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2018 NFL Power Rankings Discussion


Mike75
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The last couple months i have spent time putting together a list i do annually here of the NFL Power Rankings heading into the regular season. What it is is a guide listing all teams and about what place they will be once the season starts. After the season starts though there will be surprises as there are every season. Anyway what i'd love is opinions i do these myself. Did i put a team too high or too low?  Would love to hear any feedback...................

 

 

Also since the following list was my opinion on how things will go i will also be printing media opinions from other publications to see how they compare with what i did over the past two months as we did these in the recent countdown going from #32 all the way down to #1........

 

 

 

2018 NFL Power Rankings Countdown

 

#32:New York Jets

 

#31 Cleveland Browns

 

#30:Miami Dolphins

 

#29:Indianapolis Colts

 

#28:Chicago Bears

 

#27:Tampa Bay Buccaneers

 

#26:Buffalo Bills

 

#25:Washington Redskins

 

#24:Cincinnati Bengals

 

#23:Denver Broncos

 

#22:New York Giants

 

#21:Oakland Raiders

 

#20:Arizona Cardinals

 

#19:Baltimore Ravens

 

#18:Seattle Seahawks

 

#17:Houston Texans

 

#16:Detroit Lions

 

#15:San Francisco 49ers

 

#14:Dallas Cowboys

 

#13:L.A. Chargers

 

#12:Tennessee Titans

 

#11:Kansas City Chiefs

 

#10:Atlanta Falcons

 

#9:Carolina Panthers

 

#8:Jacksonville Jaguars

 

#7:Pittsburgh Steelers

 

#6:New Orleans Saints

 

#5:Green Bay Packers

 

#4:L.A. Rams

 

#3:Minnesota Vikings

 

#2:New England Patriots

 

#1:Philadelphia Eagles

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The list below is ESPN.COM

 

ESPN rankings

 

1. Philadelphia Eagles

2017 record: 13-3
Post-free-agency ranking: 1

The reigning champions drafted Dallas Goedert in Dallas one spot ahead of Dallas. It was one of just five Eagles picks (and the only one in the first three rounds), but it was an effective troll job and a useful choice, as Philly likes its tight ends. No team had more receptions by tight ends last season.

 

 

2. New England Patriots

2017 record: 13-3
Post-free-agency ranking: 2

It's no surprise that the Patriots used their first pick on an offensive tackle after losing Nate Solder in free agency. What might have surprised, though, was the selection of Sony Michel at 31st overall, with an abundance of running backs already in New England. Michel is just the second back Bill Belichick has drafted in the first round with the Patriots. (Laurence Maroney was the first in 2006.)

 

 

3. Pittsburgh Steelers

2017 record: 13-3
Post-free-agency ranking: 5

Ben Roethlisberger plans to play for another three to five years, but the Steelers addressed the future with the third-round selection of Mason Rudolph. It's the earliest the Steelers have drafted a quarterback since they took Roethlisberger in the first round of the 2004 draft.

 

 

4. New Orleans Saints

2017 record: 11-5
Post-free-agency ranking: 4

The Saints had the second-most snaps from rookies in 2017 and produced one of the best classes ever with Alvin Kamara, Ryan Ramczyk, Marshon Lattimore and Marcus Williams. It'll be tough for this year's class to replicate that success, but any contributions will benefit FPI's third-best team from 2017.

 

 

5. Minnesota Vikings

2017 record: 13-3
Post-free-agency ranking: 3

After doling out $84 million guaranteed to Kirk Cousins in free agency, the Vikings opted to continue building up a defense that allowed the fewest points last season in the early rounds of the draft. Cornerback Mike Hughes (No. 30) and defensive end Jalyn Holmes (102) join a stacked unit.

 

 

6. Los Angeles Rams

2017 record: 11-5
Post-free-agency ranking: 6

The Rams didn't make a pick until the third round, but they still walked away with 11 selections and a clear strategy. After bolstering the secondary with trades, they used seven of their picks on offensive and defensive linemen. They hadn't selected seven linemen in a single draft since the 1970s.

 

 

7. Jacksonville Jaguars

2017 record: 10-6
Post-free-agency ranking: 8

The Jaguars used two of their first three selections on defenders, because finishing second in points allowed last season clearly wasn't good enough. A scary unit that featured six Pro Bowlers gets potentially scarier with the additions of defensive tackle Taven Bryan (No. 29) and safety Ronnie Harrison (93).

 

 

8. Atlanta Falcons

2017 record: 10-6
Post-free-agency ranking: 7

The Falcons drafted wide receiver Calvin Ridley in the first round. Their past two first-round receivers? Roddy White and Julio Jones, who currently sit first and second on the franchise's all-time receiving list.

 

 

9. Green Bay Packers

2017 record: 7-9
Post-free-agency ranking: 9

The Packers used their first two picks on defensive backs -- just as they did in 2015 and 2017. They also allowed the second-most passing touchdowns (30) last season, so that investment needs to start paying off.

 

 

10. Kansas City Chiefs

2017 record: 10-6
Post-free-agency ranking: 14

The Chiefs were 28th in total defense in 2017 -- their worst finish since 2009, when they went 4-12 -- which led to their becoming the first team in the common draft era (1967) to select only defensive players in a single draft.

