Back to the Top News Newsfeed

NFL Power Rankings 2018: Breaking Down Preseason Look at League's Pecking Order

Last year's NFL standings have no place in 2018 prognostication.

Three of 2016's last-place squads—not including the 4-12 Los Angeles Rams—joined four playoff teams in the 2017 postseason. As the 11-5 New York Giants cratered to 2-14, the 7-9 Philadelphia Eagles ascended to championship glory.

Some of last year's triumphs will stumble. A butterfly flapping its wings or a star tearing his ACL can turn a 10-win playoff squad into a six-win dud. Some, meanwhile, will rise to relevance with a few key upgrades, better health and/or close losses turning into narrow victories.

Keep this in mind when perusing the preseason power rankings.