. They generated 370 total yards and 12 points on their next 12 drives. There really seems to be an issue with this unit when it comes to maintaining efficiency the further removed they get from the scripted opening series. Given Chicago’s tendency for fourth-quarter comebacks this season, we wouldn’t be surprised if Minnesota takes an early double-digit lead at home next Sunday and the Bears rally for a win.\

20. Atlanta Falcons (22)

Lisi Niesner/Reuters via Imagn Images

There was no moral victory in the Week 11 defeat overseas, but the Atlanta Falcons did take one of the best NFL teams to overtime. Atlanta’s run game and Drake London are as good as ever, and it’s nice to see Zac Robinson get Bijan Robinson a little more involved. Unfortunately, the defense has started to regress considerably in recent weeks, and that, paired with pedestrian quarterback play, creates a 3-6 record.

Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

The Jacksonville Jaguars are the same as they’ve always been. Wins certainly aren’t entirely a quarterback stat, but the fact that Trevor Lawrence is now 1-3 when facing a Davis Mills-led team is a damaging indictment on one of the league’s highest-paid quarterbacks. Of course, it doesn’t help either that the once-explosive and effective Jaguars rushing attack has stalled. It’s hard to believe this team was 4-1 a month ago and coming off a win over the Chiefs. Five weeks later, Jacksonville has a 1-3 record in its last four games, and it would be without a win if Las Vegas didn’t gamble on the game-winning two-point conversion attempt in OT.

22. Arizona Cardinals (21)

Kevin Ng-Imagn Images

At least the Arizona Cardinals were put out of their misery early on Sunday. The ugly loss in Seattle doesn’t change the fact that Jacoby Brissett is the right option to be the Cardinals’ starting quarterback in the weeks to come. Against a worse defense, like San Francisco’s in Week 11, we think this Cardinals offense will look a lot better and give the team a shot at a win.

23. Dallas Cowboys (23)

Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Jerry Jones made the big splash at the NFL trade deadline, but acquiring Quinnen Williams likely won’t be quite enough to salvage this defense in 2025 and pull out of a 3-5-1 record. That’s what makes the gamble next season fascinating. Williams will pair up with a healthy DeMarvion Overshown with edge rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku poised for improvement in his second season. We don’t view Dallas as a playoff contender moving forward this season, but this team just became a lot more intriguing for 2026.

24. Miami Dolphins (28)

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Credit where it’s due, the Miami Dolphins looked like the better team at home on Sunday versus Buffalo. The standout, of course, is running back De’Von Achane (225 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns), who delivered the explosive runs that really seemed to bury the Bills in key moments. Miami is still four games below .500, but it does have two blowout wins over the Falcons and Bills in the last three weeks.

25. Cincinnati Bengals (25)

Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

The frustration from the likes of Ja’Marr Chase and Chase Brown with this Cincinnati Bengals defense is justified. For two years, one of the NFL’s highest-scoring offenses has had a losing record because the defense gives out points like they are candy at Halloween. It’s the end result of both bad drafting and, quite frankly, the insistence from Joe Burrow on paying Chase, Tee Higgins and Mike Gesicki. Cincinnati doesn’t draft or develop talent well enough on the defensive side to spend so much money on offensive skill players. Given ownership and the front office aren’t changing, it’s hard to see where improvement comes from even next year.

26. New Orleans Saints (29)

Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

You’ve got to hand it to first-year head coach Kellen Moore, who has helped both his quarterbacks (Spencer Rattler and Tyler Shough) look fairly good this season as starters. The New Orleans Saints also have to feel great about the decision to keep Chris Olave past the NFL trade deadline, and he should be in line for a contract extension this offseason.

27. Las Vegas Raiders (26)

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Losing on Thursday Night Football to Denver certainly isn’t surprising for the Las Vegas Raiders. What is underwhelming, though, is the continued ineffectiveness of Ashton Jeanty behind this offensive line and play-caller Chip Kelly generating just two touches for All-Pro tight end Brock Bowers. For comparison, Bowers had three fewer touches than Tyler Lockett. Now at 2-7, Las Vegas has to get ready to host a Cowboys offense that will be far better equipped to exploit this defense. Although, Bowers and Jeanty should do well versus the Cowboys defense on Monday Night Football.

28. New York Giants (27)

Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

If ownership needs a further push to move on from Brian Daboll, look no further than what happened in the New York Giants game on Sunday. On 4th-and-goal from the 1-yard line with a touchdown lead, Brian Daboll opted for a 19-yard field goal and then declined a Too Many Men on the Field penalty that would’ve made it 4th-and-goal from the half-yard line. Inexcusable for a two-win team.

29. Washington Commanders (24)

Peter Casey-Imagn Images

The next few weeks without Jayden Daniels should be an evaluation period of Dan Quinn for the Washington Commanders front office. Quinn’s defense has been abysmal this season, and while injuries play a part in that, he also holds some responsibility for the injury Daniels suffered a week ago. If the Commanders perform in the next few games like they did against Detroit, perhaps Quinn shouldn’t be the head coach long-term.

Julian Leshay Guadalupe/NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Dillon Gabriel simply isn’t a starting-caliber quarterback. Even if you take out the 6 sacks, which put him at 167 net passing yards, he finished Sunday’s game averaging 5.2 yards per attempt. He’s now eclipsed 5.5 ypa just once since taking over. If Shedeur Sanders truly isn’t ready to start in the NFL in the mind of the coaching staff, that says everything about the organization’s decision to draft both quarterbacks.

31. New York Jets (31)

Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

There’s selling at the NFL trade deadline, and then there’s what the New York Jets did. Utterly blowing up the defense by moving Quinnen Williams and Sauce Gardner sets that unit back multiple seasons and pushes the rebuild timeline back a year. However, it was also the right move. All of the 2026 draft capital can be used to start filling out this roster, creating a better supporting cast for a quarterback from the 2027 NFL Draft to walk into. It’s early, but we do believe right now that the Jets front office is taking the right approach to rebuilding this roster. As for Sunday’s win, we probably won’t see back-to-back kickoff and punt return touchdowns for a long time.

32. Tennessee Titans (32)

Denny Simmons / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Tennessee Titans couldn’t follow the Jets’ teardown model because the franchise wanted to keep key players Jeffery Simmons and T’Vondre Sweat. The current Titans roster prominently features Simmons, Sweat, quarterback Cam Ward, and very limited additional talent. This situation makes it difficult to have strong confidence in the franchise’s long-term vision as of now. While there is potential to improve during the offseason, that period is still months away, and the team faces the prospect of more struggles on the field in the meantime.1. Seattle Seahawks (5)

Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

2. New England Patriots (4)

Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images

3. Los Angeles Rams (8)

Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

4. Indianapolis Colts (3)

Lisi Niesner/Reuters via Imagn Images

5. Philadelphia Eagles (7)

Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

After losing to the Broncos and Giants in October, we wanted to see the Philadelphia Eagles work their way back up the NFL power rankings by returning to what made this team great in 2024. While it’s evident now the team isn’t returning to those heights, Philadelphia’s last two wins before the bye week showed different glimpses of what this offense can be. Now, drawing a Monday Night Football matchup versus a Packers defense that is weak at cornerback and thin on the interior, this Monday Night Football matchup can be the moment where this Eagles offense explodes both through the air and on the ground.

6. Detroit Lions (10)

Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

7. Buffalo Bills (1)

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

8. Kansas City Chiefs (9)

Tina MacIntyre-Yee/Democrat and Chronicle / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

9. Denver Broncos (6)

Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2)

Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images

11. Green Bay Packers (12)

Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Tucker Kraft’s season-ending injury takes the stabilizing force out of the Green Bay Packers offense. The run game is inconsistent and the passing attack, outside of Kraft, is dependent on big plays downfield. With Kraft out of the equation and a defense that is both weak on the interior and at cornerback, it certainly feels like the Packers will get exposed versus the Eagles on Monday Night Football and the downward spiral may continue on from there.

12. Los Angeles Chargers (11)

Denny Simmons / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

A Los Angeles Chargers offensive line without Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater makes this offense non-functional. It was evident in the three games where Alt was sidelined (high-ankle sprain) earlier this season and we fear that we’ll see the same thing on Sunday Night Football versus Pittsburgh. If anyone can find a way to salvage this offense, it would be Jim Harbaugh and Justin Herbert. For now, though, we don’t have confidence in Los Angeles salvaging this season given the injuries.

13. Pittsburgh Steelers (14)

Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Can the Pittsburgh Steelers stave off the Ravens? That’s the big question moving into the second half of the season, and this defense will likely dictate the answer. A Sunday Night Football matchup against the Chargers’ backup offensive line certainly works in Pittsburgh’s favor, and Aaron Rodgers can make a few good moves in a chess match versus Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter. If Pittsburgh loses this game and drops to 5-4, though, it’ll be time to view Baltimore as the team to beat in the AFC North.

14. Chicago Bears (15)

Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

15. Baltimore Ravens (18)

Brad Rempel-Imagn Images

16. Houston Texans (19)

Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

17. San Francisco 49ers (13)

Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

18. Carolina Panthers (16)

Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

19. Minnesota Vikings (17)

Brad Rempel-Imagn Images

20. Atlanta Falcons (22)

Lisi Niesner/Reuters via Imagn Images

Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

22. Arizona Cardinals (21)

Kevin Ng-Imagn Images

23. Dallas Cowboys (23)

Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

24. Miami Dolphins (28)

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

25. Cincinnati Bengals (25)

Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

26. New Orleans Saints (29)

Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

27. Las Vegas Raiders (26)

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

28. New York Giants (27)

Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

29. Washington Commanders (24)

Peter Casey-Imagn Images

Julian Leshay Guadalupe/NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

31. New York Jets (31)

Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

32. Tennessee Titans (32)

Denny Simmons / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Week 9

1. Buffalo Bills (7)

Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

Just an excellent performance by the Buffalo Bills on Sunday. James Cook continues to perform like an All-Pro this season, and Josh Allen was nearly perfect through the air. But what really stood out today was how well this defense performed against an offense that looked unstoppable coming into Week 9. We know Buffalo’s history versus Kansas City in the regular season versus playoffs; that doesn’t matter right now. What does matter is that the Bills looked like the best team in the NFL for the first time since September.

2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6)

Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

Health is everything for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as they return from the Week 9 bye. Baker Mayfield needs Bucky Irving and Chris Godwin back, especially given what lies ahead on this Buccaneers’ schedule. These matchups against the Patriots, Bills, and Rams will put the Buccaneers’ defense and offensive line to the test. A 1-2 record during this three-game stretch is well within reason, which could make that 6-2 record amid all the previous injuries even more crucial.

Related: NFL Trade Deadline Predictions including a Buccaneers’ Deal

3. Indianapolis Colts (1)

Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Halloween is over, but the nightmare version of Daniel Jones came out in Week 9 against the Steelers. The Indianapolis Colts lost their second game of the season because of it. Indianapolis performed really well defensively and it was still a one-score game even with Jonathan Taylor (45 rushing yards) shut down. It was just those four turnovers by Jones, turned into 24 points for the Steelers, that proved so costly. Four turnovers is fluky, but Jones turning back into pumpkin again could prove costly in the coming weeks versus Atlanta, Kansas City, and Houston.

4. New England Patriots (11)

Eric Canha-Imagn Images

Week 9 was chaotic, and the New England Patriots were one of the few teams to survive it. Drake Maye was sacked six times on Sunday and has now taken 12 sacks over the last two games, but three first-half touchdowns were enough in Foxborough to beat the Falcons. New England should come out of this one feeling like if it can clean up the mistakes—two takeaways turned into 10 points—it can challenge for the No. 2 seed in the AFC.

5. Seattle Seahawks (6)

Amber Searls-Imagn Images

This is who the Seattle Seahawks are now. They certainly won’t win blowouts every week, but this is a team with an elite defense and an offense capable of putting up 28-plus points on any given week. Sam Darnold is thriving behind a much-improved offensive line, Seattle’s run game is getting better and Torry Horton could be emerging as a No. 2 receiver. This is the team to beat in the NFC West.

Read More: NFL Trades We’d Like to See, including the Seahawks

6. Denver Broncos (8)

Thomas Shea-Imagn Images

Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos just find ways to win. Missing reigning DPOY Pat Surtain, Denver again found itself facing a fourth-quarter deficit. Of course, Mr. Fourth Quarter delivered again. Maybe that game shouldn’t have been as close as it was, given CJ Stroud left early with a concussion, but the Broncos salvaged a victory on Sunday, and that’s never a given in the NFL as teams like the Colts and Packers demonstrated.

