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Power Ranking All 32 NFL Teams Heading Into 2020

Darren Ryding - May 15, 2020

Lists

Power Ranking All 32 NFL Teams Heading Into 2020

Darren Ryding - May 15, 2020

With the draft over and the upcoming NFL season starting to take shape, there isn’t a better time to power rank all the teams in the league. Will the Kansas City Chiefs be able to repeat their Super Bowl-winning efforts from last year or will another elite team take the league by storm?

We all miss live sports and most leagues are going to have to find solutions to their disrupted seasons. However, the NFL will hopefully escape most of that. So cross your fingers that fans will be able to watch games in September. With some incredible prospects in the draft and massive free agent moves, this has been an enthralling offseason. We’ve already taken a look at the upcoming best games from the recently-released 2020 NFL schedule.

Now it’s time to rank the teams from top to bottom. Check out the power rankings with certain data via ESPN.com below.

32. Washington Redskins

There’s no doubt about it, the Washington Redskins have been one of the weakest teams in the NFL for multiple years. As of today, they come in last in our power rankings right now. Coming off a 3-13 season, it’s going to be an uphill battle for them to do anything meaningful this season. And for the first time since 1982, the NFL didn’t give them a primetime match-up.

The addition of Chase Young is truly massive for the Redskins. He has megastar potential, and suddenly they have a very strong defensive line. Meanwhile, the Trent Williams debacle finally came to an end. In short, their work in the draft was excellent, but they’re still missing pieces to get back to being one of the league’s top teams.

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31. Jacksonville Jaguars

One of a few teams who seem to be perpetually rebuilding, the Jaguars are in a rebuilding phase. They didn’t select a quarterback in the draft so it looks like Gardner Minshew will take up the role of QB1. There is one coach present who’s good at getting the best out of young quarterbacks in new OC Jay Gruden.

They definitely focused their efforts on their defense in the offseason but their offense is still quite young. Furthermore, they’ve got a situation at running back following several rumors that former No. 4 overall pick Leonard Furnette could be traded. But Gruden has a better offensive record over the past six seasons than the Jaguars so there is hope. It the 2020 version of the Duval County-based Jags isn’t one of their best teams in years, head coach Doug Marrone will almost certainly be on the outs.

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30. New York Jets

Jets GM Joe Douglas had a very busy offseason. He rebuilt the offensive line, adding some new talent including No. 11 pick Mekhi Becton. Their line is definitely deeper than last season with increased support for young quarterback Sam Darnold. But it’s not all sunshine and roses.

Wide receiver Robby Anderson is a big loss. However, Denzel Mims is an exciting rookie so there is an upside. In sum, they’re looking at up to five new starters this year so it’s going to be a different Jets. At least, Douglas brings Super Bowl-winning maturity to the team. Still, for now, they remain near the bottom of all teams in the NFL.

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29. Detroit Lions

The Lions had the worst pass defense in the NFL last season. So they looked to fill that gap with their first pick at April’s draft. Ohio State’s Jeff Okudah has legitimate star potential. However, if they can’t even stay healthy, then they’re going to struggle through the season.

Much relies on Matthew Stafford’s recovery. The quarterback has had terrible back problems over the past couple of seasons, causing speculation that he might be traded or even retire. Keeping him fit is a gamechanger. He could be happy with back-to-back guard picks in rounds three and four. Regardless, the Lions are one of the worst teams in the NFL and still have a long, long way to go.

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28. Carolina Panthers

Matt Rhule comes in with a full tray. He made a huge statement by using all seven of their draft selections on defensive players. That makes the Panthers only the second team ever to use all of their picks on one side of the field. Will it pay off? We’re going to find out.

This was a smart tactic because they’re going to come up against wily veteran quarterbacks in Tom Brady and Drew Brees in the NFC South. However, it will be next to impossible to replace Luke Keuchly, so they look soft in the middle of the field. When it comes to offense, they have high hopes for free-agent signee Terry Bridgewater.