 

 

11. Carolina Panthers

2017 record: 11-5
Post-free-agency ranking: 12

Cam Newton texted a cryptic "thank you" to coach Ron Rivera after the Panthers drafted wide receiver D.J. Moore at 24th overall. There's good reason for that. Newton averaged 120 passing yards per game to his wide receivers last season, the lowest mark of his career.

 

 

12. Los Angeles Chargers

2017 record: 9-7
Post-free-agency ranking: 15

The Chargers allowed the third-fewest points last season, but that didn't stop them from reloading the defense. They used their first four picks on defenders for the second time in the common draft era, landing Scouts Inc.'s seventh-ranked prospect, safety Derwin James, at No. 17.

 

 

13. Tennessee Titans

2017 record: 9-7
Post-free-agency ranking: 16

Perhaps it's no surprise that after making former linebacker Mike Vrabel the head coach, the Titans selected two linebackers in the first two rounds for the first time in the common draft era. That accounted for half of the Titans' league-low four selections.

 

 

14. Dallas Cowboys

2017 record: 9-7
Post-free-agency ranking: 17

The Cowboys didn't address pass-catchers until the third round, and while they had other needs, the weapons around quarterback Dak Prescott are looking pretty light. Dez Bryant was released, and Jason Witten is headed to the broadcast booth. Those two rank first and third on the Cowboys' all-time receiving touchdowns list.

 

 

15. San Francisco 49ers

2017 record: 6-10
Post-free-agency ranking: 11

The 49ers opted to use their first couple of picks to get QB Jimmy Garoppolo help, drafting offensive tackle Mike McGlinchey in the first round and wide receiver Dante Pettis in the second. Garoppolo had the best Total QBR over the final five weeks of 2017. Now he'll have an offseason with new talent to develop.

 

 

16. Seattle Seahawks

2017 record: 9-7
Post-free-agency ranking: 13

Seattle pairing linebacker Shaquem Griffin with his twin brother, Shaquill, was the feel-good moment of the draft. Beyond that, it's fair to question some of the Seahawks' choices. Among them: not taking an offensive lineman until the fifth round, when Russell Wilson was the most pressured quarterback last season.

 

 

17. Houston Texans

2017 record: 4-12
Post-free-agency ranking: 10

The Texans didn't have a first-round pick for the first time in franchise history and didn't make a selection until the third, but their first pick might've been worth the wait. Safety Justin Reid was the 39th-best prospect according to Scouts Inc., so he's a nice value at No. 68.

 

 

18. Washington Redskins

2017 record: 7-9
Post-free-agency ranking: 20

Alabama has been the gold standard in college football under Nick Saban, so you can't fault the Redskins for trying to replicate that success. They've selected four Crimson Tide defenders in the past two drafts, including defensive tackles Jonathan Allen (2017) and Da'Ron Payne (2018) in the first round. That should help fix a league-worst rush defense.

 

 

19. Oakland Raiders

2017 record: 6-10
Post-free-agency ranking: 21

According to Elias Sports Bureau, the Raiders became the first team to go without an interception in their first 10 games last season. They took five players before addressing defensive back in the draft, but coach Jon Gruden's plan seems clear: Build the line. The team's first four picks were offensive and defensive linemen.

 

 

20. Detroit Lions

2017 record: 9-7
Post-free-agency ranking: 18

The Lions ranked last in rushing yards and yards per rush last season, so coach Matt Patricia & Co. prioritized that in the draft. It started with some bulk, adding center Frank Ragnow at 20th overall. Then they added second-round running back Kerryon Johnson, whom they hope will be their first 100-yard rusher since Reggie Bush on Thanksgiving 2013.

 

 

21. Denver Broncos

2017 record: 5-11
Post-free-agency ranking: 19

Defensive end Bradley Chubb fell into the Broncos' lap at fifth overall, and if he pans out, the tandem of Chubb and Von Miller could be devastating to opposing quarterbacks. The Broncos ranked 22nd in sacks last season, but they pressured quarterbacks at the third-highest rate.

 

 

22. Baltimore Ravens

2017 record: 9-7
Post-free-agency ranking: 24

Ozzie Newsome used his last draft as Ravens general manager to orchestrate the second-most draft-day trades (six) and make a league-high 12 selections. It seemed the priority would be to get quarterback Joe Flacco some help, after he ranked last in yards per attempt last season, and the Ravens did draft multiple tight ends and wide receivers. They also drafted Flacco's heir apparent, Lamar Jackson.

 

 

23. Arizona Cardinals

2017 record: 8-8
Post-free-agency ranking: 29

The Cardinals ranked 25th in scoring in 2017 after finishing in the top six the previous two seasons. They used five of their six picks on offensive players, but none more important than quarterback Josh Rosen at 10th overall. Seeing as Sam Bradford has played 16 games only twice in seven seasons, Rosen will likely get his shot in 2018.

 

 

24. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

2017 record: 5-11
Post-free-agency ranking: 25

The Buccaneers had big needs on defense after allowing a league-worst 6.0 yards per play last season, and they continued to address those in the draft. They grabbed defensive tackle Vita Vea in the first round, then a pair of corners in the second, making this the first time since 1995 that they drafted three defenders in the first two rounds. The Bucs got future Pro Football Hall of Famers Warren Sapp and Derrick Brooks in that previous haul.

