Week 1 NFL Power Rankings Overview
This article is part of The Athletic NFL Power Rankings, where Josh Kendall evaluates all 32 teams from best to worst each week.
As the season kicks off, the Philadelphia Eagles hold the top position, mirroring their finish from last season. However, they face pressure from emerging challengers like the Green Bay Packers, bolstered by their new pass rusher.
Ranking Breakdown
1. Philadelphia Eagles
Last Ranking: 1
The Eagles maintained their top ranking through a calm training camp. The primary concern lies in the secondary, with no clear second cornerback and second-round rookie safety Andrew Mukuba recovering from a hamstring injury, limiting the unit’s adaptability. Philadelphia secured cornerback Jakorian Bennett through a trade, but veteran Adoree’ Jackson is likely to claim that position.
Upcoming: vs. Cowboys, Thursday, 8:20 p.m. ET
2. Baltimore Ravens
Last Ranking: 2
This offseason, Ravens defensive coordinators may not have foreseen the need for more offensive weapons. Yet, Keaton Mitchell, who averaged 7.6 yards per carry in the preseason, showcased the explosive potential he displayed before his injuries. Although tight end Isaiah Likely’s status is uncertain due to a foot injury, he remains on the 53-man roster.
Upcoming: at Bills, Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET
3. Green Bay Packers
Last Ranking: 5
Green Bay’s defense excelled last year with a +7.1 in expected points added per 100 snaps, despite lacking a top sack leader. The addition of Micah Parsons, who has recorded at least 12 sacks every season, along with Rashan Gary, enhances the team’s formidable pass rush, establishing the Packers as serious contenders.
Upcoming: vs. Lions, Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET
4. Buffalo Bills
Last Ranking: 3
Buffalo enjoyed a flawless preseason with no significant setbacks. After winning his first MVP award, quarterback Josh Allen opted out of the preseason games while running back James Cook secured a new contract after a civil hold-in. The team is now poised for their game against the Ravens.
Upcoming: vs. Ravens, Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET
5. Kansas City Chiefs
Last Ranking: 4
Rashee Rice will begin the season on a six-game suspension due to legal issues following a car accident in 2024. However, this won’t severely impede a team aiming for playoff success as rookie tackle Josh Simmons emerged positively in training camp.
Upcoming: at Chargers, Friday, 8 p.m. ET
6. Detroit Lions
Last Ranking: 7
The Lions ascended in the rankings due to Aidan Hutchinson’s impressive performances during training camp. Hutchinson, returning from a broken leg, has dominated practice to the extent that his early dominance could signify a strong season ahead.
Upcoming: at Packers, Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET
7. Washington Commanders
Last Ranking: 6
The spotlight in Washington fell on wide receiver Terry McLaurin, who secured a three-year, $87 million extension. Meanwhile, running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt gained attention with a stellar preseason, leading the team to trade veteran Brian Robinson Jr. to the 49ers.
Upcoming: vs. Giants, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
8. Houston Texans
Last Ranking: 8
Free-agent safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson has made a surprise recovery and will start on the 53-man roster. In contrast, Joe Mixon has been placed on the reserve/NFI list, raising questions about his return.
Upcoming: at Rams, Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET
9. Cincinnati Bengals
Last Ranking: 12
Trey Hendrickson recently signed a new contract just before the season. His return is crucial as the defense faltered in his absence during the preseason. With Burrow officially off general manager duties, the team has secured key contracts, allowing him to focus on scoring points.
Upcoming: at Browns, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
10. Minnesota Vikings
Last Ranking: 10
Justin Jefferson’s training camp was affected by a hamstring injury, yet he is expected to be ready for Week 1. Challenges loom for the receiving corps as Jordan Addison faces a three-game suspension, and Rondale Moore suffered a season-ending injury.
Upcoming: at Bears, Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET
Remaining Teams
11. Los Angeles Rams
Last Ranking: 9
The upcoming season has raised concerns about Matthew Stafford’s back, as he only returned to practice recently. The team’s outlook appears shaky without a strong showing from their veteran quarterback.
Upcoming: vs. Texans, Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET
12. Los Angeles Chargers
Last Ranking: 11
A critical injury for the Chargers occurred when left tackle Rashawn Slater was ruled out for the season with a knee injury. Additionally, running back Najee Harris missed time due to a bizarre fireworks incident.
