With just two weeks remaining in the 2024 NFL regular season, the competition is heating up! Teams are jockeying for position, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Who will deliver the holiday cheer as we approach Christmas week, and who might be ready to fade away as we ring in the new year? Let’s dive into how all 32 teams are stacking up, with some festive insights into why they’re ranked where they are as we head into the second-to-last week of the season.
NFL Power Rankings Week 17
1. Kansas City Chiefs 14-1 (previous ranking: 1)
The Chiefs are still the team to beat. After a brief injury scare with Patrick Mahomes, he quickly returned to form, showcasing why he’s considered the league’s most formidable quarterback. Just ask the Texans, who learned this the hard way last Saturday.
2. Buffalo Bills 12-3 (3)
The Bills had a nail-biter against the Patriots, almost letting their guard down after an impressive win against the Lions. As they prepare to face the Jets and Patriots again to close out the season, they need to keep their momentum going for the playoffs.
3. Detroit Lions 13-2 (4)
The Lions are proving their critics wrong, especially in cold weather. Jared Goff led the charge, and despite an injury-plagued defense, they showcased their strength against the Bears. With the Eagles faltering, the Lions are making a strong case as the NFC’s top team.
4. Minnesota Vikings 13-2 (5)
In a thrilling shootout against the Seahawks, the Vikings relied heavily on Justin Jefferson, who continues to be a game-changer. His contributions are vital as the team gears up for the playoffs.
5. Philadelphia Eagles 12-3 (2)
The Eagles faced a setback with Jalen Hurts’ injury, and their reliance on Saquon Barkley and A.J. Brown wasn’t enough against Washington. They’re hoping to secure a division title in the coming weeks, but it all hinges on Hurts’ health.
6. Green Bay Packers 11-4 (6)
Don’t count out the Packers! With Jordan Love and a solid defense, they are in the mix for the NFC title. Their experience from last season’s playoff run could be invaluable as the weather turns colder.
7. Baltimore Ravens 10-5 (8)
The Ravens are hitting their stride at the right moment, with a defense that’s stepping up to support Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry. They’re back in the AFC title conversation, closely trailing the Chiefs.
8. Pittsburgh Steelers 10-5 (7)
The Steelers are struggling with injuries and a slumping Russell Wilson. They’re fading fast and may find themselves losing the division title to the Ravens once again.
9. Washington Commanders 10-5 (9)
With Jayden Daniels leading the charge, the Commanders are gaining momentum. They’re playing better after the bye week and are looking to close the gap with the Eagles.
10. Los Angeles Rams 9-6 (14)
The Rams are back in the playoff hunt, thanks in part to their young defense. Matthew Stafford and Kyren Williams are finding their rhythm, making the Rams a surprise contender this season.
11. Houston Texans 9-6 (10)
The Texans, now AFC South champions, faced a tough lesson against the Chiefs. C.J. Stroud is experiencing a mild sophomore slump, and they need to regroup for the playoffs.
12. Los Angeles Chargers 9-6 (13)
The Chargers are regaining their clutch mojo with Justin Herbert at the helm. Under Jim Harbaugh’s guidance, they’re looking dangerous as they eye the playoffs.
13. Denver Broncos 9-6 (11)
Despite Bo Nix’s promising performances, the Broncos are facing late-season defensive issues. They need to tighten up if they want to make a playoff push against tough opponents like the Bengals and Chiefs.
14. Seattle Seahawks 8-7 (15)
The Seahawks put up a good fight against the Vikings but fell short due to a lack of support from their running game and defense. It looks like their playoff hopes might be slipping away.
15. Atlanta Falcons 8-7 (20)
Michael Penix Jr. is still finding his footing as a rookie quarterback, but the Falcons’ running game and defense remain strong. They’re hanging on in the playoff race.
16. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 8-7 (12)
The Buccaneers are in a tight race for the NFC South title, but their recent defensive breakdown against the Cowboys has put a dent in their playoff aspirations.
17. Cincinnati Bengals 7-8 (18)
Joe Burrow is still in the MVP conversation if the Bengals can pull off a miracle. Their Week 17 matchup against the Broncos will be crucial.
18. Dallas Cowboys 7-8 (19)
The Cowboys are fighting hard under Cooper Rush, but their playoff hopes are dwindling. It seems like Mike McCarthy’s future is uncertain as they look ahead to next season.
19. Indianapolis Colts 7-8 (21)
Jonathan Taylor is proving to be a key player, helping Anthony Richardson find his groove. They’re still in the playoff race, but consistency is key.
20. Miami Dolphins 7-8 (22)
The Dolphins showed resilience against the 49ers, but overall, it’s been a disappointing season. Mike McDaniel is looking for positives as they finish strong.
21. Arizona Cardinals 7-8 (16)
The Cardinals’ season has been marred by road struggles and Kyler Murray’s inconsistency. Their playoff hopes have officially evaporated after a loss to the Panthers.
22. San Francisco 49ers 6-9 (17)
Brock Purdy is doing his best to keep the offense afloat, but the defense has been lacking. They need to make some changes to improve next season.
23. New Orleans Saints 5-10 (23)
The Saints are facing a crossroads with Derek Carr and Alvin Kamara both sidelined. They need to rebuild their defense if they want to compete next season.
24. Carolina Panthers 4-11 (26)
There’s reason for optimism in Carolina with Bryce Young showing promise under coach Dave Canales. The future looks bright!
25. Chicago Bears 4-11 (24)
The Bears are struggling without Matt Eberflus, and their offense is in dire need of a spark. Change is needed if they want to improve next season.
26. New York Jets 4-11 (25)
The Jets’ offensive struggles have been evident since Aaron Rodgers’ injury. They need to regroup and find a way to finish the season strong.
27. New England Patriots 3-12 (29)
Drake Maye is giving the Patriots hope for the future, and with an improved supporting cast next year, they could turn things around.
28. Tennessee Titans 3-12 (30)
The Titans are still searching for answers at quarterback, and their run defense needs serious work if they want to bounce back next season.
29. Cleveland Browns 3-12 (27)
The Browns are struggling offensively with Dorian Thompson-Robinson at the helm. They need to address their defensive issues to make any impact.
30. Las Vegas Raiders 3-12 (32)
The Raiders showed some fight with a strong defensive effort, but it may be too late to save Antonio Pierce’s job.
31. Jacksonville Jaguars 3-12 (28)
The Jaguars are in dire need of defensive help, and their offense is doing its best with limited resources.
32. New York Giants 2-13 (31)
The Giants are limping to the finish line, needing major repairs on both sides of the ball. A good pass rush is useless when the rest of the defense breaks down.
As the regular season winds down, every game counts. Teams are fighting for playoff spots, and fans are on the edge of their seats. Who will rise to the occasion, and who will fall short? The excitement of the NFL is in full swing, and we can’t wait to see how it all unfolds!