7. Philadelphia Eagles (9)

Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

We’re a tad bit lower on the Philadelphia Eagles than the consensus NFL power rankings entering Week 10, but that can change in a hurry. The bye week came at a good time, allowing A.J. Brown and the Eagles’ offensive line to get healthy. If Philadelphia’s front five can hold up, Brown and Saquon Barkley could be critical to humbling the Packers on Monday Night Football in Week 10.

8. Los Angeles Rams (10)

Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Rams won convincingly on Sunday over New Orleans, but there has to be a bit of concern following the Puka Nacua injury. If it is not serious, it is time to talk about Matthew Stafford as a top-two candidate for NFL MVP. Los Angeles is rolling right now, and Sean McVay’s club now has a shot at revenge in San Francisco versus Kyle Shanahan.

9. Kansas City Chiefs (2)

Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

Both the Kansas City Chiefs offensive line and defense came crashing back down to earth on Sunday. Patrick Mahomes was under duress far too much, and Kansas City’s defense was picked apart by Josh Allen, all the while James Cook seemingly turned every carry into a chunk of yards. The Chiefs still looked like one of the best NFL teams, but they also have four losses on the season and still have looming matchups against the Colts and Broncos (twice). All of that is to say Kansas City will be playing at least one road game in the playoffs.

Related: Kansas City Chiefs ‘Drilling Down’ on Position Target Before NFL Trade Deadline

10. Detroit Lions (4)

David Reginek-Imagn Images

Sunday was a particularly painful loss for the Detroit Lions, given what happened at Lambeau Field on Sunday. Detroit’s offensive line was certainly an issue versus Minnesota, and it could get even worse given the injuries suffered on the interior. However, it was really the special-teams woes that ultimately swung this 27-24 game in the Vikings’ favor. Given how well-coached Detroit is, we expect the team to recover immediately next week against the reeling Commanders.

11. Los Angeles Chargers (12)

Denny Simmons / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

We’ll start with the good for the Los Angeles Chargers. In a game where they gave up a pick-six and a punt return touchdown, they still won on the road after making a cross-country trip to Tennessee for an early game. Unfortunately, left tackle Joe Alt was carted off the field with an ankle injury in Week 9 and didn’t return. The Chargers’ offensive line without Alt is abysmal, and that could prove very poor timing with matchups against the Steelers and Jaguars looming before the Week 12 bye.

12. Green Bay Packers (3)

Dan Powers-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images

Everything that could go wrong for the Green Bay Packers in Week 10 did. Brandon McManus missed a field goal, Savion Williams fumbled in the red zone, Tucker Kraft suffered a significant knee injury, and Jordan Love’s questionable decision-making with the football returned. Oh, Green Bay also repeatedly shot itself in the foot with penalties and red-zone ineffectiveness (1-for-5). The Packers just seem to have a penchant for playing at their opponent’s level, so we’ll just have to see what’s in store for a Monday Night Football matchup versus the Eagles.

13. San Francisco 49ers (13)

Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images

Feed Christian McCaffrey—that was what the San Francisco 49ers needed to do on Sunday to win at MetLife Stadium. Mission accomplished. CMC turned 33 touches into 173 scrimmage yards and 2 touchdowns, carrying San Francisco to a 10-point victory over the Giants. The 49ers don’t necessarily look like an impressive six-win team, but being three games above .500 is quite remarkable given all the injuries.

14. Pittsburgh Steelers (17)

Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Where has this version of the Pittsburgh Steelers defense been? Against a historically great offense, Pittsburgh generated six takeaways and turned them into 24 points. Aaron Rodgers and Co. didn’t play particularly well in this one, but it didn’t matter because Pittsburgh put on a defensive clinic. What we’ve seen from this unit over the first two months of the season suggests regression will happen, but that was a monumental win for the Steelers (5-3) ahead of another tough matchup against the Chargers.

15. Chicago Bears (15)

Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Snatching defeat from the jaws of victory and then reaching in at the last second to snag the win, that is what the Chicago Bears did in Week 9. Chicago led Cincinnati 41-27 with 2:24 left, and Caleb Williams next took the field trailing 42-21 with 54 seconds left. Thankfully for him, rookie tight end Colston Loveland delivered the game-winning touchdown that could be his breakout moment in the NFL. It was too close for comfort, and the Bears’ defense is a mess, but Chicago comes out of it with a 5-3 record and a chance at its sixth win if it can handle its business at home in Week 10 versus the Giants.

16. Carolina Panthers (21)

Dan Powers-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images

Look at what happens when Dave Canales makes Rico Dowdle the centerpiece of the Carolina Panthers offense. We also have to acknowledge the fine work done by this Panthers defense on Sunday at Lambeau Field, recording two critical takeaways and holding Green Bay to 1-for-5 in the red zone. This is a great recovery after the Buffalo game, and Carolina now has a shot at its sixth win of the season in early November. Who saw that coming after the 1-3 start?

17. Minnesota Vikings (24)

Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

For the Minnesota Vikings playoff hopes to remain alive, they desperately needed a big win against a top-flight opponent. All three sides of the ball proved instrumental in Sunday’s stunning win in Detroit. J.J. McCarthy was outstanding in the first half, Aaron Jones had a big game, big plays on special teams generated points, and Brian Flores’ defense got back on track. While a 4-4 record still leaves something to be desired, the arrow is pointing up on the Vikings as they head into a Week 10 fight at home versus Baltimore.

18. Baltimore Ravens (20)

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Here come the Baltimore Ravens. Lamar Jackson returns and this offense, for the most part, fires on all cylinders and the defense is playing relatively well with Roquan Smith back on the field. Health coming out of the bye week has helped deliver two consecutive wins for Baltimore, all at a time when the Steelers are struggling. If the Ravens can go into Minnesota and win in Week 10, this might be the new favorite in the AFC North moving forward.

19. Houston Texans (13)

Thomas Shea-Imagn Images

The C.J. Stroud concussion wiped out whatever chance the Houston Texans had of taking out Denver in Week 9. Houston’s defense held on for as long as it could, but that unit was bound to break eventually since the Texans’ offense had five three-and-outs after taking a 15-7 lead. If Stroud doesn’t clear the concussion protocol this week, Houston will be staring down a 3-6 record.

20. Jacksonville Jaguars (16)

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

That version of the Jacksonville Jaguars that started the season 4-1 with victories over the 49ers and Chiefs is long gone. There are plenty of reasons for the regression, including this defense’s historic takeaway rate plummeting back to normal. However, the holes on this offense have also become evident, and Trevor Lawrence is demonstrating that he’s simply never going to recapture the form we saw a few seasons ago. Going to OT against the Raiders is unacceptable; Jacksonville looks like a mediocre football team.

21. Arizona Cardinals (23)

Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Marvin Harrison Jr. is establishing himself as a true No.1 wide receiver and the Arizona Cardinals held onto a fourth-quarter lead. Those are the two biggest developments for Arizona coming out of Monday Night Football. Now, Kyler Murray is poised to return to the starting lineup and the Cardinals offense has looked worse with him under center. Maybe, though, Arizona just figured out its passing game and Murray can keep this going. We’re not optimistic, especially since its a matchup against the Seahawks defense.

22. Atlanta Falcons (22)

Eric Canha-Imagn Images

Keeping it close on the road against the Patriots is nice, but the end result is still a 3-5 record for the Atlanta Falcons. The team’s outlook seemed promising after beating Buffalo on Monday Night Football, but the Falcons are now riding a three-game losing streak and set to face an Indianapolis team that will be looking to rebound after a stunning Week 9 loss. It suddenly feels like this could be a 10-loss team by the time the season ends, given there are still matchups versus the Seahawks, Buccaneers, and Rams, too.

23. Dallas Cowboys (18)

Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Fumbles likely cost the Dallas Cowboys two scoring drives on Monday night, but it wouldn’t have mattered because this defense would’ve just given up the game-winning points. Trading for Logan Wilson and whoever else Jerry Jones thinks will help won’t move the needle, not even close. This team is everything the Bengals were in 2024.

24. Washington Commanders (19)

Amber Searls-Imagn Images

There will be discourse about whether or not Jayden Daniels should’ve been playing in that moment, but that shouldn’t be the real discussion. The Washington Commanders roster is bad, injuries play a part of that, but years of poor drafting are the biggest reason why. This is also the oldest roster in the NFL. It might be in the Commanders’ best long-term interest to be a seller at the NFL trade deadline and start prioritizing the 2026 NFL Draft.

25. Cincinnati Bengals (25)

Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images

The Cincinnati Bengals won’t trade Trey Hendrickson because that is how this defense looks when he isn’t on the field. That is a bigger indictment on the ‘talent’ assembled by the Bengals front office, but the end result is that this team is a worse version of what fans saw last year. If the losses keep piling up, it is fair to wonder if the Bengals eventually consider just shutting Joe Burrow down for the season because he does not need to return to this.

26. Las Vegas Raiders (29)

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Brock Bowers returns and Geno Smith delivers a season-best performance, looking like an above-average starting quarterback. How about that. Las Vegas clearly doesn’t have the offensive line nor the defense to beat the Broncos or Cowboys in the next two weeks, but at least a Bowers-led Raiders offense looks capable of winning two more gmaes this season.

27. New York Giants (27)

Julian Leshay Guadalupe/NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

This is the new normal for the New York Giants offense. Even against an injury-decimated 49ers defnese that struggles mightily to rush the passer, New York finished under 300 total yards on Sunday and much of the damage came after San Francisco had a 17-point lead in the fourth quarter. The hope is just gone with this team and the only desire now should be for Jaxson Dart to stay healthy and steadily make improvements.

28. Miami Dolphins (26)

Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

The true victory for the Miami Dolphins in Week 9 is the firing of general manager Chris Grier. He is responsible for constructing one of the league’s worst rosters, and that is the biggest reason why this team has fallen off so drastically in the last two years. A head-coaching change and new quarterback still feel necessary, but the biggest step has finally been taken.

29. New Orleans Saints (26)

Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

While we understand that the New Orleans Saints want to use the rest of the season to evaluate Tyler Shough, it would still be in the team’s best interest to be a fairly aggressive seller atthe NFL trade deadline. Move on from Rashid Shaheed, Brandin Cooks, Alontae Taylor and Carl Granderson. This roster needs to be reloaded and trading away contributors now will give the front office a better shot at rebuilding the roster.

30. Cleveland Browns (30)

Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images

We can see the rationale in the Cleveland Browns not trading Myles Garrett, given he chose to stay with the franchise this offseason for the money. What we don’t understand is the franchise’s commitment to Dillon Gabriel, who hasn’t looked like an NFL-caliber starting quarterback since taking the field. If Shedeur Sanders isn’t any closer to making his first NFL start after Week 9, that is a further indictment of the Browns’ entire organization.

31. New York Jets (31)

Kevin R. Wexler-NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Can that first victory of the season serve as some sort of springboard for Aaron Glenn’s New York Jets? They’ve shown some fight this season versus Denver and Tampa Bay, losing by 4 total points, but that elusive first win is now in the books. Selling at the NFL trade deadline is still the right call for the Jets, but there’s reason to hold out hope for 3-4 more wins over the rest of the season.

32. Tennessee Titans (32)

Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

The Tennessee Titans won’t win many games if they continue to lose control like they did in their recent matchup. Despite grabbing an unlikely victory against the Cardinals on a last-minute field goal, the broader trend is concerning. As of now, they sit at a 1-7 record, with the season still far from over. That catch-up effort against Arizona was a bright spot, but the overall performance this season suggests a team that is still mired in rebuild mode and struggling with consistency, talent, and injuries.

Week 8

1. Indianapolis Colts (1)

Robert Goddin-Imagn Images

The Indianapolis Colts have the best record in the NFL right now, which warrants the top spot in the power rankings entering Week 9. Indianapolis’ résumé—with signature wins over the Chargers and Broncos—paired with the preseason skepticism surrounding this team, explains why some remain cautious about buying in. What Shane Steichen and company keep demonstrating, however, is that they can dominate weaker competition and rise to the level of tougher opponents. Sunday’s win was the latest example of that. Given the Colts’ strengths, they should go into Pittsburgh next week and beat Aaron Rodgers.

