NFL power rankings: NFC as we enter training camps
With training camps opening in full next week, let’s look at some NFL power rankings and how the NFC is shaping up.
16. Detroit Lions
The Lions are in a complete rebuild, which is basically their constant state. Only one playoff win since 1957.
15. Philadelphia Eagles
Jalen Hurts and Nick Sirianni are getting a chance to grow together as the future for Philadelphia at quarterback and head coach respectively.
14. Carolina Panthers
Sam Darnold gets another shot. If he can take advantage, perhaps Carolina surprises some. If not, it’s a long year for the Panthers.
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13. Atlanta Falcons
Matt Ryan is still a very good quarterback, but the defense is a total mess and the offense has Kyle Pitts and Calvin Ridley, but no Julio Jones.
12. Chicago Bears
If Andy Dalton gets a good chunk of the season, this offense is anemic. It’s basically Allen Robinson and David Montgomery.
11. New Orleans Saints
Jameis Winston or Taysom Hill? Either way, the Saints have a problem at quarterback, and now Michael Thomas is likely out for at least the first month of the season.
10. New York Giants
Now the NFC East portion of the power rankings. If Daniel Jones is decent, the weapons are fantastic. If not, the rest is all window-dressing.
9. Dallas Cowboys
Dak Prescott is healthy and the offense should be one of the league’s best. Now, can it overcome the defense and coaching? Who can tell.
8. Washington Football Team
The defense is a top-five unit, and the offense has a nice group of weapons. However, what is Washington getting from Ryan Fitzpatrick?
Read: NFL Power Rankings – AFC As We Enter Training Camp
7. Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals have a ton of talent, but the division is brutal. Arizona could legitimately win nine games and finish in last place.
6. Minnesota Vikings
Kirk Cousins has Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen to target, and Dalvin Cook to give the ball. The defense has plenty of new blood. A potential contender.
5. San Francisco 49ers
If the 49ers stay healthy, they’re going to be a Super Bowl contender. Few teams have a better roster.
4. Los Angeles Rams
Matthew Stafford gives the Rams a new identity offensively. If the defense doesn’t take a step back, Los Angeles will play deep into January.
3. Green Bay Packers
This offseason saw Aaron Rodgers publicly demand a divorce. It can’t be good for morale, but the Packers remain loaded.
2. Seattle Seahawks
The Seahawks have defensive issues, but the offense, coaching and quarterback are elite. It’s enough to win it all.
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The defending champs brought everyone back. They remain the favorite to reach the Super Bowl out of the NFC.