 

 

25. Buffalo Bills

2017 record: 9-7
Post-free-agency ranking: 23

When the Bills drafted Josh Allen at seventh overall, they became just the third team in the common draft era to select a quarterback in the top 10 after making the playoffs the previous season. Quarterback was a necessity after they traded Tyrod Taylor, and now the franchise's hopes will rest on the shoulders of its first top-10 QB.

 

 

26. New York Giants

2017 record: 3-13
Post-free-agency ranking: 27

Say what you will about the Giants' draft strategy, but they did walk away with the player many believe was the best prospect in the class: running back Saquon Barkley. The Giants haven't had a 1,000-yard rusher since 2012 (Ahmad Bradshaw), and their running backs ranked 27th in yards per touch last season (4.4).

 

 

27. New York Jets

2017 record: 5-11
Post-free-agency ranking: 26

The Jets haven't been bad at picking quarterbacks in the first round since the common draft era. They've just been mediocre. The first four all started more than 50 games for the Jets, but they combined to go 157-164-2. Sam Darnold will look to change that.

 

 

28. Chicago Bears

2017 record: 5-11
Post-free-agency ranking: 28

The Bears drafted linebacker Roquan Smith eighth overall, the earliest they've drafted a defensive player since 1990, when they took safety Mark Carrier sixth overall. They're hoping Smith can transform the defense the way another top-10 linebacker did for them; the Bears had the best scoring defense the season after selecting Brian Urlacher ninth overall in 2000.

 

 

29. Cincinnati Bengals

2017 record: 7-9
Post-free-agency ranking: 22

Each of the past three first-round picks by the Bengals played fewer than 100 snaps in his rookie season, and only one of the drafted players logged at least 50 percent of the team's offensive or defensive snaps his rookie season. This year could be different, though, as first-round pick Billy Price is likely to be the starting center.

 

 

30. Miami Dolphins

2017 record: 6-10
Post-free-agency ranking: 32

Last season, the Dolphins were one of three teams to rank in the bottom half of the league in Total QBR, Total QBR allowed, yards per rush and yards per rush allowed. Translation: They needed a lot of help. Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick should be a good foundational piece for the defense. The Dolphins also grabbed a pair of tight ends to support returning QB Ryan Tannehill.

 

 

31. Cleveland Browns

2017 record: 0-16
Post-free-agency ranking: 30

The success of this draft will likely hinge on the development of Baker Mayfield. The Browns have had 28 different starting quarterbacks since they rejoined the NFL in 1999, the most of any team, and whether Mayfield is 29th or 30th -- the Browns have Tyrod Taylor, after all -- the goal is to ensure that Mayfield sticks longer than the likes of Brandon Weeden and Johnny Manziel.

 

 

32. Indianapolis Colts

2017 record: 4-12
Post-free-agency ranking: 31

The Colts have had a lackluster rushing attack for a few years now, and after allowing a league-high 56 sacks last season, it makes sense that the offensive line would be a priority (especially with the return of QB Andrew Luck). The Colts used two of the top 37 picks on offensive linemen, making them just the third team in the past 20 years to take two O-linemen that high.
What can NFL's best sophomore class do for an encore?
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NFL.COM RANKINGS BELOW

 

NFL.COM

 

 

   1-  EAGLES

Ah, who needs to lift a finger in the draft when you're sippin' wine and enjoying some brie? Or a greasy, dripping cheesesteak. Anyone seen the end of "Trading Places"? Well, not only should the Eagles be enjoying their status as the reigning champs, but they didn't need to panic this past weekend. Thought it smart to trade out of the first round and pick up extra picks, because they didn't have a second-rounder (well worth the loss, considering it was partially responsible for bringing Carson Wentz to Philadelphia) heading into the draft. General manager Howie Roseman used the second-rounder acquired in the Day 1 trade (No. 52 overall) to maneuver into the 49th overall spot (via a swap with the Colts), where he nabbed TE Dallas Goedert -- whom Philly can team with Zach Ertz -- one slot before that TE-needy team in Dallas could land him. Also value the pick of CB Avonte Maddox (Round 4, No. 125), who should help when it comes to replacing free-agent departure Patrick Robinson. Can't wait until Philadelphia plays No. 2 below in Week 15.

 

 

2- RAMS

Too high? No way. The Rams did nothing but make their football team better this offseason. They fortified the defense, a group that steadily improved last season, with the additions of veterans Aqib Talib, Marcus Peters and -- since we last completed this exercise -- Ndamukong Suh. Suh might not have dominated in Miami, but he was far from a bust. Putting him next to Aaron Donald was like parking a 1978 Trans Am with gold trim next to the blue-and-white '69 GTO you've had sitting in your driveway earning Defensive Player of the Year honors. Trade acquisition Brandin Cooks doesn't exactly "replace" Sammy Watkins at receiver. Different players. Doesn't matter. This offense is gonna rake.

 

 

 

3- PATRIOTS

Small drop for the Patriots, given the stellar offseason the Rams have enjoyed, which included acquiring Brandin Cooks from New England. The Pats probably feel they'll be fine without Cooks, given the returns of Julian Edelman and the seemingly forgotten Malcolm Mitchell. That said, much applause for Day 3 pick Braxton Berrios (No. 210), who could morph from sixth-round afterthought into someone who's catching a key third-and-6 later this year. The selection of RB Sony Michel (Round 1, No. 31) was almost enough to keep the Patriots at the second spot in the rankings, even with the losses of Nate Solder, Danny Amendola and Cooks. Michel adds a dynamic element close to the ground in Foxborough.