Upcoming: vs. Chiefs, Friday, 8 p.m. ET
13. Denver Broncos
Last Ranking: 14
An impressive training camp by edge rusher Jonah Elliss could make the Broncos’ pass rush more formidable, having already finished third in sacks last season.
Upcoming: vs. Titans, Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET
14. Pittsburgh Steelers
Last Ranking: 13
In a positive turn of events, rookie Derrick Harmon survived a knee injury that initially seemed season-ending and will start the season on the 53-man roster.
Upcoming: at Jets, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
15. San Francisco 49ers
Last Ranking: 15
Christian McCaffrey had a quiet but healthy training camp. However, uncertainty surrounds his receiving options given recent trades and injuries among the receiver group.
Upcoming: at Seahawks, Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET
16. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Last Ranking: 16
After missing training camp due to surgery, Tristan Wirfs was activated from the PUP list, suggesting he could play early in the season.
Upcoming: at Falcons, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
17. Seattle Seahawks
Last Ranking: 18
The Seahawks’ defense showed promise last season after Week 10, and improvements in training camp may position them as strong competitors in the NFC West.
Upcoming: vs. 49ers, Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET
18. Las Vegas Raiders
Last Ranking: 19
Amari Cooper’s return to the Raiders highlights changes in the receiver corps, which has seen significant challenges, including trade requests from other players.
Upcoming: at Patriots, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
19. Miami Dolphins
Last Ranking: 20
Tyreek Hill’s newfound understanding of the Dolphins’ offense could elevate his already impressive performance, while running back De’Von Achane’s readiness for Week 1 remains uncertain.
Upcoming: at Colts, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
20. Dallas Cowboys
Last Ranking: 17
Frustration abounds among Cowboys fans regarding owner Jerry Jones’ controversial trade of Micah Parsons, a significant player who now poses a threat with the Packers.
Upcoming: at Eagles, Thursday, 8:20 p.m. ET
21. Chicago Bears
Last Ranking: 21
General manager Ryan Poles provided insights into quarterback Caleb Williams’ mixed training camp performances, indicating a challenging start for the Bears this season.
Upcoming: vs. Vikings, Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET
22. Arizona Cardinals
Last Ranking: 22
Six new defensive starters could make the Cardinals a surprising defensive force, bolstered by impressive training camp performances.
Upcoming: at Saints, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
23. New England Patriots
Last Ranking: 23
Rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson had a strong start to his career with a 100-yard kickoff return, although his role may be limited behind established players early in the season.
Upcoming: vs. Raiders, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
24. Atlanta Falcons
Last Ranking: 24
After trading a first-round pick, the Falcons look to activate pass rusher James Pearce Jr., who gained attention in training camp with his competitive spirit.
Upcoming: vs. Buccaneers, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
25. Jacksonville Jaguars
Last Ranking: 25
Travis Hunter’s dual-threat capabilities are being tested, as he participates in both offensive and defensive drills ahead of his NFL debut.
Upcoming: vs. Panthers, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
26. New York Jets
Last Ranking: 26
Questions loom for the Jets regarding Breece Hall’s recovery and his possible competition with Braelon Allen as they gear up for the new season.
Upcoming: vs. Steelers, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
27. Carolina Panthers
Last Ranking: 28
Following their draft decisions, the Panthers are optimistic about their rookie receiving corps, but injuries have forced them to sign new talent.
Upcoming: at Jaguars, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
28. Indianapolis Colts
Last Ranking: 27
The Colts face an uncertain future with quarterback Daniel Jones winning the starting role over Anthony Richardson, as the team’s direction remains unclear.
Upcoming: vs. Dolphins, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
29. New Orleans Saints
Last Ranking: 29
The Saints have entered a quarterback competition between Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler, suggesting a potentially turbulent season ahead.
Upcoming: vs. Cardinals, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
30. New York Giants
Last Ranking: 30
With Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback, the pressure is on as rookie Jaxson Dart shows promise and may challenge Wilson’s position early.
Upcoming: at Commanders, Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
31. Tennessee Titans
Last Ranking: 31
No. 1 overall pick Cam Ward has impressed his teammates during preseason, making the Titans a team to watch, especially if they improve on last year’s performance.
Upcoming: at Broncos, Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET
32. Cleveland Browns
Last Ranking: 32
With Joe Flacco named the starting quarterback, the Browns’ plans seem uncertain, as they navigate a season anticipated to be challenging.