2. Kansas City Chiefs (2)

Denny Medley-Imagn Images

The Kansas City Chiefs‘ dominance continues. If they hadn’t taken their foot off the break on Monday Night Football, it would’ve been three consecutive games with 30-plus points scored. Still, Kansas City has to feel great about the 21-0 second half. This is still a three-loss team, including that painful MNF loss to Jacksonville in Week 5. As long as Patrick Mahomes and Rashee Rice keep doing this, though, Kansas City can win every single game remaining on its schedule and be the overwhelming favorite to win the Super Bowl.

3. Green Bay Packers (6)

Michael Longo / For USA Today Network / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Jordan Love has made that ascension into the next tier of top quarterbacks, and it couldn’t have come at a better time for the Green Bay Packers. The play-calling and offensive line aren’t where they need to be right now, which is playing some part in this unit’s penchant for three-and-outs mixed between explosive plays. Fortunately for Matt LaFleur, he has time to figure those issues out because Love and this Packers defense are playing at a top level.

4. Detroit Lions (2)

Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Coming out of the Week 8 bye, the Detroit Lions are starting to get healthier defensively. The time off also provides offensive coordinator John Morton and defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard an opportunity to make adjustments, learning from their first seven games as play-callers to better position their units moving forward. At 5-2, fielding one of the best rosters in the NFL, Detroit can quickly demonstrate in the second half of the season that it’s the team to beat in the NFC.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4)

Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

Survival. That’s all Week 8 needed to be about for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The offense has been devastated by injuries and desperately needs some time off. So, while Baker Mayfield’s MVP campaign is taking some big hits, the Buccaneers’ defense is rising to the occasion. Excellent defense is what the Buccaneers didn’t have last season. If they can return from the Week 9 bye with the offensive line in better shape and both Chris Godwin and Bucky Irving returning to the field, that 6-2 record will feel even better.

6. Seattle Seahawks (5)

Kevin Ng-Imagn Images

The Seattle Seahawks have a Super Bowl-caliber defense, especially once Devon Witherspoon and Julian Love return to the secondary. One unit that’s really flying under the radar, though, is Seattle’s offensive line. Heading into the Week 8 bye, the Seahawks ranked 21st in ESPN pass-block win rate (58 percent) and 12th in run-block win rate (72 percent). Last year, they were in the bottom 10. That’s been one of the biggest keys to Sam Darnold playing so well this season. Now, as Seattle heads into a Week 9 matchup versus Washington, the next objective is finding a way to run the football more effectively (26th in Rush Success Rate), which should help improve an offense that entered the bye with the fifth-lowest third-down conversion rate in the NFL.

7. Buffalo Bills (7)

Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

That’s something much closer to the version of the Buffalo Bills that Bills Mafia expected this season. James Cook shouldered the load for this offense early, proving instrumental in Buffalo taking a 26-3 lead. That forced Carolina to go away from the one thing it can do well, run the football, and that was all she wrote in this one-sided blowout. It’s the kind of confidence builder Buffalo needs before facing the Chiefs, especially given how dominant Kansas City has looked lately.

8. Denver Broncos (9)

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

After throwing a pick on the opening drive, Bo Nix and this Denver Broncos offense locked in, and the rest is history. Considering how dominant the Cowboys’ offense had been until now, Sunday’s win over the Cowboys felt like the most well-rounded performance by the Broncos all season. If Nix and Denver’s ground game can maintain anything close to the effectiveness we’ve seen in the last five quarters, this could become the second-best team in the AFC. That said, we’re at least a month away from buying into Nix at that level.

9. Philadelphia Eagles (10)

Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

That’s a good note for the Philadelphia Eagles to enter the bye week on. Saquon Barkley (174 scrimmage yards) got going again, and Jalen Hurts had nearly as many touchdowns (four) as incompletions. Nick Sirianni has to feel particularly good about how the run game looked. Carryover will be necessary after the bye, given the upcoming stretch includes matchups at Green Bay, versus Detroit, and at Dallas.

10. Los Angeles Rams (8)

Andrew Boyers-Reuters via Imagn Images

Special-teams woes and some mistakes are the reason why the Los Angeles Rams entered their bye with a 5-2 record instead of an undefeated mark. Still, Sean McVay and Les Snead have to feel great about this team sitting near the top of the NFC West given the injuries suffered by Puka Nacua, Rob Havenstein and Ahkello Witherspoon. Los Angeles is one of the most well-rounded teams in the NFL right now, boasting a top-10 defense and offense. We’ll find out quickly just where the Rams rank among the top NFC teams, as they face the 49ers, Seahawks and Buccaneers in November.

11. New England Patriots (11)

Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

Drake Maye had one thing left to prove nationally entering Week 9: could he maintain that All-Pro-level play against a top-shelf defense? He proved he could do just that on Sunday. Equally meaningful for the New England Patriots, TreVeyon Henderson’s breakout game has arrived. This five-game win streak has provided a litany of reasons why New England looks like a very good team right now — and one that’s legitimately capable of winning 11 games.

12. Los Angeles Chargers (15)

Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Moving the Los Angeles Chargers up this many spots in our NFL power rankings is more about the return of Joe Alt than the Thursday Night Football victory over Minnesota. As that game demonstrated, though, getting the standout blindside protector back on the field actually gives Justin Herbert time to throw to this excellent cast of weapons, and it helps out the run game. Plus, the Chargers’ defense seems to be getting back on track. Los Angeles has three very winnable games (at Titans, vs. Steelers, and at Jaguars) ahead, so there is a path to an 8-3 record entering the bye week.

13. Houston Texans (21)

Sean Thomas-Imagn Images

Winning that game without Nico Collins feels monumental for the Houston Texans. C.J. Stroud certainly benefited from the fact that the 49ers’ front seven has been decimated by injuries, but he still played extremely well on Sunday against a game plan from one of the league’s top defensive coordinators. Houston is now 3-1 in its last four games and if it can win at home next week versus Denver, this is a playoff contender again.

14. San Francisco 49ers (13)

Sean Thomas-Imagn Images

A week later, it feels like that victory over Atlanta says a lot more about the Falcons than it does the San Francisco 49ers. This looked like an injury-plagued team on Sunday in Houston and the issues up front, resulting in a non-existent run game, reared their ugly head again for San Francisco. There’s still a 5-3 record, but there are still some tough matchups remaining on the schedule and the defense is clearly regressing.

15. Chicago Bears (14)

Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

The Chicago Bears have no one but themselves to blame for Sunday’s loss. Poor decision-making before halftime cost Chicago points, and the situational play didn’t get any better with a chance to win the game in the closing seconds, as Caleb Williams came up inches short on his goal-line dive and then threw way off the mark on fourth-and-goal to lose the game. With the way this Bears defense is performing and the inconsistency of this offense in the first year of the Caleb Williams–Ben Johnson pairing, there’s an outside shot Chicago loses next week to the Bengals.

16. Jacksonville Jaguars (18)

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

It’s not hard to see what went wrong for the Jacksonville Jaguars during their two-game losing streak before the bye. The defense couldn’t generate takeaways after recording 14 in its first five games , and the offensive line allowed 14 sacks while the rushing attack mustered just 76.5 rushing yards per game. Those takeaways had masked other issues — drops and inconsistency from Trevor Lawrence — that are now glaring. If those areas don’t improve quickly coming out of the bye, Jacksonville could lose three of its next four games.

17. Pittsburgh Steelers (13)

Michael Longo / For USA Today Network / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers finally have above-average quarterback play and it’s not going to matter. There’s a real possibility of this Steelers defense being bad enough to allow the Baltimore Ravens to steal the AFC North with a second-half revival. It’s a shame for Aaron Rodgers, because he’s played very well this season and is making this passing game work despite only having one true reliable wide receiver. With a looming matchup versus Indianapolis in Week 9, the Steelers will likely at .500 next Sunday.

18. Dallas Cowboys (16)

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Dak Prescott and this Dallas Cowboys offense need to be near-flawless to overcome the defense. They were nothing close to that on Sunday. There’s every reason to believe this passing attack will rebound quickly, especially next week on Monday Night Football versus Arizona. However, no matter who Jerry Jones acquires at the NFL trade deadline, this defense won’t be good enough to make the playoffs.

19. Washington Commanders (19)

Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

The lone bright spot that could’ve come out of that ugly Monday Night Football loss for the Washington Commanders, Terry McLaurin’s return, was wiped out by the Pro Bowl wideout exiting again with a quad injury. Jayden Daniels could return in Week 9, but the Commanders are now two games below .500 and entering a two-game stretch that will almost certainly result in a 3-7 record. Realistically, Washington will be 4-7 entering its bye week.

20. Baltimore Ravens (26)

Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

The Baltimore Ravens might finally be turning a corner, which is very unfortuante for the rest of the AFC North. It wasn’t a banner performance by any means, but a victory without Lamar Jackson against Chicago is a significant step forward.

21. Carolina Panthers (20)

Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

The only path to victory for the Carolina Panthers in Week 8 was stopping the run and getting a big game from Rico Dowdle. James Cook put up 200 rushing yards in three quarters, and Carolina found itself down three scores quickly. Sunday was a game that put the Panthers back in their place as a league-average team that can win when things are going right. That doesn’t bode well for a Week 9 matchup at Lambeau Field.

22. Atlanta Falcons (17)

Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

We’re going to need an explanation from Zac Robinson on why the Atlanta Falcons abandoned the run game so early. Facing one of the league’s worst defenses, Atlanta put the ball far too much in Kirk Cousins’ hands when it was still a close game. Unsurprisingly, especially with Drake London out, he looked just as bad as he did last season. Of course, it’s also worth recognizing how bad the Falcons’ offensive line has been over the last two games — going from beating the Commanders and Bills to dropping games against San Francisco and Miami. It’ll only get worse from here with the Patriots and Colts up next.

23. Arizona Cardinals (25)

Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

The Arizona Cardinals have a -1 point differential this season, better than multiple four-win teams (Bears, Panthers, Jaguars, and Chargers) and just behind the five-win 49ers and Eagles. Remarkably, Arizona has outscored its opponents by 44 points through the first three quarters of games but has been outscored by 45 points in the fourth. This is a good team that implodes in the final 15 minutes. Given that Kyler Murray will return as the starter in Week 9, even though Jacoby Brissett has been more effective so far, it’s hard to see significant improvement coming for the Cardinals.

24. Minnesota Vikings (23)

Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

It’s now beyond time to panic with the Minnesota Vikings. The bye week is already behind them, and it’s pretty evident, seven games into the season, that there isn’t a reliable starting-caliber quarterback on this roster. Earlier in the season, that could be masked a bit more because of the defense. Now, with the pass rush regressing, the secondary has been exposed, and Minnesota’s defense has been just as bad as its quarterback play in the last month. Even worse for the Vikings, they have a 3-4 record before a stretch against the Lions, Ravens, Bears, Packers, Seahawks, Commanders, and Cowboys. A losing record now feels inevitable.

25. Cincinnati Bengals (22)

Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images

New quarterback, same team. The Cincinnati Bengals are a carbon copy of what we saw last season—a team that needs to score on nearly every possession because its defense might give up just as many scoring drives. The fact that nothing has changed is an indictment of the entire organization. At this point, trading Trey Hendrickson and waving the white flag on this version of the team might be the best idea. Then again, it’s hard to imagine this front office and coaching staff executing the kind of draft-and-develop approach necessary to turn this Bengals defense around.

26. Miami Dolphins (31)

Brett Davis-Imagn Images

That will probably go down as the best performance of the season for the Miami Dolphins. Defensively, this unit played extremely well and took full advantage of Atlanta abandoning the run far too early. De’Von Achane and Tua Tagovailoa capitalized on that, putting Miami up 24-3 and making this a Week 8 blowout that no one saw coming. This win probably won’t be enough to save Mike McDaniel’s job long term, but it’s promising to see the fight this team showed on the road.

27. New York Giants (24)

Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

The life was taken out of the New York Giants’ season immediately after the Cam Skattebo injury. He was more than just an excellent running back — the rookie was the heart of this Giants team. With him done for the season, there will be far too much of this offense placed on Jaxson Dart’s shoulders. The only hope now is for Dart to stay healthy, for Skattebo to make a full recovery, and for a new Giants coaching staff to be in place next season.

Related: New York Giants Coaching Candidates to Replace Brian Daboll

28. New Orleans Saints (28)

Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

The Spencer Rattler era ends as quickly as it seemed to be taking off. He wasn’t entirely to blame for all the turnovers committed by this New Orleans Saints offense in Sunday’s 20-point home loss, but we can’t fault Kellen Moore for making a change. At 1-7 with the NFL trade deadline nearing, it seems increasingly likely that Rashid Shaheed, Brandin Cooks and a few veterans could be off this roster in the near future.