 

 

 

4-  JAGUARS

Ignore the tiny fall. The Rams' jump nudged the Patriots and Jags one spot down. Although it's surprising that more league observers aren't talking about Jacksonville eschewing quarterback until the tail end of the sixth round, when Tanner Lee was selected (No. 203). Faith in Blake Bortles is riding high, apparently -- which is fine, provided he can progress off his performance in the playoffs (versus the Steelers and Patriots ... not the Bills). Setting aside the question mark that is always brought up with these guys, the Jaguars enjoyed what looks to be a fine draft haul. With DT Taven Bryan (Round 1, No. 29) now on board, that Jacksonville defensive-line rotation will be able to mix it up with any O-line in the league.

 

 

 

5-  VIKINGS

The top 10 is stacked with contenders, which should make 2018 darned fun -- and the Vikings are right in the mix. They helped themselves immensely by drafting Mike Hughes out of Central Florida at No. 31 overall. Key to this draft is how (and how quickly) second-round pick Brian O'Neill (No. 62) pans out. The tackle, who used to be a tight end, must improve his strength enough to handle the Mike Danielses of the world. In mere-mortal-I-used-to-work-at-Circuit-City terms, that's like going from a Bowflex to benching 350 on the reg. Even if he's slow to develop, this Vikings team is ready to win it all now. It will be nice to see Terence Newman in uniform again this year. He's enjoyed a heckuva career, and he's coming back for a 16th season. How many corners can play until they're 39 years old? (He'll turn 40 in September.) That's around the time most of us are buying Mini Coopers because of our mini mid-life crises.

 

 

 

6- SAINTS

It seemed a bit expensive to pay what the Saints did to move up to No. 14 (including a 2019 first-rounder) and draft Marcus Davenport from Texas-San Antonio. I'm sure Davenport is being asked annoying, persistent questions like, "What do you think of how much New Orleans gave up to go get you?" and "How does it make you feel?" and "How many times did you visit the Alamo?" You know, stuff like that. I didn't downgrade the Saints' class in my draft omnibus Saturday, even though New Orleans mortgaged draft capital to obtain Davenport, because I think GM Mickey Loomis and Sean Payton are making plays to win this year and the next, while Drew Brees is still upright.

 

 

 

7-  FALCONS

The Falcons only made themselves better in the draft, with a bit of good fortune landing at their feet. Not sure too many draftniks anticipated receiver Calvin Ridley falling to Atlanta at No. 26 overall. Maybe wideout wasn't the Falcons' most major need -- or much of a need at all -- but he did fit the "BPA" model. How imposing does that Falcons attack look now, with Matt Ryan at quarterback, running backs Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman, and Julio Jones, Mohamed Sanu and Ridley outside? Yikes.

History: Twenty years ago, the Vikings had Cris Carter and Jake Reed at wide receiver. Carter was on his way to a Hall of Fame career. Reed was coming off four straight 1,000-yard seasons. What did they do? They took a dynamic WR who fell to them at 21.

 

 

 

8-STEELERS

Small drop for the Steelers, with the trade of receiver Martavis Bryant to the Raiders. Save the nastygrams -- I am totally aware that Pittsburgh grabbed Oklahoma State wideout James Washington in the second round (No. 60 overall). That doesn't mean he'll be Bryant 2.0 this year. We'll see. That's one of the tougher positions at which to make the transition from college to pro football. Thought drafting Washington's quarterback at OSU was smart, but Mason Rudolph (Round 3, No. 76) won't necessarily help the Steelers this year. It will be interesting to see if Marcus Allen reverses field ... wait, wrong Marcus Allen. It will be interesting to see if Marcus Allen (Round 5, No. 148) gets on the field as, essentially, a nickel linebacker this year.

 

 

 

9-PACKERS

Thought about sliding the Packers up, as the drafting of two top-flight prospects at corner ( Jaire Alexander, Round 1, No. 18; and Josh Jackson, Round 2, No. 45) instantly makes this team better. The issue for Green Bay right now is whether the roster has enough pass-catching talent to go against those CBs in practice. What's behind Davante Adams and the oft-banged up Randall Cobb? Geronimo Allison? Ty Montgomery ... sort of? Another matter at hand is the pass rush, where Clay Matthews returns for Year 10 and, once again, teams with the on-again, off-again Nick Perry. Perry is like Season 3 of the original "Star Trek." One episode would be sweet, with a Romulan commander trying to seduce Spock; the next episode, Abraham Lincoln would make an appearance in space. No, really. You get the point.

 

 

 

 

10-  PANTHERS

Loved the Panthers' draft. While other team hauls were equal, Carolina's freshman class could contribute right away, whether we're talking about WR D.J. Moore (Round 1, No. 24), CB Rashaan Gaulden (Round 3, No. 85) or TE Ian Thomas (Round 4, No. 101). The latter could step in and play right away with Greg Olsen. Pretty awesome to think about for Cam Newton. The instant help on offense is a shot of 5-hour Energy for a pass attack that often lacked much starch in the collar.