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27. New York Giants

The Giants are making progress, but they’re just not ready yet. Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley will both benefit from the addition of tackles Andrew Thomas and Matt Peart. This offseason was all about fixing the offense. Credit where it’s due, they’ve done that on paper.

However, this is a long-term play. They’re a very young team and it’s going to take time for them to settle into the pace of life in the NFL. But there is hope there, especially in the form of Alabama safety Xavier McKinney who looks like a stud. A playoff spot is not out of the question, but nor are there massive expectations.

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26. Chicago Bears

Who are the Bears going to pick at quarterback? Mitchell Trubisky and Nick Foles will fight it out for the starting spot. General Manager Ryan Pace is already under pressure. His decision to let Nick Kwiatkoski walk instead of Danny Trevathan was strange. The former is better and younger, so this could bite them.

Khalil Mack cost them their first and third-round picks in the draft, and he’s worth it. But they still got Cole Kmet, the perceived best tight end in the class. Jaylon Johnson also comes in as a touted cornerback. He could be an automatic starter as the Bears should rely heavily upon their defense.

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25. Miami Dolphins

Two words: Tua Tagovailoa. The Dolphins had an outstanding offseason. If he’s the player they think he is then they’ll be contenders in 2021. But how much will he actually play in his rookie season? As his agent, Leigh Steinberg, says, ‘top quarterbacks should sit in their rookie years.”

He also represents Patrick Mahomes so he knows what he’s talking about. They may need Tagovailoa now, however. You could argue that they also overpaid for some players like Ereck Flowers and Shaq Lawson. However, this is a new Miami side and one that could blossom into something spectacular.

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24. Houston Texans

The Texans are a tough team to predict this year. They’ve done some work on their defense which was definitely necessary, but more could have been made of the draft. Ross Blacklock was their first pick, selected 40th overall. However, the biggest news of the offseason was bad for Texans fans.

Many of them are still trying to come to terms with the DeAndre Hopkins trade. If things start badly big questions have to be asked of coach and GM Bill O’Brien for his decision-making. At least Deshaun Watson is a great quarterback, but you wouldn’t bet on them to win the Super Bowl this year.

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23. Cincinnati Bengals

Somehow, Mike Brown finally opened his purse strings this year. But that really doesn’t mean much. The failure to improve their defensive line is certainly to their detriment. That’s despite snatching up Joe Burrow, who should instantly improve the offense. Longtime quarterback Andy Dalton went to Cowboys. However, Burrow can’t do miracles.

Having said all that, this isn’t about this year. The Bengals haven’t won in the playoffs for years but Burrow could invigorate them over the next couple of seasons. With second-round pick Tee Higgins joining Tyler Boyd, AJ Green, and Joe Mixon on offense, there is talent there and potential for excitement.

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22. Las Vegas Raiders

Like a number of teams in these power rankings, the Raiders are in an odd quarterback position. Will they stick with Derek Carr, or is Marcus Mariota eventually going to be the starter? You’d assume it would be the former. They’ve brought in support for Carr in the form of first-round pick Henry Ruggs and fourth-round pick Bryan Edwards and look like a fun side.

Carr needs to take a few more risks this season if they’re going to make the most of it though. Ruggs looks like a superstar in the making. Along with Josh Jacobs and Darren Waller, that’s a strong core. Their linebacker options are much stronger too as they kick off in Sin City.

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21. Los Angeles Chargers

Tyrod Taylor is the Chargers’ starter. So that almost guarantees No. 6 overall pick Justin Herbert will be the starting quarterback after a few weeks. Herbert may take some time to develop so Taylor will hold down the fort until the 6′ 6″ prospect is ready. We don’t think it will take very long.

The Chargers supporting cast is still one of the best in the league, so that should make their attack exciting again. The Chargers also obtained Chris Harris and Linval Joseph to improve the defense. To sum up, General Manager Tom Telesco did a brilliant job in the offseason. Can the Chargers stun the AFC West? Probably not, but they’re making strides toward that goal.