29. Las Vegas Raiders (29)

Christine Tannous/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The one hope for the Las Vegas Raiders to be a competitive team this season and win seven to nine games was having an above-average offense. Instead, Geno Smith has suddenly regressed to the player he was in New York. Brock Bowers is dealing with a serious knee injury, and neither Smith nor Ashton Jeanty stands much chance behind this struggling offensive line. Coming out of the bye, without an offensive turnaround, the Raiders might only win two more games this season. Smith has a low passer rating, ranks near the bottom in the league for interceptions (tied for most with 10), and has been benched recently after poor performances, leaving the team in a difficult position offensively.

30. Cleveland Browns (27)

Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

There’s just nothing inspiring about watching Dillon Gabriel at quarterback. It wouldn’t have made a difference if Shedeur Sanders or Joe Flacco were under center on Sunday — the Cleveland Browns defense didn’t perform well enough to win. Still, Gabriel hasn’t shown the physical tools that starting-caliber quarterbacks need. With a matchup next week against the Jets, Cleveland’s defense should absolutely rebound in a win.

Kevin R. Wexler-NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Aaron Glenn gets his first win as a head coach, and the New York Jets deliver their best offensive performance since the regular-season opener. Glenn’s team, led by Justin Fields, showed real fight on Sunday afternoon in Cincinnati, responding to a 14-point deficit in the fourth quarter with 15 unanswered points and a timely defensive stop for that elusive victory. This is still one of the worst NFL teams in 2025, but Glenn and the Jets finally delivered a performance that gives fans a little hope for the future.

32. Tennessee Titans (30)

Robert Goddin-Imagn Images

The Tennessee Titans are in a class of their own as the worst team in the NFL. It legitimately took another franchise finding unique ways to give the game away, in the form of 14 points, for Tennessee to win its lone game this season. Outside of that, this has looked like by far the worst roster and worst-coached team in the league. Cam Ward deserves so much better than this.

Week 7

1. Indianapolis Colts (2)

Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

What else do the Indianapolis Colts have left to prove? The offensive line and receiving corps in Shane Steichen’s system have provided the perfect supporting cast for Daniel Jones, especially with defenses still having to respect Jonathan Taylor in the backfield amid his All-Pro season. Defensively, Indianapolis just delivered one of its best performances of the season even with top corner Charvarius Ward on IR. Indianapolis is the Super Bowl contender we didn’t see coming, but it’s undeniable at this point.

2. Detroit Lions (3)

Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The resiliency of the Detroit Lions is remarkable. A decimated secondary forced to start backups and rely on career journeymen is one of the biggest reasons why Detroit won on Monday Night Football. Well, them and Jahmyr Gibbs. It hasn’t mattered in these last three years who the defensive or offensive coordinator is, this team is a reflection on head coach Dan Campbell. The Lions have one of the best NFL rosters in 2025 and they are going to get healthier. With how wide-open the NFL is this year, Detroit has as good of a chance as anyone as hoisting the Lombardi Trophy.

3. Kansas City Chiefs (5)

Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

This is the Kansas City Chiefs offense now. Patrick Mahomes has a deep threat (Tyquan Thornton) that defenses have to respect, an offensive weapon (Xavier Worthy) and two chain-movers (Travis Kelce and Rashee Rice) who consistently get open. Oh, he also is playing with far more confidence in his offensive line than he has in years. The only thing Kansas City’s offense is missing is an explosive running back, but there’s a chance of that being found at the NFL trade deadline.

4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1)

Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Baker Mayfield was dreadful on Monday Night Football, there’s no other way around it. It proved especially costly because, outside of the one big touchdown run allowed, this Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense held its own against an elite unit. Mayfield will be able to put this game behind him, he’s played at an MVP-caliber level until now. However, the long-term absence of Mike Evans and the lingering Chris Godwin injury could start taking a toll on the efficiency of this passing game.

5. Seattle Seahawks (4)

Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

A 5-2 record going into the Week 8 bye. Certainly not we expected from the Seattle Seahawks, but this defense is playing at an exceptional level, the offensive line is respectable for the first time in years and Sam Darnold looks like a Pro Bowl quarterback. This looks like one of the five best NFL teams right now. Best of all for Seattle, its defense will get back two of its most critical pieces in November.

6. Green Bay Packers (6)

Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Micah Parsons earned his money on Sunday. Not only did the All-Pro edge rusher contribute 3 sacks on his own, but his very presence proved essential in the team setting a season-high in six. We could knock the Green Bay Packers for putting themselves in a position where they nearly lost to Arizona, but the Cardinals have taken the Colts, 49ers, and Seahawks to the brink this season too. Now, the Packers get to unleash Parsons on Aaron Rodgers while hoping Jordan Love outduels his mentor.

7. Buffalo Bills (8)

Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

It’s not a given that this Buffalo Bills defense will improve coming out of the bye. During their recent two-game losing streak, Buffalo allowed opponents to average 8.1 yards per attempt, and this unit has been pretty abysmal against the run (156.3 rush ypg, 5.8 ypc allowed). Josh Allen, behind an elite offensive line, is still an incredible force who will propel Buffalo to double-digit victories and likely the AFC East crown, but there’s now real reason to question if Buffalo can overcome its defensive issues come playoff time.

8. Los Angeles Rams (13)

Andrew Boyers-Reuters via Imagn Images

No Puka Nacua? No problem for the Los Angeles Rams. Matthew Stafford still threw five touchdowns, connecting with 10 different receivers in a remarkably efficient performance. The most impressive showing, of course, came from the Rams’ defensive line, which generated 11 QB hits and 7 sacks. Los Angeles will get Nacua back following its Week 8 bye, and Sean McVay has to feel like his team should have an even better record if not for some special teams woes.

9. Denver Broncos (11)

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

The Denver Broncos trailed the Eagles 17-3 entering the fourth quarter and then witnessed Bo Nix lead an 18-point comeback for the victory. Evidently, that was just the opening act. Denver’s outlook seemed bleak late on Sunday afternoon at home, trailing New York 19-0 in the fourth quarter. Again, Nix led a comeback and then had to watch the defense give it up with less than a minute left. So, he just pulled out another miracle drive to win another one with a 33-point fourth quarter. There’s just something about this franchise and quarterbacks who struggle for three quarters and then lead fourth-quarter comebacks that will be remembered for months.

10. Philadelphia Eagles (12)

Brad Rempel-Imagn Images

It would be an understatement to say the Philadelphia Eagles needed that one. DeVonta Smith and A.J. Brown took full advantage of a Vikings’ secondary that had far less talent, with Jalen Hurts taking full advantage on multiple downfield strikes. At the very least, the Eagles’ passing game was explosive on Sunday and that was especially true in crunch time. We are still a bit suspect of this Eagles defnese, but right now the victory is all that matters for Philadelphia.

11. New England Patriots (14)

Andrew Nelles / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The New England Patriots schedule has given Drake Maye and Mike Vrabel a real shot at a 10-win season in 2025. This legitimately looks like a very good team right now. New England has a strong defense now that everyone is healthy, which is one of the best supporting elements a young franchise quarterback can have. Vrabel should feel particularly good about Rhamondre Stevenson rewarding him for sticking with the veteran, as Maye’s early success came largely without a stable run game until now. The Patriots are poised to make it five consecutive wins and improve to a 6-2 record with a matchup against the Browns upcoming

12. Pittsburgh Steelers (10)

Albert Cesare/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The lone bright spot for the Pittsburgh Steelers coming out of that Thursday Night Football loss is that Aaron Rodgers wasn’t seriously injured when 311-pound lineman Broderick Jones tackled him to the ground. Pittsburgh had an opportunity to almost coast to an AFC North win if it could beat Cincinnati in Week 7. Instead, the Steelers’ defense reverted to the form we saw in September. The timing couldn’t be worse either, as the upcoming Steelers schedule pits them against three of the best NFL teams in 2025 (Packers, Colts, Chargers), with other tough matchups ahead as well.

13. San Francisco 49ers (17)

Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

You just have to tip your cap to Kyle Shanahan, Robert Saleh and Christian McCaffrey. Playing that well defensively without both Nick Bosa and Fred Warner is simply remarkable. Likewise, Shanahan continues to make this offense function when it needs to with Mac Jones under center and CMC was phenomenal tonight every time he touched the football.

14. Chicago Bears (18)

Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images

Ben Johnson finally has a run game. Development from Caleb Williams is great, but what’s crucial to this offense being effective is a ground game that Johnson knows he can depend on. In the last two games, Chicago Bears running backs D’Andre Swift (232) and Kyle Monangai (100) have combined for 332 rushing yards. That rushing attack will be crucial to beating a healthier and motivated Ravens team in Week 8.

15. Los Angeles Chargers (14)

Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Every team is dealing with significant injuries at this point in the season, but no unit is as banged up as the Los Angeles Chargers offensive line. Most weeks, it just makes it nearly impossible for this offense to function even at a league-average level. Unfortunately for Justin Herbert, Los Angeles faces the Vikings’ pass rush in Week 8. For Los Angeles to have any shot to win, it will require a defensive clinic, and that side of the ball isn’t playing near that level as of late. The Chargers avoid a big drop in our NFL Power Rankings, but that drop will likely come next Sunday.

16. Dallas Cowboys (22)

Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Credit to the Dallas Cowboys for putting Washington into the one position it couldn’t afford to fall into. Dallas’ offense jumpted outto an early 20-8 lead, forcing the Commanders to abandon the run game and play catch-up with their top three receivers sidelined. It was over after that. This game doesn’t erase the concerns abotu the Cowboys’ defense long-term, but the return of CeeDee Lamb could help Dak Prescott and Co. overcome this defense even more often in the weeks to come.

17. Atlanta Falcons (7)

Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Just like that, we’re back to wondering if the Atlanta Falcon are going to wast the season when they finally have a good defense. Michael Penix Jr. and Bijan Robinson both stood little chance behind that offensive line on Sunday Night Football and it’s not like San Francisco was renowned for its excellence up front coming into Week 7. The Falcons now have two inexplicable losses on their resume this year. On paper, they should roll through Miami next Sunday, but that’s clearly never a given with this team.

18. Jacksonville Jaguars (9)

Andrew Boyers-Reuters via Imagn Images

What has happened to the Jacksonville Jaguars? In their first four games this season, Jacksonville allowed just 3 sacks of Trevor Lawrence and its rushing attack averaged 144 rush ypg and 5 ypc. In these lastt wo losses, Lawrence has been sacked 14 times and Jacksonville is averaging just 76.5 rushing yards per game. It’s all fallen apart right ahead of the Week 8 bye, with Jacksonville now opening up a window for the Texans to jump them in the AFC South.

19. Washington Commanders (15)

Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

There’s nothing left to make this passing game function. We might only be a week away from Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel rejoining this Washington Commanders offense, but now Jayden Daniels (hamstring) could miss Week 8. If that’s not bad enough for Washington, its defense has fallen apart in the last two games before facing Patrick Mahomes and a Chiefs’ offense that looks unstoppable. Last season’s success seems so far away right now, especially since this year is going to get even more painful.

20. Carolina Panthers (21)

Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

The Carolina Panthers have a winning record entering Week 8 for the first time since 2019. Victories over the likes of the Dolphins, Cowboys and Jets might not hold much weight to many, but Carolina also blew the doors off Atlanta 30-0 back in Week 3. Once again, the story for the Panthers is the continued success of Rico Dowdle (96 scrimmage yards) and this stifling run defense. It’s highly improbable that either of those will be enough to beat either the Bills or Packers in the next two games, but Carolina would still be just one game below .500 if it loses both those matchups.

21. Houston Texans (20)

Kevin Ng-Imagn Images

As we feared, that five-quarter stretch of success by the Houston Texans offense was a far greater indictment on their opponents than it was a sign this unit was fixed. C.J. Stroud was ‘only’ sacked 3 times on Monday Night Football, but he lived in a state of pressure that gave Houston no chance at taking downfield shots. San Francisco’s pass rush isn’t as strong, but it wouldn’t be a surprise if this offensive line costs Houston another win in Week 9.

22. Cincinnati Bengals (25)

Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Hope remains for the Cincinnati Bengals. There will be ‘lows’ with Joe Flacco, but this Bengals’ offense is happy to take the bad that comes with the explosive plays and feeding Ja’Marr Chase. Now at 3-4, Cincinnati has a viable path to climbing above .500 before the bye as long as it can win at home versus the Jets and Bears.