 

 

 

 

11-  CHARGERS

The Chargers hit a home run -- er, scored a goal on a corner kick -- with the Derwin James selection in the first round. Who knows why that guy fell all the way to the 17th slot? Edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu (Round 2, No. 48) felt like a need pick as opposed to the BPA. But the Bolts were looking to tighten up their defense up the middle, which is precisely why they took DT Justin Jones in the third (No. 84). The drop here is indicative of Carolina's surge. The Chargers might be hosting a playoff game on the soccer pitch this season.

 

 

 

12-  TEXANS

The Texans' personnel department was probably playing "Magic: The Gathering" or "Duck Hunt" on Thursday, as this group didn't own a first-round pick (think they're still fine with where that draft choice went) or a second-rounder (they are definitely happy what that choice afforded them). Yet, Houston brass managed to make as good a third-round selection as any team with safety Justin Reid (No. 68). He could start right away. Fellow third-round pick Martinas Rankin (No. 80) can play multiple spots on the offensive line, which means he can also contribute almost immediately. Houston should challenge Jacksonville's hold on the AFC South right out of the gate.

 

 

 

 

13-  TITANS

Very quietly, the Titans seemed to have garnered themselves a solid draft class, even if it was a bit on the smaller side (four picks). At least, that's the word on the street. They hit defense hard, picking up Alabama 'backer Rashaan Evans on Day 1 (No. 22), then Boston College edge rusher Harold Landry (Round 2, No. 41) on Day 2 and Arizona safety Dane Cruikshank (Round 5, No. 152) on Day 3. I know a Dane. He's the first man I've ever known who wore Oakleys with the string thingie attached. Speaking of Oakleys, this Nashville team shouldn't just look tough, like Eric Church's "Chief" CD cover. Along with the Texans, they should compete with the Jags for the AFC South.

 

 

 

14-  RAVENS

Ozzie Newsome's swan song running personnel for the franchise produced a solid draft. Lamar Jackson was the moneymaker, so to speak, but taking TE Hayden Hurst seven spots ahead of the dynamic quarterback alleviates a team need now. Baltimore managed to draft talented players and fill needs without reaching throughout most of the draft, which is what all teams are aiming to do. If Alex Collins is the real deal at running back, the Ravens will be back in the playoffs. By the way, if you didn't see Baltimore's final pick of the 2018 NFL Draft, watch it here.

 

 

 

15-  49ERS

Some of the fervor over the 49ers has been reduced to a simmer over the last few weeks. Most of the draft analysts out on the Interwebs -- a group that, at last count, totaled either 17,386 or 17,387 -- did not feel that taking tackle Mike McGlinchey ninth overall was the right move. The Reuben Foster situation is a huge concern, as he had been considered a cornerstone of this team's football future. In Dante Pettis (Round 2, No. 44), the Niners are getting not only a speedy receiver, but a bargain, when you consider the return game. Maybe he can be Dante Hall? One can dream.

Side note: I went to a ton of Texas Rangers games in 1991. Saw Nolan Ryan pitch. Watched Ruben Sierra jack a few from both sides of the plate. And I witnessed Pettis' dad, Gary, run down fly balls you thought no human being -- much less any center fielder -- could get to. Pretty cool.

 

 

 

 

16-  LIONS

As I wrote on Saturday (and yes, I am now going to rip off my own work, kind of like the band "Boston"), nobody cares about the Lions' pick, even when they're on the clock. It's really strange, man. Does anyone realize that Detroit is one of the oldest franchises in the league? The organization has won four championships, although it has admittedly been a minute. Or, a million. Still, the Lions have pieced together 18 wins over the last two years. Success on the field (in both the regular season and the playoffs) could ride on Kerryon Johnson (Round 2, No. 43), who will become the latest Detroit tailback to try to turn around a woeful ground game. "Carry On Wayward Son" was a great Boston song. Wait, that just sounded like them. It was actually Kansas. Glad we covered that ground.

 

 

 

17-  CHIEFS

The Chiefs are a strange team to evaluate for 2018. Kansas City fortified many of its leaks in both free agency and the draft. With Kareem Hunt, Tyreek Hill, Travis Kelce and now Sammy Watkins in town, the offense is more loaded than it was for most of Alex Smith's Chiefs run. The question mark is Smith's successor, Patrick Mahomes, who, for all intents and purposes, is a redshirt freshman. Andy Reid and staff saw him every day in practice. They must think he's ready. The departure of ex-offensive coordinator Matt Nagy could hurt, though. The key to this draft: Whether DT Breeland Speaks (Round 2, No. 46) and NT Derrick Nnadi (Round 3, No. 75) are worth the price the organization paid to get them. Remember, the Chiefs already surrendered a hefty sum to snag Mahomes in last year's draft. Fourth-rounder Armani Watts (No. 124) might start at safety this year.

 

 

 

18-  SEAHAWKS

Overshadowing what many deemed a subpar draft for Seattle was the selection of Shaquem Griffin early in the fifth round (No. 141). The speedy Griffin learned how to be an impact player despite having one hand. You could tell draft analysts didn't want to question whether that would hamper Griffin too much in the pro game. My brief and limited impression of the new Seahawk is that he doesn't need anyone feeling sorry for him or tiptoeing around his circumstances. He was, after all, named American Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year. Another pick I liked: Day 3 find Michael Dickson (Round 5, No. 149), a punter out of Texas. With kickoffs nearly legislated out of the game, winning in the punting game becomes more important. Dickson was a smart choice.

