NFL power rankings: AFC as we enter training camps
In these NFL power rankings, let’s take a look at how the AFC stacks up with training camps only days away.
16. Houston Texans
Without Deshaun Watson, the Texans re lucky to win three games. With him, they might win four. Either way, Houston is about to embark on a long, painful season.
15. Jacksonville Jaguars
Trevor Lawrence provides excitement and the offense has talent, but the defense has ample holes and Urban Meyer is off to a rough start in Duval.
14. New York Jets
Maybe the Jets are a surprise team. If Zach Wilson and Robert Saleh prove to be a power couple, it’s possible, but that’s a tough ask in a good division.
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13. Cincinnati Bengals
Joe Burrow is back from a torn ACL and the offense has weapons, but this could be the league’s worst defense. Tough to see Cincinnati stopping teams.
12. Las Vegas Raiders
The offensive line was a strength, now it’s in tatters. Derek Carr and Josh Jacobs need a strong front, and without one, this is a middling offense with a bad defense behind it.
11. Denver Broncos
Great roster, but there’s no quarterback. With due respect to Drew Lock and Teddy Bridgewater, Denver is sunk with them as the options.
10. New England Patriots
The Patriots spent ore than $250 million on free agents this offseason, and might be one win better. Again, who is playing quarterback?
9. Pittsburgh Steelers
In Pittsburgh, it’s Ben Roethlisberger playing quarterback, but he’s likely in his final year there. The Steelers lost a ton this offseason, including three stalwarts on the offensive line.
Read: 5 NFL Teams Poised To Disappoint in 2021
8. Indianapolis Colts
It’s all about Carson Wentz. If he’s good, the Colts shoot up the list. If not, they could go 6-11.
7. Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins have an excellent coach, one of the league’s better defenses and some nice offensive weapons. If Tua Tagovailoa steps up in his second year, this team can contend.
6. Los Angeles Chargers
Love Justin Herbert and the offensive line built in front of him. The defense could take a step back with some losses this offseason, but the Chargers should be a playoff team.
5. Tennessee Titans
What to make of Tennessee? The offense is great if it runs through Derrick Henry. If it becomes pass-heavy, can Ryan Tannehill handle that burden? Also, what is the defense?
4. Baltimore Ravens
Here we get to the heavy hitters. Lamar Jackson is special, the defense is good and the offense unique. Is it enough to finally get over the hump in January?
3. Cleveland Browns
The Browns might have the most talented roster in the AFC. The question is whether Baker Mayfield can beat Josh Allen or Patrick Mahomes in the playoffs, with both also having great rosters around them.
2. Buffalo Bills
Almost the exact roster from a year ago. Is this finally the time for the talented Bills?
1. Kansas City Chiefs
No need for NFL Power Rankings here. Until further notice, the AFC clearly runs through Kansas City.