23. Minnesota Vikings (19)

Brad Rempel-Imagn Images

The fact that the Minnesota Vikings would start Carson Wentz against his former team is not a promising indicator of what this coaching staff thinks of J.J. McCarthy’s readiness to start. Wentz has long been a poor decision-maker, and many of his mistakes, amplified by a banged-up offensive line, came back to haunt Minnesota in Week 7. Now 3-3 on the season, the Vikings’ upcoming schedule—at Chargers, at Lions, vs. Ravens, vs. Bears, at Seahawks and vs. Commanders—means there is a very strong possibility this team will be below .500 come December.

24. New York Giants (23)

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

We could focus on the fact that two missed extra-points are responsible for why the New York Giants lost in Denver on Sunday. However, that would also be letting the rest of this team off the hook for allowing THIRTY-THREE POINTS in the fourth quarter. It’s unfathomable, but New York found a way to do it. Just when it felt like this team was in a new era under Jaxson Dart and Cam Skattebo, the same ol’ Giants appear. It’s maddening for fans, but at least the three rookies (Dart, Skattebo and Abdul Carter) offer hope for the future.

25. Arizona Cardinals (24)

Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Arizona Cardinals seem like a glutton for punishment. They led for nearly all four quarters on Sunday against Green Bay and then collapsed again. There are truly moments, as we’ve seen against the Seahawks, Packers, 49ers, and Colts, where it looks like this could be one of the best NFL teams in 2025. Then, the Cardinals implode. It’s happened with different starting quarterbacks, too. At some point, the blame has to fall on the head coach.

26. Baltimore Ravens (31)

Denny Medley-Imagn Images

There’s a glimmer of hope for the Baltimore Ravens coming out of the Week 7 bye. Because of the Steelers’ TNF loss, the Ravens are now just three games back of first place in the AFC North. That’s with Lamar Jackson and Roquan Smith set to rejoin the team in Week 8. The Ravens schedule–Bears, Dolphins, Vikings, Browns, Jets, Bengals, Steelers– also gives this team a path to climbing out of its 1-5 hole.

27. Cleveland Browns (29)

Scott Galvin-Imagn Images

The Cleveland Browns were perfectly positioned to crush Miami, especially given the weather conditions. Quinshon Judkins continues to prove that he can be the centerpiece of this offense for years to come, and Cleveland is still fielding a top-five defense. Those are two great building blocks for a young quarterback, but that caliber of passer is not currently on the Browns’ roster.

28. New Orleans Saints (26)

David Banks-Imagn Images

It feels like Spencer Rattler heard all the national buzz about playing well enough to take the New Orleans Saints out of the quarterback market in the 2026 NFL Draft and decided to remind everyone there is another side to his play. That said, Rattler’s performance in the first two months of the season, combined with how poorly the 2026 quarterback class has played, makes it a smarter bet to keep building the core of this roster. As for the game itself, New Orleans simply lost to a much better team.

29. Las Vegas Raiders (28)

Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

The Las Vegas Raiders are nearing rock bottom. With the Chiefs’ offense recapturing its elite form, the Raiders’ defense was embarrassed on Sunday afternoon. For once, there isn’t much blame placed on Geno Smith’s shoulders, but he’s clearly not going to make things any better. The Raiders made a bit of a gamble this offseason by acquiring Smith and betting on Pete Carroll, who is now 74 years old, to still have something left in the tank. If there is one glimmer of hope, it is that many around the NFL remain high on the first-year Raiders general manager’s chances of rebuilding this roster.

30. Tennessee Titans (30)

Denny Simmons / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The real victory for the Tennessee Titans came days before their Week 7 matchup, with ehad coach Mike McDaniel fired. Proverbial icing on the cake arrived on Sunday, with rookie Cam Ward delivering his best performance of the season. It didn’t result in a win, those are nearly impossible to come by with this Titans roster, but Ward’s game at least showed more glimpses of what he’s capable of once Tennessee provides him with a better supporting cast.

Related: Tennessee Titans Coaching Candidates to Replace Brian Callahan

31. Miami Dolphins (27)

Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

We can’t wait to see who Tua Tagovailoa throws under the bus this time. Firing Mike McDaniel might fix the Miami Dolphins‘ lack of culture and could bring some accountability to the organization. That said, the next head coach will not make much of a difference if Tagovailoa and general manager Chris Grier remain. Miami needs a full house cleaning. That is the only solution. Unfortunately, that is not a given with owner Stephen Ross as the fan base knows all too well.

32. New York Jets (32)

Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

Well, at least Aaron Glenn made the change at quarterback. The frustration from New York Jets fans is justified. Glenn waited far too long to bench Justin Fields. His decisions at the end of the first half in the last two games are inexcusable. However, the calls for him to be fired are still premature. This is a multi-year rebuild, and it’s worth giving this new regime at least two full years. After all, many fans called for Dan Campbell to be fired after he went 4-19-1 in his first 24 games. Just have a little patience.

Week 6

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2)

Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Next man up. Emeka Egbuka (hamstring) became the latest star Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver to go down, but Baker Mayfield still finds a way to make this offense flow. He spread the football around incredibly effectively on Sunday, paving the way for the Buccaneers to improve to 5-1 on the year. The injuries might finally catch up to Tampa Bay next week versus Detroit, but that will still be a must-see matchup on Monday Night Football.

2. Indianapolis Colts (10)

Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

The Cardinals have proven feisty all season and put the Indianapolis Colts in a 24-17 hole entering the fourth quarter on Sunday. Daniel Jones and Jonathan Taylor delivered, combining for 143 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns in another impressive win by Indianapolis. Moving to 5-1 on the season, the Colts have now scored 29-plus points in five of their six games this season.

3. Detroit Lions (1)

Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

A dominant run by the Detroit Lions came to a screeching halt on Sunday Night Football. Injuries certainly played a key role in the primetime defeat to Kansas City, but Detroit can also blame itself for penalties and missed opportunities. Ultimately, the Lions still come out of this one with a 4-2 record that puts them near the top of the NFC and they haven’t played their best football yet with a healthy roster. Given Dan Campbell’s history as head coach, it shouldn’t surprise anyone if the Lions rebound in Week 7 by taking down the Bucs.

4. Seattle Seahawks (9)

Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images

It’s not easy to make a cross-country trip after a loss to face a matchup against one of the hottest teams in the NFL. Sam Darnold and the Seattle Seahawks did just that in Week 6, going to Jacksonville and pulling out a convincing 20-12 win over the Jaguars. Seattle’s run defense rebounded in this one, but Sam Darnold (10.9 yards per attempt, 2-0 TD-INT, and 121.7 QB rating) was the real standout. Seattle faces a tough test against the Texans’ defense on Monday Night Football in Week 7, but a 5-2 record entering the bye is very doable for Mike McDaniel and Co.

5. Kansas City Chiefs (12)

Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

The Kansas City Chiefs have an outstanding passing game again with Rashee Rice rejoining the team in Week 7. Even without his No. 1 wideout, Patrick Mahomes really started to make it work with Xavier Worthy, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Travis Kelce and Hollywood Brown. Now, Kansas City welcomes back a playmaker who was one of the most efficient and productive players prior to his season-ending injury in 2024. This is still a three-loss team, but Kansas City is starting to rediscover its Super Bowl form.

6. Green Bay Packers (11)

Mark Hoffman-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images

The Green Bay Packers won fairly convincingly on Sunday coming out of the bye, but that performance still leaves something to be desired. First and foremost, the holes at corner and defensive tackle (Devonte Wyatt injury) remain apparent, and even a healthy Packers’ offensive line is having its share of issues in pass protection. With that said, Green Bay’s run game finally came alive on Sunday and this team now gets a chance to build on this momentum in a Week 7 matchup against the Cardinals.

7. Atlanta Falcons (17)

Brett Davis-Imagn Images

With how wide-open the NFL is this season, the ceiling can he as high as the Super Bowl for the Atlanta Falcons. Michael Penix Jr. is improving and this defense still boasts a young pass rush that can become more consistent over time. Even if you look at the Monday Night Football game as the Falcons just matching up really well versus Buffalo, Atlanta has strengths (Bijan Robinson and the defense) that can beat some of the best NFL teams in 2025. Whether or not the Falcons maintain that depends on more growth from Penix.

8. Buffalo Bills (3)

Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Either the Buffalo Bills have to find a No. 1 wide receiver or make improvements to this defense. Without addressing either of those problems, Buffalo will likely win the AFC East and then get knocked out by the Chiefs, Colts or potentially even the Jacksonville Jaguars in the playoffs. Josh Allen still hasn’t locked into his true MVP mode where he puts this offense on his back, but the glaring weaknesses on this Bills roster will still be there when that happens.

9. Jacksonville Jaguars (5)

Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Coming off a monumental victory on primetime, a letdown performance the following week isn’t all that surprising for the Jacksonville Jaguars. Liam Coen’s run game has hit a bit of a wall in the last two games and, without getting great field position or a score off a takeaway, Jacksonville couldn’t dig itself out of a 20-6 hole. This team is still 4-2 on the season and no one should rule out the Jaguars pulling off a surprise win versus the Rams next weekend.

10. Pittsburgh Steelers (13)

Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

This is all the Pittsburgh Steelers need from Aaron Rodgers, especially if the offensive line can protect like it did on Sunday afternoon. Rodgers now has a 118.67 QB rating with a 75 percent completion rate in the last two games, both protecting the football and delivering some vintage downfield strikes. While we’re still a bit weary of the Steelers’ ground game and defense, this team can feel extremely comfortable about its standing as a playoff contender.

11. Denver Broncos (7)

Paul Childs/Reuters via Imagn Images

The Denver Broncos escaped with the victory overseas against New York, but the game renewed questions regarding the level of faith Sean Payton has in Bo Nix. Denver couldn’t effectively run the football, yet Payton kept trying to force it in the second half as he took the football out of Nix’s hands. Furthermore, Denver’s victory over Philadelphia a week later has lost some of its luster. We’ll see if Nix and J.K. Dobbins can get something going again next week versus the Giants.

12. Philadelphia Eagles (4)

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

In the last five quarters, the Philadelphia Eagles have been outscored 52-17. It’s become apparent this season how much Vic Fangio’s defense is missing the depth on the defensive line that it used to have, but the lack of cohesion from the Eagles’ offense is even more alarming. Given Philadelphia’s struggles and this team’s penchant for having some locker-room issues during difficult times, it might get worse from here.

13. Los Angeles Rams (14)

Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Rams get the 14-point win, but Sean McVay can’t be feeling great after this one. Puka Nacua (ankle) is questionable to play in Week 7 against Jacksonville, and this Rams’ offense doesn’t look the same without its all-important offensive weapon. Los Angeles also had real trouble stopping Derrick Henry on Sunday (122 yards) despite knowing he was the Ravens’ only threat offensively. The 4-2 record is really all that matters, but we could be looking at a 4-3 team entering the bye after next week.

14. New England Patriots (16)

Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

Drake Maye has definitely arrived. Even with the New England Patriots not having any run game to speak of (2.4 yards per carry), Maye put on a passing clinic on the road in New Orleans. The Patriots legitimately could be 5-1 right now if they could’ve just held onto the football once or twice versus Pittsburgh. Still, credit to Mike Vrabel’s team for rebounding from that game with an impressive three-game win streak where the Patriots have looked like the better team in all three matchups.

15. Washington Commanders (8)

Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

The Washington Commanders only have themselves to blame for that Monday Night Football loss. Three turnovers, two by Jayden Daniels, turned into 13 points for the Chicago Bears. Injuries, which Washington has its fair share of, can’t even be pointed to as the reason why the Commanders are now a 3-3 team. Fortunately, this defense continues to play relatively well and as long as Daniels avoids the giveaways in Week 7, Washington will rebound to beat the Dallas Cowboys.

16. Los Angeles Chargers (15)

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Chargers survived a cross-country trip to Florida in Week 6, with Justin Herbert and Ladd McConkey ultimately saving the day on a game-winning drive. However, getting outscored 14-6 by Miami in the fourth quarter and nearly losing to a 1-5 team all the while being unable to stop the run does raise some concerns. Set to host the Colts next week, that tentatively looks like a matchup where the Colts’ weaknesses will really be exploited.

