Preseason Power Rankings

 

I disagree so adamantly with the power rankings I have come across this preseason that I felt it imperative to post my view on the best and the worst the NFL will have to offer in 2016.

First we the best of the best. 5 of my top 6 are from the NFC. I feel very confident that the Super Bowl champs are one of these elite half dozen squads.

1. Panthers Projected 13-3
2. Cardinals Projected 13-3
3. Packers Projected 12-4
4. Chiefs Projected 11-5
5. Seahawks Projected 11-5
6. Redskins Projected 11-5

Next we have the middle of the pack. Some of these teams will be wildcard teams and some may win their divisions with a record barely over .500 because of how weak those divisions are. I'd say the Saints, Ravens and Raiders have the best chance of missing the playoffs from this group.

7. Jaguars Projected 10-6
8. Vikings Projected 10-6
9. Bengals Projected 10-6
10. Bills Projected 9-7
11. Texans Projected 9-7
12. Broncos Projected 9-7
13. Ravens Projected 9-7
14. Raiders Projected 9-7
15. Saints Projected 9-7

Next up are the average to below average group. I know it's outrageous to some that I have the Steelers and Pats included in this group.  Oh well, it's my list. The Rams, Titans and Bucs are the real up and comers in this group. Watch out in 2017.

16. Patriots  Projected 8-8
17. Steelers Projected 8-8
18. Giants Projected 8-8
19. Bucs Projected 8-8
20. Falcons Projected 8-8
21. Titans Projected 7-9
22. Jets Projected 7-9
23. Eagles Projected 7-9
24. Rams Projected 7-9

Finally the dumpster juice of the league. A bunch of teams that are just lost. The Chargers battle with Joey Bosa is inexplicable. The Dolphins let their young homegrown talent walk in free agency... guys like Miller and Vernon were scouted, drafted and developed in south Florida. They are now on other teams and Miami got nothing for them. Head scratcher.

The 49ers and Lions simply have the wrong HC in charge. And, the Browns are in the midst of a LONG rebuilding project. Their defense will be the worst in the league in 2016. The Big question mark is Dallas. I think their offense could be special, even if Romo is sidelined. But even if Prescott lives up to his preseason hype, that doesn't make up for one of the weakest defenses in the game.

25. Cowboys Projected 6-10
26. Lions Projected 6-10
27. Chargers Projected 6-10
28. Bears Projected 6-10
29. Colts Projected 5-11
30. Dolphins Projected 5-11
31. 49ers Projected 5-11
32. Browns 4-12