Julio Jones Effect – AFC power rankings after Titans trade
Where do the Tennessee Titans stack up with the rest of the AFC after acquiring Julio Jones? We break down the AFC power rankings.
10. New England Patriots
We won’t go through all 16 teams, because why bother with the bottom of the proverbial barrel? The Patriots could start a rookie quarterback in Mac Jones or go with veteran Cam Newton. If either plays well, they’re a playoff team.
9. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers went 12-4 last year but fell apart down the stretch before being blown out against the Browns in the Wild Card round. Pittsburgh lost a ton in free agency and the draft wasn’t overwhelming, but the Steelers remain a playoff contender.
8. Los Angeles Chargers
What is to become of head coach Brandon Staley? In his first year at the helm, Staley takes over a team trying to find its identity defensively but already with one firmly on offense in second-year quarterback Justin Herbert. He’s going to be a superstar.
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7. Miami Dolphins
It’s all about Tua Tagovailoa and his development. The Dolphins have a good defense and an excellent coach. The weaponry isn’t incredibly talented but good enough. If Tagovailoa steps up, so too will Miami.
6. Indianapolis Colts
Another team that will rise and fall with the quarterback question. Is Carson Wentz devolving into what he was with the Philadelphia Eagles last year, or does he recapture old glory? If it’s the latter, Indy is a tough out.
5. Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens have made the playoffs three straight seasons and should make it a fourth in 2021. Lamar Jackson is limited as a passer but his talent is undeniable and the defense remains strong. Also, the receivers are very intriguing.
Read: 2021 NFL Season – 5 Teams Who Will Fight For No. 1 Pick
4. Tennessee Titans
With Julio Jones in tow, the Titans get a bump. If they don’t have Jones, I’d have slotted them just behind Indianapolis. The offense should be one of the NFL’s best, making up for a very shoddy defense.
3. Cleveland Browns
The Browns deserve this spot. The roster is one of the most talented — of not the most talented — in football, and while quarterback Baker Mayfield has his limitations, Cleveland is loaded up offensively. The defense is the big question, but upgrades were made.
2. Buffalo Bills
Buffalo is the biggest threat to the Chiefs, and it’s hard to make a case otherwise. The Bills have a great offense, a solid defense and excellent coaching.
1. Kansas City Chiefs
The best until proven otherwise.