17. San Francisco 49ers (6)

Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Even more impactful than the loss for the San Francisco 49ers in Week 6 is the likely season-ending injury for Fred Warner. This team has now lost the heart and soul of its defense, not to mention the fact that Warner and Nick Bosa are both now done for the year. Even with the offense potentially getting Brock Purdy back in Week 7, the injuries on defense make it feel like a spiral is coming.

18. Chicago Bears (23)

Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

The Chicago Bears might’ve won because they caught some breaks on Monday Night Football, but the end result counts the same in the NFL standings. Just as important, Chicago finally got something out of its rushing attack as D’Andre Swift delivered the kind of performance, both in terms of efficiency and explosive plays, that has been absent from the Bears’ ground game all year. If that continues, the Bears schedule sets up to give them an outside shot of making the playoffs.

19. Minnesota Vikings (19)

Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

The primary hope for the Minnesota Vikings as they emerge from the Week 6 bye is that this team is healthier in the United States. Jordan Mason has had issues protecting the football since the Aaron Jones injury, and the Vikings offensive line without Brian O’Neill, Donovan Jackson, and Ryan Kelly has been abysmal. Even just getting a few key starters back should be enough to help Minnesota take down a reeling Eagles team in Week 7.

20. Houston Texans (20)

Rafael Suanes-Imagn Images

The good news for the Houston Texans isn’t just that they’ve won two games in a row by a 70-10 margin; it’s that their three losses (to the Jaguars, Buccaneers, and Rams) have been to very good teams and were decided by a combined 13 points. Houston’s passing game is also starting to click more, at least in its last five quarters, and this defense is exceptional. The next four weeks—Seahawks, 49ers, Broncos, and Jaguars—will be the ultimate litmus test to determine if we’re seeing a repeat of the 2024 Texans or the 2023 Texans.

21. Carolina Panthers (23)

Cory Knowlton-Imagn Images

Rico Dowdle now has 473 scrimmage yards in two starts as the Carolina Panthers‘ featured back, clearly taking the job away from Chuba Hubbard. While there are still very real limitations on the passing game with Bryce Young under center, he’s at least limiting the negative plays. It’s been enough to push Carolina to a 3-1 record over the last month, with a viable shot at a three-game winning streak thanks to a Week 7 matchup against the Jets at MetLife.

22. Dallas Cowboys (17)

Cory Knowlton-Imagn Images

Dak Prescott is doing everything he can to keep the Dallas Cowboys in the mix for a wild card spot in the NFC, but this Dallas Cowboys defense is making that a nearly impossible task. Even if CeeDee Lamb returns to the field in Week 7, that won’t do anything for a team that still can’t stop the run and has issues generating a consistent pass rush. Now at 2-3-1 in the year, the upcoming Cowboys schedule (Commanders, Broncos, and Cardinals) could put this team in an even bigger hole.

23. New York Giants (26)

Julian Leshay Guadalupe/NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

It’s still a small sample size, but the Jaxson Dart–Cam Skattebo pairing is certainly showing enough flashes together that Brian Daboll’s job might be safe. It’s possible that this New York Giants offense takes a major step backward in Week 7 against Denver’s defense, especially given the down performance against New Orleans. Even if the Giants lose that game, though, this season was about finding building blocks offensively for the future, and that’s exactly what Dart and Skattebo have provided.

24. Arizona Cardinals (22)

Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

The Arizona Cardinals are just too short-handed right now to overcome the little things. Budda Baker dropped a would-be interception on Sunday, and this Cardinals’ offense, now missing Trey Benson, James Conner, and Marvin Harrison Jr. (concussion), couldn’t deliver that go-ahead touchdown when it had a chance. Unfortunately, as fans have seen throughout the season, it’s both the little things and the injuries that have turned a potential 4-2 record into a 2-4 mark.

25. Cincinnati Bengals (25)

Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

If what this Cincinnati bengals offense showed in the second half at Lambeau Field can carry over in the weeks to come, maybe this can be a slightly below-average team. That’s unfortunately the ceiling for a club whose defense continues to regress and just lost Trey Hendrickson to an injury. We’ve seen surprises on Thursday Night Football this season, but we don’t anticipate Joe Flacco delivering one in Week 7 versus Pittsburgh.

26. New Orleans Saints (24)

Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

If it’s true that the New Orleans Saints aren’t willing to make an Alvin Kamara trade, that’s another mistake by the organization. While this club has proven more competitive than expected, with Spencer Rattler playing relatively well, they are still one of the worst NFL teams in 2025. There’s no sense in holding onto Kamara during a rebuild, and the Saints would certainly benefit from having more draft capital in 2026.

27. Miami Dolphins (27)

Rich Storry-Imagn Images

Now at 1-5 this season, the Miami Dolphins are clearly headed in a direction where they should be sellers at the NFL trade deadline. While Mike McDaniel’s team has looked better over the last month, the end result is still this club being four games below the .500 mark with little hope for improvement. If Miami is open to selling, it’s fair to wonder if teams inquire about running back De’Von Achane, who now has 585 scrimmage yards and 4 touchdowns, as he’s likely going to want a new deal next offseason and this team needs to reset.

28. Las Vegas Raiders (30)

Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

The Las Vegas Raiders are starting to get Ashton Jeanty going, and Tre Tucker has provided an explosive weapon that this offense needs with Brock Bowers sidelined. With that said, this is still an ugly two-win team. Maybe the Raiders can pull off a surprise next week at Arrowhead Stadium against the Chiefs, but the likelier outcome is Geno Smith getting picked off multiple times in a multi-score loss.

29. Cleveland Browns (28)

Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

This is what you get with Dillon Gabriel. Even if you take away the 6 sacks for 38 yards lost, he only averaged 4.25 yards per attempt on 52 passes in Week 6. Now throw in his penchant for sacks and you’ve got a Cleveland Browns passing game that finished with 183 net passing yards on 56 dropbacks in an ugly 23-9 loss. Cleveland simply doesn’t have its future starting quarterback on the roster, but this defense and Quinshon Judkins will give the Browns a shot at defeating the Dolphins next Sunday.

30. Tennessee Titans

Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

It’s time for the Tennessee Titans. Firing Brian Callahan might not fix anything for the foreseeable future, but it will at least send a message to the fan base that the organization is not going to accept what Callahan has done to help Cam Ward. Callahan is going to be fired anyway, so the front office might as well start its coaching evaluation process right now.

31. Baltimore Ravens (31)

Peter Casey-Imagn Images

On the bright side for the Baltimore Ravens, quarterback Lamar Jackson is expected to return following the Week 7 bye. The perennial MVP candidate will rejoin a team with a 1-5 record that, quite frankly, didn’t look particularly good even before being decimated by injuries. With that said, the upcoming Ravens schedule—Bears, Dolphins, Vikings, Browns, Jets, Bengals—at least offers a path to get back on track.

32. New York Jets (32)

Chris Pedota / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

What was everyone expecting from the New York Jets in 2025? We understand the calls for Justin Fields to be benched, though, even that feels like a bit of an overreaction to one game. The wildest overreaction is those already suggesting Aaron Glenn should be fired. This was always going to be a multi-year project for the new regime to fix and that’s what is happening in 2025. The losses will keep coming, but anyone who is surprised by that never understood what this team was coming into the season.

Week 5

1. Detroit Lions (3)

Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

The Detroit Lions are the best team in the NFC. Since that wake-up call in Week 1 at Lambeau Field, Detroit has been taking out its frustrations on every opponent in its wrath. Cincinnati was the latest to experience that on Sunday, witnessing this Lions’ machine fire on all cylinders without even a hiccup. Now heading to Arrowhead Stadium, Detroit can make another statement on national television.

2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4)

Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

Baker Mayfield’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers just find ways to win. Defeating the Seattle Seahawks seemed improbable given all the injuries this team is dealing with. Yet, against a top-five defense in Seattle, Baker Mayfield put on a masterclass through the air (11.5 ypa, 2-0 TD-INT, 379 passing yards) and then the ball bounced Lavonte David’s way for an interception that set up the game-winning kick. Tampa Bay remains a Super Bowl contender, even if it isn’t getting a ton of national attention.

3. Buffalo Bills (2)

Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

The defense remains an issue for the Buffalo Bills. After New England’s first three drives resulted in 53 total yards and a lost fumble, it followed that up with 23 points and 285 total yards on the next seven drives. Buffalo will clean up its own turnovers, and it had three costly ones on Sunday Night Football, but that Bills’ defense is the team’s biggest issue.

4. Philadelphia Eagles (1)

Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Well, A.J. Brown will have even more to voice his frustration about now. The Philadelphia Eagles‘ got DeVonta Smith more involved on Sunday, but the end result was still a woefully bad third-down offense (2-for-11) and this team choking away a two-touchdown lead in the fourth quarter. Once again, the finger has to be pointed at an offense that totaled just 48 yards on its last five scoreless drives and much of that came in the closing seconds against a prevent defense.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars (9)

Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Even with a fumble at the goal line and a controversial non-call for DPI that quickly turned into a Chiefs’ touchdown, the Jacksonville Jaguars still found a way to win on Monday Night Football. Keep in mind that Jacksonville didn’t have No. 2 edge rusher Travon Walker, and quarterback Trevor Lawrence wasn’t entirely sharp as a passer, but Jacksonville still pulled it out. Seattle’s defense will be a great test for Travis Etienne and Liam Coen’s run game, but this defense gives Jacksonville a real shot at a 5-1 start.

6. San Francisco 49ers (12)

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The resiliency of this San Francisco 49ers team is remarkable. With Brock Purdy, Jauan Jennings, George Kittle, and Ricky Pearsall out, Kyle Shanahan’s offense still found a way to put up 407 total yards and beat the Rams in Los Angeles. Coming out of that game with a victory and the possibility of all four returning in Week 6 should give San Francisco a lot of hope for what’s to come.

7. Denver Broncos (14)

Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

This can be a season-changing win for the Denver Broncos. Trailing 17-3 in the fourth quarter on the road, Bo Nix and Sean Payton were in real danger of falling to 2-3, with their only wins coming against the Titans and the Jake Browning-led Bengals. Instead, Denver came back decisively. The Broncos’ defense was lights out in the second half, allowing Nix to lead 18 unanswered points, stunning the crowd in Philadelphia and thrusting this team back into the thick of the AFC’s field of contenders.

8. Washington Commanders (15)

Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Jayden Daniels returned on Sunday, but the real story is the breakout game from running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt. Bill did it all. He delivered his first 100-yard game, scored a pair of touchdowns, and eclipsed 150 scrimmage yards on the day. Washington has found its featured running back, and this team is still waiting to get back Terry McLaurin, giving Daniels that No. 1 receiver he needs.

9. Seattle Seahawks (8)

Steven Bisig-Imagn Images

Sam Darnold got the football back with 68 seconds left in a tie game, an opportunity to lead the Seattle Seahawks to another last-second win. Fate wasn’t on his side this time. Darnold’s throw bounced off a defender’s helmet and landed in the arms of Lavonte David at Seattle’s 38-yard line. The Seahawks’ defense, on a rare off day, couldn’t get a stop and Tampa Bay hit the game-winning field goal. It’s a painful loss for Seattle, but they took one of the best NFL teams right now to the final whistle. Another big challenge is looming, with a cross-country trip to face the Jaguars.

10. Indianapolis Colts (12)

Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

That’s how you get back on track after a tough loss in Los Angeles. Returning home, the Indianapolis Colts offense feasted, with Daniel Jones delivering another passing clinic. Shane Steichen and the Colts coaching staff rightfully feel like this team should be 5-1, and this team proved on Sunday it can put its mistakes in the rearview mirror and move on quickly. Now 4-1 on the season, the Colts have a week to prepare for a Cardinals team that has proven feisty this year.

11. Green Bay Packers (10)

Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The Green Bay Packers offensive line needs to get healthy. That is paramount coming out of the Week 5 bye, which proved more timely than this team likely imagined entering the season. Green Bay’s ceiling, with this offense and a pass rush led by Micah Parsons and Rashan Gary, can win on any given week. Returning from the bye, Green Bay immediately faces a get-right game against a woeful Bengals team.

12. Kansas City Chiefs (6)

Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The good news for the Kansas City Chiefs is that this passing game is getting back on track, even before No. 1 wideout Rashee Rice returns from his six-game suspension. Still, this team is in a 2-3 hole and Kansas City’s defense surrendered 24 points in the second half. Unfortunately for the Chiefs, it will likely be a 2-4 hole after facing Detroit on Sunday Night Football.