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20. Cleveland Browns

Last year the Browns were unlikely favorites for the Super Bowl, which is crazy in hindsight. But Baker Mayfield has no more excuses. After a brilliant rookie season, he was awful last year. However, the Browns are sticking with him and showed faith by bringing in support in the form of an improved offensive line.

They brought in two tackles in the offseason so they’re already a physically stronger team. Jack Conklin and first-round pick Jedrick Wills fill in those gaps. Meanwhile, Odell Beckham Jr. remains a Brown. Keep him fit and their ceiling is high. Whether they deliver on that will remain to be seen.

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19. Los Angeles Rams

The Rams have obvious financial difficulties and that has prevented them from addressing some key areas of their roster. The departures of Cory Littleton and Dante Fowler hurt their defense significantly. Wade Phillips also departed along with his vast coaching experience.

Long story short, the Rams look younger and cheaper. It’s questionable just how sustainable that tactic is if you actually want to win something. It’s crazy to think that they were in a Super Bowl just 18 months ago. Sean McVey has a lot to do if he wants the Rams to reach those lofty heights again.

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18. New England Patriots

Jarrett Stidham, we’re looking at you. After the GOAT Tom Brady departed, the big question was who Bill Belichick had in mind as a replacement. The solution came in-house and suddenly we have the weakest Patriots team in a generation. When we talk about elite quarterbacks, is Stidham the man who comes to mind?

In short, this is definitely a team in transition. They may yet bring in a veteran to ease the burden on Stidham’s shoulders but the departures of Rob Gronowski and Kyle Van Noy also leave big shoulders to fill. To sum up, Bill Belichick is definitely going to win Coach of the Year, isn’t he?

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17. Denver Broncos

If the Broncos are going to do anything this season, Drew Lock is central to it. They’re starting to build a team around him properly. Jerry Jeudy comes in as the 15th overall pick in a position of obvious need as well as deep threat KJ Hamler.

Elway clearly has a lot of faith in Lock. If he’s right, the Broncos will contend in the AFC West. Furthermore, Melvin Gordon brings talent to the backfield. Don’t forget that they were just a couple of bogus penalties away from the playoffs. They really aren’t a bad team at all.

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16. Atlanta Falcons

After a very mixed season, Dan Quinn finds himself under pressure. A losing start like last year will almost certainly see him lose his job. Ironically their late resurgence may actually cost them this season. They could even have got Chase Young if they just wrote off the season.

The Falcons did bring in some useful reinforcements with Hayden Hurst coming in after the departure of Austin Hooper. However, AJ Terrell is one of the most surprising first-round picks. It addressed a need with their lack of strength at cornerback, yet many still felt it was a huge reach.

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15. Green Bay Packers

The Packers made headlines after their decision not to help Aaron Rodgers. In fact, they went totally the opposite direction, and that’s why they’re down the power rankings. Failing to bring in support for your quarterback is always a bad move. Drafting his replacement could be even worse.

They made the NFC Championship last year, but for some reason decided to trade up for Utah State quarterback Jordan Love. Love looks like an excellent prospect but Rodgers won’t make life very comfortable for him. As well as Love, they drafted Josiah Deguara from Cincinnati and Boston College’s A.J Dillon. It’s one of the most confusing drafts in recent memory. In short, they look like they’re going to come up short.

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14. Arizona Cardinals

The Cardinals are definitely one of the fastest-rising franchises in the NFL today. When they landed DeAndre Hopkins in March, it was a sign of ambition they had never shown before. They’ll be much improved, especially after improving their defense by drafting linebacker Isaiah Simmons.

Things are definitely looking up in Phoenix but this is still a growing roster and not a polished one. Expect them to be frustratingly inconsistent but a very enjoyable team to watch. This could be a season too early for them to make a dent in the playoffs, but next year will be a different story.

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13. Indianapolis Colts

The Colts definitely look like the strongest side in the AFC South, but it’s easy to doubt their chances of advancing in the playoffs. Having said that, landing Philip Rivers in free agency should help, but it’s tough to say. He did appear to fade fast with the Chargers in 2019.