 

 

 

19-  RAIDERS

Yuck. That's how the masses outside of Oakland -- though not the silver-and-black faithful -- felt about the Raiders' draft. Odd that Oakland's best pick might have arrived in the fifth round. DT Maurice Hurst (No. 140) was evaluated as a first-round talent, but he's considered a "medical" because, he said, of EKG irregularities. If you've never had an EKG, they attach a bunch of stickers to your body and watch your rhythms. It feels like something straight out of that scene in "The Empire Strikes Back" when Luke is thawed out. Also out of the future: OT Kolton Miller (Round 1, No. 15) being the right pick, and not one pundits point to when Oakland goes 7-9 this season. Look, here's the deal: The Raiders took a lot of draft risks. Was pulling Jon Gruden out of a self-imposed nine-year exile a risk? Isn't pro football itself a risk? Teams aren't building for eight years out. They are building to win over the next three. Gruden is filling his team with vets and high upside for that purpose. And here's the fun part: We'll all find out whether it works together.

 

 

 

20-  BILLS

The Bills' slow lurch downward since the loss to the Jaguars in the Wild Card Round is not indicative of panic-worthy events. Rather, it's a reflection of how strong the team is right now. So, Bills Mafia, if you loved the Josh Allen choice, don't get angry. Because that pick doesn't do much to help the team in Week 1 of the 2018 season. He has an uphill curve ahead of him, although there are plenty of people who enjoy exaggerating that curve. Allen should be accelerating it. AJ McCarron is also a bit of an unknown, but he has flashed potential. Tremaine Edmunds (Round 1, No. 16) should get on the field rather quickly. By the way: That guy turned 20 on Wednesday. TWENTY. I was driving a Mitsubishi Mighty Max with no power steering and working at Bank One at 20. (Yeah, that place is defunct.)

 

 

 

21-  BUCCANEERS

The Bucs aren't going to be anybody's pushover this season. GM Jason Licht took the additional picks he received from trading with the Bills (so Buffalo could get Josh Allen) to build a soft pillow for Jameis Winston to land on. No, not by drafting offensive linemen. Rather, Licht augmented the support system elsewhere for a quarterback who too often has to do too much, namely by strengthening the defense and adding a running back. Ronald Jones (Round 2, No. 38) should help immediately, especially since it's slightly easier to transition from college to the pros at that position. Licht and Co. hit the secondary hard with M.J. Stewart (Round 2, No. 53) and Carlton Davis (Round 2, No. 63). Vita Vea (Round 1, No. 12) is massive in the middle. He's a tree stump. You can't pull him out of there with a Jeep winch. So if anyone ever tells you Allen is a bust, look at all these great plays he's gonna provide ... in Tampa Bay.

 

 

 

22-  COWBOYS

All of the post-draft roar in Dallas right now is about whether the Cowboys were caught off guard by tight end Jason Witten's thoughts about hanging 'em up and heading for the booth, and Why, oh why didn't they make the deal for Earl Thomas? Listening to local sports radio (which is always a tenuous undertaking), it seems that, even if second-round pick Connor Williams (No. 50) starts right away, fans in Big D wanted Thomas. Reportedly, Seattle wasn't buying Dallas' offer of a third-round pick -- they wanted the 2 -- which makes third-round pick Michael Gallup's (No. 81) rookie year at receiver more interesting. Most interesting: Rico Gathers' development in camp and preseason. He's the new TE1 around these parts. Uncle Rico. Memo to David Akers: At least the Cowboys won a Super Bowl at some point.

 

 

 

23-  REDSKINS

The Redskins went all 1942-ish in this year's draft, attempting to assemble a stronghold against the run and create a running game. First-round pick Da'Ron Payne (No. 13) was part of the former effort. Derrius Guice was drafted in the second round (No. 59) to provide the latter. Ditto Geron Christian (Round 3, No. 74), an offensive lineman out of Louisville. Two rounds later, Washington took another defensive tackle ( Tim Settle, Round 5, No. 163). Then came Alabama linebacker Shaun Dion Hamilton (Round 6, No. 197). Makes sense, with Ezekiel Elliott, Saquon Barkley and the Eagles' third-ranked running attack all in the NFC East.

Trivia: Why was the Redskins' championship win in 1942 so important to the members of that team? (@HarrisonNFL. Hard to cheat on this one!)

 

 

 

24-  BEARS

Spoke to a producer at NFL Network who is a Chicago sports honk. Usually, his takes are bad, like, Ryne Sandberg is the greatest second baseman ever and The Bears can win 10 games THIS year ... But I kind of agree with the opinion he gave me the other day: namely, that GM Ryan Pace and crew produced a fine draft haul. "For the first time in years, Bears fans are jazzed after the draft." They should be. Pace hit the defense and passing game hard, especially trading up to acquire WR Anthony Miller (Round 2, No. 51). That guy is going to work his tail off, and even if he's a WR3, he'll be the best third wide receiver Chicago has had since Bobby Engram or Tom Waddle.