13. Pittsburgh Steelers (11)

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Pittsburgh Steelers‘ recipe for success right now probably isn’t sustainable. Pittsburgh had a -2 point differential in its first four games, putting them in company with the Ravens and Falcons. Takeaways (10) have been a big part of the team’s success as of late, but efficiency isn’t exactly this team’s thing. Currently allowing the seventh-highest yards-per-play average (5.7) while ranking 24th in that same category, Pittsburgh needs to win its next two winnable games (vs. Browns and at Bengals) before its schedule gets a lot tougher.

14. Los Angeles Rams (5)

Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

A missed field goal, blocked extra-point attempt, and two fumbles all proved costly in Week 5 for the Los Angeles Rams. The bigger problem, though, is this Rams’ secondary keeps demonstrating that it can’t be trusted even against backup receivers. Fortunately for Los Angeles, it should be able to rebound in Week 6 against the Ravens, the league’s worst defense and a team that appears to be in peril of further collapse.

15. Los Angeles Chargers (7)

Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Two turnovers inside the Commanders’ 25-yard line, including an unfortunate Justin Herbert interception at the 1-yard line, proved devastating for the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday. Turnovers can be a bit fluky, but the Chargers’ porous offensive line without Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater is a problem that isn’t going away. Fortunately, Los Angeles gets to face a bottom-three Miami defense in Week 6.

16. New England Patriots (22)

Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

The New England Patriots pulled it off on Sunday Night Football, winning the turnover battle and keeping Josh Allen in check for the first half. Even more notable, Drake Maye’s excellence after the first four drives and his game-winning drive. New England has an emerging star at quarterback and Stefon Diggs is playing that No. 1 role perfectly. If the Patriots could’ve just held onto the football versus Pittsburgh, we’d be talking about a 4-1 team on a four-game win streak.

17. Dallas Cowboys (21)

Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

Dak Prescott is playing at an MVP-caliber level again, and this Dallas Cowboys offense is cooking, even without CeeDee Lamb. We’re not going to put a ton of stock in the Cowboys’ performance defensively, given everything that happened in September, but running back Javonte Williams continues to deserve his flowers. He looks healthy for the first time in years, and Brian Schottenheimer is drawing up an incredible offense, even with starters missing on the offensive line. The wins are coming for the Cowboys.

18. Atlanta Falcons (19)

Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Can the Atlanta Falcons get even league-average quarterback play out of Michael Penix Jr? It doesn’t necessarily have to be consistent, but more highs than lows would mean everything for this team moving forward. Entering the Week 5 bye, Atlanta’s defense ranked 11th in EPA per Play (-0.033) and BIjan Robinson leads the seventh-best rushing attack in the NFL (136.5 rush ypg). If Penix can sustain more of the flashes he demonstrated vs Washington, the Falcons can beat teams like the 49ers (Oct. 19), Patriots (Nov. 2) and Colts (Nov. 9) and really be in a position to be a potential buyer at the NFL trade deadline.

19. Minnesota Vikings (21)

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Justin Jefferson came up clutch for the Minnesota Vikings once again, proving instrumental in a victory this team desperately needed before its Week 6 bye. The team certainly has several flaws—run defense, pass protection, and pass defense—but the hope is that two weeks of rest will be enough for Minnesota’s offensive line to recover. If all goes well, Aaron Jones and J.J. McCarthy will also rejoin this unit soon.

20. Houston Texans (23)

Rafael Suanes-Imagn Images

Since the fourth quarter last week, this Houston Texans offense has resembled something close to what we saw two seasons ago when C.J. Stroud looked like a superstar. That at least provides hope, as does the two-game win streak. The real question is just how legitimate this mini-turnaround is, given that the success has come versus two of the league’s worst defenses. We’ll get that answer in Week 6 against the Seahawks, but a true turnaround would dramatically alter the playoff picture in the AFC.

21. Chicago Bears (18)

David Banks-Imagn Images

Coming out of the Week 5 bye, there is plenty for the Chicago Bears to feel good about right now. Most importantly, quarterback Caleb Williams (7-2 TD-INT, 102.0 QB rating, and 8.07 adjusted yards per attempt) has already shown strides in Ben Johnson’s offense over the last three games. The bye week also bought some time for Colston Loveland, Kyler Gordon, Darnell Wright, and T.J. Edwards to get healthy. All of this positions Chicago to be a threat to beat the Commanders in Monday Night Football in Week 6, but teams that can’t run the football and struggle to defend the run don’t tend to fare well long-term.

22. Arizona Cardinals (17)

Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Arizona Cardinals can’t get out of their own way. Arizona led this game 21-1, then collapsed just like it did against Carolina. Ordinarily, there would be one lowlight. Instead, the Cardinals had Emari Demercado slow down on a 72-yard touchdown run and drop the football short of the goal line for a touchback, and then Dadrion Taylor-Demerson fumbled an interception that Tennessee recovered for a touchdown. If this loss isn’t a wake-up call for the Cardinals, that’s a reflection on quarterback Kyler Murray, head coach Jonathan Gannon and the entirety of this organization.

23. Carolina Panthers (27)

Cory Knowlton-Imagn Images

No matter what happens to the Carolina Panthers for the rest of the season, head coach Dave Canales needs to stick around. After two turnovers by Bryce Young put Carolina into an early hole, Canales dialed up a run game centered around Rico Pollard. The former 1,000-yard rusher erupted for 234 scrimmage yards on only 26 touches. Dowdle proved instrumental in the comeback, and Young chipped in late, engineering a game-winning drive to push Carolina to 2-3.

24. New Orleans Saints (31)

Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

Spencer Rattler is beginning to take the New Orleans Saints out of the early mix for a quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft. At the very least, his play should ensure that rookie Tyler Shough doesn’t see the field for a while. Shough’s numbers might not jump off the stat sheet, but he’s playing well within Kellen Moore’s offense, and this young Saints offensive line is really starting to stand out.

25. Cincinnati Bengals (24)

Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

This is the new normal for the Cincinnati Bengals, at least for a while. Cincinnati has three blowout losses under Jake Browning and it’s hard to see things getting any better next week at Lambeau Field against the Packers. It’ll be a 2-4 hole and the Bengals schedule offers minimal relief after that.

26. New York Giants (25)

Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

The scripted first two drives worked out great for Jaxson Dart and this New York Giants offense, as evidenced by the 14 points and 129 total yards. After that, Brian Daboll’s play-calling resulted in zero points and five turnovers. This came against a below-average Saints defense. We don’t want to imagine how poorly things could go for Dart and company in the weeks to come versus better defenses.

27. Miami Dolphins (28)

Cory Knowlton-Imagn Images

The Miami Dolphins are one of the worst NFL teams in 2025, but at least this offense is starting to show some signs of life. Tua Tagovailoa played really well; unfortunately, Miami’s defense remains an anchor that continues to drag this team deeper and deeper into the abyss. It won’t get any easier in Week 6 against the Chargers and Omarion Hampton.

28. Cleveland Browns (26)

Jeff Lange / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Quinshon Judkins was easily the Cleveland Browns‘ most impressive rookie in Week 5, quickly proving he can be a building block for this team moving forward. As for Dillon Gabriel, he was fine taking all the short and easy throws, but his limited attempts 10-plus yards downfield left a lot to be desired. It wasn’t a particularly impressive first NFL start, but Gabriel protected the football better than Joe Flacco did.

29. Tennessee Titans (32)

Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Cam Ward is that guy. The Tennessee Titans caught a ton of breaks in Sunday’s thrilling comeback, with most of them self-inflicted by Arizona. Still, the Titans’ rookie quarterback had to take advantage of it all on the road. He did just that, and Tennessee got Calvin Ridley (5-131) back on track in this game. Wins will be few and far between for the Titans, but this game offered a glimpse into what Ward can do once he gets even more help around him.

30. Las Vegas Raiders (29)

Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

It feels appropriate that just when it seemed like the Las Vegas Raiders finally found a quality starting quarterback, Geno Smith flips the script and has a career-worst season. He’s not entirely to blame, as the Raiders’ offensive line is an eyesore, but many of his interceptions this season are of his own doing. Las Vegas will be in the quarterback market again this offseason, and they still don’t have the infrastructure (offensive line and receivers) to effectively support one.

31. Baltimore Ravens (16)

Rafael Suanes-Imagn Images

That’s a wrap for the 2025 Baltimore Ravens. Injuries were certainly an accessory in the death of the Ravens’ Super Bowl window, but the collapse really started all the way back in the fourth quarter versus Buffalo. John Harbaugh’s team enver really recovered from it. With Lamar Jackson expected to miss Week 6, beating the Rams is unimaginable. That would drop Baltimore to 1-5 entering the bye and it’s not unfair to wonder if this team eventually has to start contemplating if it should be a seller at the NFL trade deadline in November.

32. New York Jets (30)

Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

There is very little good to say about this New York Jets performance, outside of running back Breece Hall. We’ve tried to exercise some patience with this Jets defense since a new scheme is being implemented, but nothing shown five games into the season suggests defensive coordinator Steve Wilks should be around for much longer.

Week 4

32. Tennessee Titans (30)

Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

It’s probably time for the Tennessee Titans to make a coaching change. Cam Ward just doesn’t stand a chance at being successful in this current ecosystem, and play-calling has just as much to do with it as surrounding talent and the offensive line. Looking at the Titans’ schedule, it’s difficult to see when that first win of the season might come.

Related: Tennessee Titans Coaching Candidates to Replace Brian Callahan

31. New Orleans Saints (31)

Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

As Sunday’s loss in Buffalo demonstrated, the New Orleans Saints are at least being a bit competitive in games. Kendre Miller even showed some positive signs, as did rookie safety Jonas Sanker, so there are positives on both sides of the ball. With that said, now at 0-4, it’s fair to wonder when the Saints might finally start taking calls on an Alvin Kamara trade.

Related: NFL Trade Candidates 2025

30. New York Jets (28)

Rich Storry-Imagn Images

The New York Jets got in their own way on Monday Night Football, costing themselves a chance at a win. Fumbles and missed tackles seemed appropriate for a team that, despite the level of experience on the roster, needs an offseason reset. The results from Jeff Ulbrich’s defense this season are the most disappointing element of this team, but we’re willing to give him some time as he was hired to overhaul the team culture.

29. Las Vegas Raiders (25)

Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Well, at least Ashton Jeanty (138 rushing yards and 3 total touchdowns) finally broke free for a big game. That’s the lone positive for the Las Vegas Raiders. Geno Smith, hand-picked by Tom Brady after the Matthew Stafford trade fell through, now has a pair of three-interception games in September. If that’s not bad enough, the 1-3 Raiders just lost left tackle Kolton Miller to an injury. It really might get even worse in Las Vegas on offense.

28. Miami Dolphins (32)

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Well, at least the Miami Dolphins got their first win of the season. The offense has looked better over the last two weeks, and the return of tight end Darren Waller certainly helped out Tua Tagovailoa in Week 4. However, that was largely all with Tyreek Hill. Now that the All-Pro wideout is done for the year, it could get ugly for Miami’s passing game again.

27. Carolina Panthers (23)

Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

After rallying to fight back against Arizona and then shutting out the Falcons, it seemed like the Carolina Panthers were starting to find a bit of an early stride before October. That came to a screeching halt on Sunday in Foxborough. Falling behind big in the second quarter, Carolina had to abandon the ground game, and Bryce Young was ill-equipped to put this offense all on his shoulders. Fortunately for the Panthers, they will have an opportunity to rebound next week against the Dolphins.

26. Cleveland Browns (22)

David Reginek-Imagn Images

The Cleveland Browns defense is good enough to win a handful of games this season, just not on the road against a Super Bowl challenger when Joe Flacco can’t protect the football. One thing Sunday proved: Cleveland might as well give Dillon Gabriel a shot because the team isn’t gaining anything from starting Flacco at this point.

25. New York Giants (29)

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

As good as that stunning win over the Chargers must’ve felt for Jaxson Dart and the New York Giants, it came at a devastating cost. Malik Nabers’ injury certainly felt season-ending, and it was evident how ineffective this passing game was without him on the field. Maybe New York’s defense can lead it to a win over the Saints, but it’s going to be painful to watch this offense.

Related: New York Giants Coaching Candidates to Replace Brian Daboll

24. CIncinnati Bengals (24)

Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

This is the new normal for the Cincinnati Bengals. That brief run by Jake Browning at the end of the 2023 season was nice, but this is more in line of what he’s going to be behind this offensive line. It wipes out the explosiveness of the Bengals’ passing game and we’ve already seen the added strain it’s had on the defense. The losses are going to start piling up quickly here for Cincinnati.