Many expect Michael Pittman Jr. to be an Offensive Rookie of the Year contender. DeForest Buckner should also provide a strong boost to their interior defense. The Colts are definitely dark horses if Rivers can regain some of his past success. They’ll be tough to beat on their day.

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12. Pittsburgh Steelers

When you’ve got Ben Roethlisberger then you’re always within reach of something special. But let’s not pretend that he isn’t carrying this team because that’s definitely the position they’re in right now. However, if he stays healthy then the playoffs should be in sight for them.

The Steelers finished 8-8 despite terrible quarterback play when Roethlisberger went down last season. Notre Dame product Chase Claypool is a massive receiver with terrific speed. Furthermore, they finally brought in competition for running back James Conner. He needs to push on this season and help the Steelers step up their game.

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11. Philadelphia Eagles

Some feel the Eagles wasted a pick on Jalen Hurts. It was a bizarre choice when Carson Wentz has so much to give. There were a few shaken heads in Philly. But Wentz has been oft-injured, so it was a backup plan they felt they had to make.

With Wentz not the most durable athlete, it could prove to be a stroke of genius. Furthermore, they helped him out by drafting Jalon Reagor. He stood out in a mediocre college team and looks like he’s going to add a lot to their roster. Things could be worse in Philly.

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10. Seattle Seahawks

Not many people are talking about the Seahawks this year and that could suit them well. They were awful at getting to the quarterback last year so they’ll need to improve that. Will the re-sign Jadeveon Clowney? The three-time Pro Bowler only contributed three out of Seattle’s 28 sacks last season.

But when you have a quarterback with the outstanding talent of Russell Wilson, you’re always in the hunt for a win. As long as he’s in the picture, the Seahawks will always be in playoff contention. However, this is an immensely flawed side as well. That does make them intriguing.

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9. Minnesota Vikings

Rick Spielman was like a kid in a candy store during the 2020 NFL Draft. He made history by selecting an unprecedented 15 players, a new record. Of course, this leads to all kinds of question marks. But if this team can gel, then they’re going to be ready to go.

Can their defense be as good with so many players departing and coming in? Cornerbacks Jeff Gladney and Cameron Dantzler will have to settle in quickly. Meanwhile, Justin Jefferson inherits Stefon Diggs’ wide receiver spot. The LSU star looks ready to set the world on fire. Get your popcorn ready.

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8. Dallas Cowboys

CeeDee Lamb is one of the biggest names to come out of the draft and he should definitely inject even more speed into the Cowboys’ octane attack. Alongside Amari Cooper and Michael Gallup, they have an electric wide receiver group. Furthermore, their draft was truly excellent, with cornerback Trevon Diggs another phenomenal pick.

As good as their attack looks, they did suffer some huge losses on the defensive side of the ball in free agency. Byron Jones, Robert Quinn, Maliek Collins, and Robert Fredericks are all big losses. But their attack is great news for Dak Prescott. He’s in an enviable position with the talent around him.

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7. Tennessee Titans

The departure of offensive tackle Jack Conklin to the Cleveland Browns is an interesting one because they really relied on him. He opened holes for league rushing champion Derrick Henry so he could prove to be a big loss. However, their first-round pick Isaiah Wilson will raise the competition at right tackle.

Meanwhile, Darrynton Evans joins Henry in the backfield. With Henry set to play under the franchise tag, Evans’s development will be key this year. Ryan Tannehill had a career year in leading them to an unlikely AFC Championship berth last year. The Titans will offer a lot of runs but we’re not sure about that offense. Can they make it to the playoffs again this year?

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6. Buffalo Bills

The Bills look like the best team in the AFC East this year. Stefon Diggs is a great addition and could help to bring the best out of Josh Allen. If Allen’s passing game blossoms, the Bills could develop into one of the best teams in the league. A lot of expectation rests on his shoulders.