 

 

 

25-  GIANTS

Big Blue could be back, sooner rather than later. In terms of winning right away, the Giants had themselves a draft. As penned in my post-draft omnibus on Saturday, the only issue with their rookie class was passing up on a quarterback early. (Developmental QB Kyle Lauletta was a Day 3 pick.) Which was less an indication that Eli Manning will struggle and more a commentary that when teams hit on a quarterback early, they save immense salary-cap capital for years. It's like "Battleship" -- hit your opponent's PT boat on the first try, and you're dancing on his head for hours. Also consider that New York might not be in the position again to snag a promising passer so high for awhile. Still, with the talented group of rookies the Giants grabbed, including Saquon Barkley with the second overall choice, many fans are suggesting that New York could go at least .500 if not contend for a playoff spot, especially in a division that is not so strong (minus the Eagles, of course). On another note: A gaggle of teams could've used G Will Hernandez (Round 2, No. 34).

 

 

 

26-  BRONCOS
Another team that enjoyed a fine draft ... which also explains why the Broncos did not race up the rankings. Denver joined the Bears and Giants in putting together rookie classes that can bring about more success in 2018. DE Bradley Chubb (Round 1, No. 5) and WR Courtland Sutton (Round 2, No. 40) were great picks. What if RB Royce Freeman (Round 3, No. 71) continues to improve from the injuries he had two years ago? My colleague Chad Reuter suggested as much in his "War and Peace"-length draft grades piece for NFL.com a few days ago. Tell you what: If Case Keenum pans out, this group will be duking it out for the AFC West. Taking the Chargers right now.

Trivia: The Broncos and Chargers have only made the playoffs during the same season three times, which is remarkable, given that they both fired up their respective franchises in 1960. The last two occasions were 2013 and 2004. Which year did the Broncos and Chargers first reach the postseason together, and who was Denver's quarterback that year? (@HarrisonNFL)

 

 

 

27-  CARDINALS

All the chatter about the Cardinals' draft weekend centered on Josh Rosen (Round 1, No. 10) and, of course, his attitude. There's a fine line between confidence and arrogance, genuine frustration and petulance and, lastly, passing ability versus quarterbacking ability. Rosen is straddling that line in the public view, but if leadership is at the core of the last trait, then knowing you have to earn respect is surely part of it. Rosen had no reason to be ticked that nine players went before him in the draft. That's ridiculous. Yet, if I were an owner or head coach, I would be glad my future franchise QB was that pissed off. Some folks perform well angry, myself included. Now leave me alone.

 

 

 

28-  BENGALS

Similar to the Lions, nobody seems to care or pay attention to what the Bengals do in the draft. Call it Marvin Lewis fatigue. Or always-bounced-in-the-first-round fatigue. Even if Cincy makes it to the postseason, no one has any confidence that the Bengals will accomplish anything once there, which translates into less interest in their drafts every year. Of course, Cincinnati has stayed home from the playoffs over the last two Januarys, but that could change. Trade acquisition Cordy Glenn and rookie Billy Price (Round 1, No. 21) should bolster the weak spot of the team -- the offensive line -- right away. The front seven got stronger with the addition of DE Sam Hubbard from Ohio State (Round 3, No. 77) and LB Malik Jefferson out of Texas (Round 3, No. 78). And my editor of these here Power Rankings, Gennaro Filice, told me on the cellular phone what a find RB Mark Walton (Round 4, No. 112) was/is. More than anything, Cincy needs the pass-catching triumvirate of A.J. Green, John Ross and Tyler Eifert to stay healthy. Have you been injured in an accident? Call the offices of Green, Ross and Eifert. They understand. They get hurt a lot, too.

 

 

 

29-  JETS

Darnoldmania. Now that we got that out of the way, how'd ya feel about the rest of the Jets' draft? Fantastic? Decent? Baggage claim? Fort Hays State doesn't exactly send multiple guys to the pros every year, but the fine university might have provided the Jets with their next Jason Ferguson or, if they're really lucky, Joe Klecko in DT Nathan Shepherd (Round 3, No. 72). Trading for Henry Anderson should also reinforce Todd Bowles' defensive line. Here's the real question: Will the Jets get a player in tight end Chris Herndon (Round 4, No. 107)? Seriously, when's the last time this organization had a tight end who played up to his draft potential? They've busted here more times than Miranda Lambert's been busted cheating. (Sorry; she's just been in my news feed non-stop.) I'm gonna go with Mickey Shuler on the TE query. (Third round, 1978.)

 

 

 

 

30-  DOLPHINS

The Dolphins start over with more questions than answers, but certainly much upside to the 2018 season. Back is QB Ryan Tannehill, with a new tight end in second-round pick Mike Gesicki (No. 42). Listening to the NFL channel on Sirius XM Radio in the weeks leading up to the draft, I heard Gesicki's name every day. Will he fare better than Jordan Cameron and Julius Thomas? Minkah Fitzpatrick (Round 1, No. 11) should team with Reshad Jones at some point to form a premier set of safeties. Following Ndamukong Suh's departure, the defense as a whole will have a new feel, especially with the arrival of Robert Quinn from the Rams. Frank Gore might be 55, but he complements Kenyan Drake well. Danny Amendola is now on board. Adam Gase's team has a bit of an uphill journey, but there is a solid nucleus, in theory, here.

