NFL Power Rankings: Colts fall, Steelers rise, Redskins stagnate

Playoff Contenders

Nobody would be surprised if these teams went on Super Bowl runs, but they just might not have the ammunition to get it done this year.

8. Kansas City Chiefs – Previously 6. The Chiefs offense is built to contend, especially with the addition of LeSean McCoy to their already strong backfield. However, their defense is a major work in progress. Frank Clark and Chris Jones are great on the defensive line, but they don’t have great linebackers in their new 4-3 alignment and their secondary, aside from Tyrann Mathieu, is suspect. Former Redskins Bashaud Breeland and Kendall Fuller are set to start at corner, so if their offense can’t get going on occasion, their defense may let them down. That’s what keeps them out of the Super Bowl contender list though they should still have a great chance to win the AFC West.

9. Seattle Seahawks – Previously 15. Adding Jadeveon Clowney to the defensive front should have a massive impact on this team. He will replace the departed Frank Clark just fine while Russell Wilson and the running game should do well on offense. I slept on the Seahawks last year and won’t make the same mistake again.

10. Los Angeles Rams – Previously 11. It’s a two-horse race in the NFC West, but the Rams aren’t as strong as they were last year. They lost Rodger Saffold and John Sullivan from their offensive line, and if they can’t adequately replace them, their offense may not be as good, especially with Todd Gurley dealing with a knee injury. Meanwhile, the loss of Ndamukong Suh will slightly weaken their defensive front. Sean McVay could lead this team to the playoffs, but their path is a bit more difficult this year.

11. Dallas Cowboys – Previously 12. Ezekiel Elliott’s holdout could capsize the Cowboys if it lasts too long, but rookie Tony Pollard can fill in for him early in the season, as the Cowboys have a fairly favorable schedule out of the gate (they play the Giants, Redskins, and Dolphins to open the season). They have a solid defense and a great offensive line, so they should compete for a divisional title or wild card spot.

12. Carolina Panthers – Previously 13. The Panthers are the third NFC South team that could end up making the postseason. They have upgraded their offensive line and added talent to their new 3-4 defense including Gerald McCoy, Brian Burns, and Bruce Irvin. Cam Newton’s health will be critical to ensuring they’ll have a chance, but they could work their way into the wild card race if they can keep pace with the Saints and Falcons.