However, it’s not all about the attack. They’ve also made a lot of moves to strengthen their defense and appear more balanced as a result. Meanwhile, A.J Epensa should reduce the sense of loss from the departure of Shaq Lawson. It’s an exciting time to be a member of the Bills Mafia.

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5. Tampa Bay Buccanneers

Adding the former Patriots pair of Tom Brady and Rob Gronowski was definitely going to boost them up the power rankings. Meanwhile, the addition of tackle Tristan Wirfs could prove just as important. It’s definitely an exciting time to be a Bucs fan as they hope to be the first team to win a Super Bowl at home.

That might be too much for them, but they’re definitely amongst the most hyped teams this year. They’re definitely one of the favorites to win the NFC now too. The Bucs also added dynamic receiver Tyler Johnson in the fifth round of the draft as well as running back Ke’Shawn Vaughn. On paper, they look very strong.

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4. New Orleans Saints

At the age of 41, Drew Brees shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, his style of play could enable him to be effective for another couple of years. That’s good news for the Saints because they’ll need him as they look to push through the playoffs and land Brees a second Super Bowl.

Adding Emmanuel Sanders is definitely their best piece of offseason work as he fills a position they’ve underwhelmed in for years. He’s excited to play for a pass-happy offense. If the Saints get into gear, then they could be sensational to watch. That is unless the officials hang them out to dry again.

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3. San Francisco 49ers

Landing seven-time Pro Bowler Trent Williams was a great move for the 49ers. The left tackle should definitely add to their overall quality as they look to go one better than last season. If he’s anything like the player he was before taking a break from the NFL, this is a steal.

However, Jimmy Garoppolo needs to evolve his game. With the departure of DeForest Buckner, he’s going to have to do more and hold onto the ball less than before. Meanwhile, first-round receiver Brandon Aiyuk looks like a great prospect. The 49ers should be close to a Super Bowl berth or thereabouts again.

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2. Baltimore Ravens

After coming up short in the playoffs again, the Ravens had an outstanding draft and filled several holes 0n the team. It already looks like they’ll be more of a threat in the playoffs this season. They’ll be anxious to reduce the pressure on Lamar Jackson’s shoulders. After his NFL MVP season, that will be difficult.

Just how much will they miss Marshal Yanda? He was one of the top guards in the NFL last season and an important defensive foil for Jackson. However, this could benefit Jaylon Ferguson, who will look to make more of a statement after a quiet rookie season.

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1. Kansas City Chiefs

It’s as you were for the Chiefs. After their sensational Super Bowl-winning season, they’ll be looking to carry that momentum into the new season. The best thing they’ve done isn’t drafting anybody new. In short, they’ve kept the core of their team together and they have the best quarterbacks in the league in Patrick Mahomes.

They did add dangerous LSU product Clyde Edwards-Helaire in the draft. They’ll hope that he eventually proves to be an upgrade on Damien Williams as their featured back. He certainly could add a new dimension to their already frightening attack. Things look very good for Kansas City in 2020, and they’re understandably ranked at the top of all teams in the NFL.

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Power Ranking All 32 NFL Teams Heading Into 2020

Power Ranking All 32 NFL Teams Heading Into 2020

32. Washington Redskins

31. Jacksonville Jaguars

30. New York Jets

29. Detroit Lions

28. Carolina Panthers

27. New York Giants

26. Chicago Bears

25. Miami Dolphins

24. Houston Texans

23. Cincinnati Bengals

22. Las Vegas Raiders

21. Los Angeles Chargers

20. Cleveland Browns

19. Los Angeles Rams

18. New England Patriots

17. Denver Broncos

16. Atlanta Falcons

15. Green Bay Packers

14. Arizona Cardinals

13. Indianapolis Colts

12. Pittsburgh Steelers

11. Philadelphia Eagles

10. Seattle Seahawks

9. Minnesota Vikings

8. Dallas Cowboys

7. Tennessee Titans

6. Buffalo Bills

5. Tampa Bay Buccanneers

4. New Orleans Saints

3. San Francisco 49ers

2. Baltimore Ravens

1. Kansas City Chiefs

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