 

 

 

 

31-  BROWNS

You're either on the Baker Mayfield train or not, it seems. Which is fine, but if you didn't like the Brett Favre draft-day replica pic -- complete with giant cordless phone, jorts and a pimp hat in the background -- you're not of this Earth. In case you missed it, Alonzo Highsmith (former Oilers RB Alonzo Highsmith) detailed why Cleveland took Mayfield No. 1 overall against all odds in a rare show of front-office clarity. CB Denzel Ward (No. 4 overall) should start. Guard Austin Corbett (Round 2, No. 33) can, too. Then there's former Georgia standout Nick Chubb (Round 2, No. 35), who could relegate free-agent signee Carlos Hyde to the pine. Put another way: This is a whole new Browns team with an infusion of energy. It's on Hue Jackson now. As for not moving the Browns higher? They need to win.

 

 

 

 

32-  COLTS

Trying to write about the Colts without mentioning Andrew Luck is nearly impossible. See? Already failed. GM Chris Ballard and the personnel department deserve much credit for a job well done in Dallas. Quenton Nelson (Round 1, No. 6), by all accounts, was a home-run pick. He will play Day 1 at guard. OLB Darius Leonard (Round 2, No. 36) was a double off the wall. He might be starting before the preseason is over. Not sure where guard Braden Smith (Round 2, No. 37) will play, as Indy is now situated at guard with the underrated Jack Mewhort and Nelson lining up there. But I like where the Colts' heads are at: Protect the man whose name will not be mentione

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My countdown                                       ESPN                                               NFL.COM

 

#32:New York Jets                                   #32:Indy Colts                               #32:Indy Colts

 

#31 Cleveland Browns                             #31 Cleveland Browns                 #31 Cleveland Browns

 

#30:Miami Dolphins                                 #30:Miami Dolphins                      #30:Miami Dolphins

 

#29:Indianapolis Colts                             #29:Cincinnati Bengals                 #29:New York Jets

 

#28:Chicago Bears                                  #28:Chicago Bears                       #28:Cincinnati Bengals

 

#27:Tampa Bay Bucs                               #27:New York Jets                        #27:Arizona Cardinals

 

#26:Buffalo Bills                                       #26:New York Giants                     #26:Denver Broncos

 

#25:Washington Redskins                       #25:Buffalo Bills                             #25:New York Giants

 

#24:Cincinnati Bengals                            #24:Tampa Bay Bucs                     #24:Chicago Bears

 

#23:Denver Broncos                                #23:Arizona Cardinals                    #23:Washington Redskins

 

#22:New York Giants                               #22:Baltimore Ravens                     #22:Dallas Cowboys

 

#21:Oakland Raiders                                #21:Denver Broncos                       #21:Tampa Bay Bucs

 

#20:Arizona Cardinals                              #20:Detroit Lions                             #20:Buffalo Bills

 

#19:Baltimore Ravens                              #19:Oakland Raiders                      #19:Oakland Raiders

 

#18:Seattle Seahawks                              #18:Washington Redskins              #18:Seattle Seahawks

 

#17:Houston Texans                                 #17:Houston Texans                       #17:Kansas City Chiefs

 

#16:Detroit Lions                                       #16:Seattle Seahawks                    #16:Detroit Lions

 

#15:San Francisco 49ers                          #15:San Francisco 49ers                #15:San Francisco 49ers

 

#14:Dallas Cowboys                                  #14:Dallas Cowboys                       #14:Baltimore Ravens

 

#13:L.A. Chargers                                      #13:Tennessee Titans                     #13:Tennessee Titans 

 

#12:Tennessee Titans                                #12:L.A. Chargers                            #12:Houston Texans

 

#11:Kansas City Chiefs                              #11:Carolina Panthers                      #11:L.A. Chargers

 

#10:Atlanta Falcons                                   #10:Kansas City Chiefs                    #10:Carolina Panthers

 

#9:Carolina Panthers                                   #9:Green Bay Packers                     #9:Green Bay Packers

 

#8:Jacksonville Jaguars                               #8:Atlanta Falcons                           #8:Pittsburgh Steelers

 

#7:Pittsburgh Steelers                                  #7:Jacksonville Jaguars                   #7:Atlanta Falcons

 

#6:New Orleans Saints                                 #6:L.A. Rams                                   #6:New Orleans Saints

 

#5:Green Bay Packers                                 #5:Minnesota Vikings                        #5:Minnesota Vikings

 

#4:L.A. Rams                                                #4:New Orleans Saints                     #4:Jacksonville Jaguars

 

#3:Minnesota Vikings                                    #3:Pittsburgh Steelers                      #3:New England Patriots

 

#2:New England Patriots                               #2:New England Patriots                  #2:L.A. Rams

 

#1:Philadelphia Eagles                                  #1:Philadelphia Eagles                     #1:Philadelphia Eagles

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Browns should be higher and will jump up at least 5-10 spots during the course of the season.

 

If Luck is finally healthy, the Colts will also jump up quite a bit.  Even with Luck, I don't see them being much of a threat due to the stacked division and a shitty roster with not much depth.

 

I agree on the Browns i should've put them higher on my list, Also the Colts will climb as well if Luck is healthy.

 

It would not shock me if the Browns won the division all it would take is some Steeler injuries and the rest of the teams are tough but not what they were 3 to 4 years ago.

 

 

Below i put my countdown i did the last two months along with NFL,COM and ESPN too just to see what differing opinions were other than mine.

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