23. Houston Texans (27)

Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

C.J. Stroud still got hit a lot on Sunday, but the Houston Texans got that elusive first win that evaded them until the end of September. What DeMeco Ryans and Co. have to feel great about is this offense putting up 20 points in the fourth quarter and running back Woody Marks seemingly emerging as the RB1. Unfortunately for Houston, it now faces a Ravens team that is extremely talented and desperate for a win

22. New England Patriots (26)

Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

After turnovers kept them from beating Pittsburgh last Sunday, the New England Patriots protected the football in Week 4 and won in emphatic fashion. There were bright spots in all three phases of the game, starting with Marcus Jones’ punt-return touchdown that brought some life to Gillette Stadium. From there, the return of Christian Gonzalez helped the Patriots’ pass defense improve, and all of that helped set up shorter drives for Drake Maye and the offense. It’s also great to see Stefon Diggs starting to get it going as the No. 1 receiver. New England moves to 2-2 on the season, but a Sunday Night Football bout against the Bills in Week 5 could be a bit of a buzzsaw for this momentum.

21. Minnesota Vikings (13)

Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

It’s the injuries to this Minnesota Vikings offensive line that are the most concerning moving forward. Four starters have been sidelined, and Carson Wentz has continued to demonstrate that his awful decision-making is never going away. It’s a recipe for disaster, specifically more turnovers, which cost Minnesota a win in Dublin on Sunday. It won’t get any easier with the Browns’ defensive line facing Minnesota’s offense in Week 5. An 0-2 international trip is very much on the table.

20. Dallas Cowboys (22)

Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

On the one hand, Jerry Jones can claim that his team took a perceived Super Bowl contender to the wire and pulled off a tie. On the other, it’s also not hard to imagine this Dallas Cowboys defense faring a bit better if it had Micah Parsons. Ultimately, the Cowboys get to walk off the feel on Sunday Night Football feeling great about a playoff-caliber offense that doesn’t even need a healthy CeeDee Lamb or its customary offensive line to put up 40 points.

19. Atlanta Falcons (20)

Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

What a rebound performance from Michael Penix Jr. and the Atlanta Falcons. While there aren’t necessarily must-win games in Week 4, this victory felt necessary for a team that has playoff aspirations but didn’t seem to have the quarterback play to make it happen. The stars in this offense (Drake London and Bijan Robninson) were put in a position for success and they delivered in a big way. All things considered, a 2-2 record with the offense on the upswing and the defense playing well is a good spot for Atlanta to be in.

18. Chicago Bears (19)

Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

The Chicago Bears don’t win that game a year ago. Either Caleb Williams throws a game-sealing interception or the special-teams unit doesn’t block the field goal. It wasn’t a pretty showing by this Bears’ offense, but Ben Johnson’s team found a way to steal a victory from the jaws of defeat on the road. Chicago is now 2-2 heading into its bye week, and while this rushing attack is non-existent, there’s at least hope in the Bears’ passing game. Now, we’d advise the front office to go trade for a starting-caliber running back.

17. Arizona Cardinals (15)

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The good news for the Arizona Cardinals is that their two losses against division opponents with winning records have been decided by 4 total points. Arizona also has to feel a bit better about that confidence-building fourth quarter that Marvin Harrison Jr. had on Thursday Night Football. Even with those positives, it’s evident that Arizona is still multiple pieces away on both sides of the ball from reaching that next tier in the NFC West. Fortunately, the Cards get a nice rebound matchup versus Tennessee in Week 5.

16. Baltimore Ravens (9)

Denny Medley-Imagn Images

It feels like the Baltimore Ravens’ Super Bowl window is slamming shut. The defense under coordinator Zach Orr, both due to on-field mistakes and bad coaching, has been awful against non-Browns teams this season. As for the Ravens’ offense, the absence of a true No. 1 receiver that defenses have to fear and poor play from the offensive line suggest this unit won’t be reaching the heights it did a year ago. If it’s not going to happen this season, which seems increasingly likely at 1-3, then when would it?

15. Washington Commanders (11)

Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Without Jayden Daniels and Terry McLaurin, the Washington Commanders needed this defense to deliver a strong performance. Instead, Dan Quinn’s group had its worst showing of the season. It drops the Commanders to 2-2, which, given the injuries, isn’t all that bad of a spot to be in. Daniels is also expected back in Week 5, and it’s a much-needed return for a matchup against the Chargers.

14. Denver Broncos (17)

Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

It matters that the success came against a top-10 defense, but Sean Payton should feel great about how this Denver Broncos offense looked on Monday Night Football. J.K. Dobbins became the team’s first 100-yard rusher in two years, RJ Harvey stood out as a No. 2 running back and Bo Nix was effective for the most part. If that can become a consistent theme, with the defense Denver already has, the Broncos will quickly start climbing their way back into the top 10 of our NFL power rankings.

13. San Francisco 49ers (8)

Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Nick Bosa’s absence was certainly felt on Sunday by the San Francisco 49ers, who finished without a quarterback hit or sack on Trevor Lawrence. With so much inexperience in the trenches, the Jaguars’ ground game also ate San Francisco’s defense alive. However, even that wasn’t enough for the 49ers to lose this one. It was Brock Purdy’s four turnovers and then a game-sealing punt return touchdown that doomed San Francisco. The 3-1 record is nice, but this certainly looks like a team that is moving backward fast, and injuries only play a moderate role in that.

12. Indianapolis Colts (7)

Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

There’s the Daniel Jones we’ve all seen prior to the 2025 NFL season. The Rams had the pass rush to make the Indianapolis Colts quarterback uncomfortable, and his history in those situations is why he didn’t have many options in free agency. Defensively, the Colts’ cornerbacks outside of Charvarius Ward were also really exposed in this one. Indianapolis is still 3-1 in a very winnable division, and 4-1 is on the table with a Week 5 home draw against the Raiders.

11. Pittsburgh Steelers (18)

Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

Some questionable decisions from Mike Tomlin nearly proved costly for the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin, but they still came out of Week 4 with a win. Pittsburgh’s defense still has some real issues defending the pass, but this pass rush has 11 sacks in the last two games and that has correlated to one of the highest takeaway rates in the NFL. It’s also become a more balanced team, with Kenneth Gainwell running well and Aaron Rodgers playing efficient football. Riding a two-game win streak into the bye, the Steelers are starting to look like a playoff-caliber team again.

10. Green Bay Packers (5)

Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

The Green Bay Packers’ problems start in the trenches. Missing two starters on the trenches has further exposed both the lack of depth Green Bay has and how poorly Elgton Jenkins is handling the move to center. On the defensive side, injuries have left the cupboard empty at defensive tackle and that’s led to consistently losing the battles in the trenches.

Green Bay also deserves crticism over its handling of the cornerback position this offseason. Nate Hobbs has been a disastrous signing and depth was always an issue behind Keisean Nixon. One thing is for certain, the 2-1-1 Packers desperately need this Week 5 bye to get healthier and figure out some of their issues. Hopefully for Green Bay, Jordan Love learns to manage that time off.

9. Jacksonville Jaguars (16)

Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

The Jacksonville Jaguars are some red-zone drops away from being 4-0. Plenty went right for Duval on Sunday—four takeaways and a punt return touchdown—but there’s something to be said about this team’s ability to find different paths to victory on Monday. It’s really the evolution of this Jaguars’ rushing attack, with Liam Coen unlocking Travis Etienne, that is standing out right now. Well, that and a Jaguars’ defense that creates takeaways like they are third-down stops. The Jaguars could surprise the Chiefs next week on Monday Night Football in Jacksonville.

8. Seattle Sehawks (14)

Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

It might not have been decisive of a Thursday Night Football win as the Seattle Seahawks expected entering the fourth quarter, but all that matters now is the 3-1 record. Seattle can also feel extremely confident about the rapport Sam Darnold has with Jaxon Smith-Njogba, especially in September. Darnold also desevers credit for his two big fourth-quarter throws against a stout Arizona defense. Now at 3-1, Seattle has provided itself a little margin for error ahead of a tough Week 5 home battle against Tampa Bay.

7. Los Angeles Chargers (3)

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

It felt like the Los Angeles Chargers‘ electricity got cut out after the Joe Alt injury. This offense found a way to survive after losing Rashawn Slater, but Alt’s departure in Week 4 dealt a catastrophic blow to this offense. Maybe the injury won’t keep him out for months, but starting two backup tackles against Washington next week could certainly result in Los Angeles going from 3-2 to 3-3.

6. Kansas City Chiefs (10)

Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

In a must-win game, the better quarterback delivered. Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs haven’t gotten Rashee Rice back yet, but that statement win over Baltimore inspired new confidence in the offense. Xavier Worthy’s return resulted in a 100-yard day, and his presence played an obvious role in Mahomes’ four-touchdown game. Kansas City seems to be returning to its championship-caliber form.

5. Los Angeles Rams (12)

Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Rams made sure not to let another victory slip in Week 4 after stealing defeat from the jaws of victory last Sunday against the Eagles. Puka Nacua feasted and paired with Kyren Williams; the two centerpieces of this offense combined for 264 scrimmage yards. Add to that a strong Rams’ pass rush pressuring Daniel Jones into mistakes, and you get a very impressive win by the Rams. Up next is a Thursday Night Football matchup against a 49ers team that just lost to Jacksonville.

4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4)

Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Tristan Wirfs and Chris Godwin return, only for Mike Evans to go down. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers‘ offense came out sluggish early, resulting in a 21-point deficit late in the first half. Once again, though, Baker Mayfield rallied this team and took the Eagles to the wire. Tampa Bay’s turnovers and red-zone issues are ultimately what cost them in a 31-25 loss, but the team has to feel like it still has what it takes to beat the Eagles if there is a rematch in the playoffs.

3. Detroit Lions (6)

Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Detroit Lions did what the Packers couldn’t versus Cleveland: protect the quarterback. It made all the difference and allowed the Lions’ offense to get into a bit more of a rhythm, especially with the short fields created by takeaways. While the Lions have two upcoming road games—versus Cincinnati and Kansas City—both are very winnable, and the organization has to feel so much more confident in this team as a Super Bowl contender than it did a few weeks ago.

2. Buffalo Bills (2)

Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

The Saints kept it close for a little while, at one point making it look like one of the best NFL teams in 2025 would become the next to lose to an undefeated club. Unlike the Packers and Chargers, though, Buffalo overcame some early missed opportunities by putting it away in the fourth quarter. The Bills are the unquestioned top team in the AFC right now, and their schedule provides a path to keep piling up victories.

1. Philadelphie Eagles (1)

Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

The Philadelphia Eagles have gotten their offense back on track a little bit since trailing the Rams by multiple scores last week, but its the special-teams and defensive stops that swung Sunday’s game against Tampa Bay. While the Buccaneers outgained the Eagles by a wide margin, Vic Fangio’s group locked things down in the red zone. Philadelphia improves to 8-0 and it has to feel confident about how its defense will fare versus Bo Nix.

Week 3

32. Miami Dolphins (32)

Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

The Miami Dolphins have a lot of problems, and when that’s the case, blame should first fall on the shoulders of the general manager. Once blame is assigned to Chris Grier, next on the list should be Tua Tagovailoa. One of the highest-paid NFL players now ranks 27th in Adjusted EPA per Play (-0.063), and the restraints he’s put on this Dolphins’ offense are apparent. Unfortunately for Miami, it’s stuck with him. That leaves Grier and Mike McDaniel as the ones to pay the price for what this team has become.

31. New Orleans Saints (29)

Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images

At least the New Orleans Saints were put out of their misery early on Sunday. It was over in the first quarter when Seattle took a 21-0 lead at home. That allowed the crowd to get wild and Mike Macdonald could give his defense the green light to match the stadium’s energy. As for the Saints, after a 0-3 start, it’s fair to wonder when we might hear NFL trade rumors about Alvin Kamara and Cameron Jordan.

Related: NFL Trade Candidates 2025, 8 Players Who Could be Moved this Season

30. Tennessee Titans (30)

Andrew Nelles / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

It’s really only about Tennessee Titans rookies Cam Ward and Elic Ayomanor at this point. There’s little else redeeming about this offense, with Calvin Ridley still failing to deliver on his contract and the offensive line struggling to protect the new face of the franchise. On the bright side for Tennessee, Ward continues to show franchise-caliber tools, and the 0-2 record means the front office can use premium draft capital to start building a better roster around him in the years to come.