NFL Power Rankings – Week 5 (Teams 32–17)

We’re four weeks into the season, and every team has now played at least a quarter of its schedule. Some squads are flying high, while others are still searching for answers. At the bottom of the rankings, teams are dealing with injuries, tough losses, and even quarterback changes. But there’s still plenty of time left for surprises!

32. Tennessee Titans (0-4)

The Titans were shut out 26-0 by the Texans. Rookie quarterback Cameron Ward showed some arm strength, but turnovers and missed field goals kept them scoreless. The offensive line struggled all game. They’ll need to protect Ward better if they want any chance to turn things around.

31. New York Jets (0-4)

The Jets lost 27-21 to the Dolphins. Justin Fields ran for a long touchdown and connected with Garrett Wilson late, but turnovers and a missed onside kick ended their comeback. More balance in the passing game is needed if they want to finally get a win.

30. New Orleans Saints (0-4)

The Saints fell 31-19 to the Bills. Spencer Rattler threw a touchdown to Chris Olave, and Kamara made some big plays, but the defense couldn’t handle Josh Allen and James Cook. The defense has to tighten up quickly to keep this season alive.

29. New York Giants (1-3)

The Giants upset the Chargers 21-18 for their first win. Rookie Jaxson Dart stepped in and ran for a touchdown, while Cam Skattebo and the defense helped seal the game. They hope Dart can spark more wins as he grows into the job.

28. Houston Texans (1-3)

The Texans beat the Titans 26-0, getting their first win of the season. C.J. Stroud threw two touchdowns, rookie Woody Marks scored twice, and the defense forced turnovers all game. They’ll try to build on this momentum and climb out of the basement.

27. Carolina Panthers (1-3)

The Panthers were blown out 42-13 by the Patriots. Bryce Young had one early touchdown, but the offense struggled after that, and the defense had no answers for Drake Maye. The Panthers need consistency to give Young a real chance to shine.

26. Las Vegas Raiders (1-3)

The Raiders lost a heartbreaker 25-24 to the Bears. Rookie Ashton Jeanty had 138 rushing yards and three total touchdowns, but a missed field goal at the end cost them the game. If Jeanty keeps playing like this, the Raiders’ future looks bright even in losses.

25. Cleveland Browns (1-3)

The Browns were dominated 34-10 by the Lions. Rookie Quinshon Judkins scored once, but Joe Flacco threw two interceptions and the defense gave up too many big plays. They’ll need cleaner quarterback play to keep games competitive.

24. Miami Dolphins (1-3)

The Dolphins got their first win, 27-21 over the Jets. De’Von Achane rushed for nearly 100 yards and Darren Waller scored twice, though Tyreek Hill left with a serious knee injury. Miami has to adjust quickly with Hill out for the season.

23. Cincinnati Bengals (2-2)

The Bengals were crushed 28-3 by the Broncos. Without Joe Burrow, Jake Browning struggled, and stars like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins were quiet all day. Cincinnati needs to trade for a new quarterback before the season slips away.

22. Dallas Cowboys (1-2-1)

The Cowboys tied the Packers 40-40 in a wild shootout. Dak Prescott threw for four touchdowns, and Javonte Williams and George Pickens both scored. The defense has to step up so Dallas doesn’t get stuck in more close calls.

21. Arizona Cardinals (2-2)

The Cardinals lost a close one, 23-20 to the Seahawks. Kyler Murray connected with rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. for a touchdown, but the defense gave up a game-winning field goal at the end. They have to finish stronger if they want to stay in the playoff race.

20. New England Patriots (2-2)

The Patriots rolled past the Panthers 42-13. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye threw two touchdowns and ran for another, while the defense forced turnovers all game long. If Maye keeps playing like this, New England could climb quickly.

19. Chicago Bears (2-2)

The Bears edged the Raiders 25-24. Caleb Williams threw a touchdown to Rome Odunze, and D’Andre Swift scored the game-winning touchdown late. Chicago will try to stack wins and prove their wins are more than just flashes.

18. Washington Commanders (2-2)

The Commanders lost 34-27 to the Falcons. Marcus Mariota threw two touchdowns to Deebo Samuel, but the defense gave up huge plays to Bijan Robinson and Michael Penix Jr. Washington needs Jayden Daniels back if they want to stay in the race.

17. Denver Broncos (2-2)

The Broncos crushed the Bengals 28-3. Sophomore quarterback Bo Nix threw for over 300 yards, J.K. Dobbins rushed for 101 yards, and the defense shut down Cincinnati. Denver will try to prove this wasn’t just one good week.

The middle of the pack is filled with teams that have shown flashes of promise but haven’t yet proven they can do it week after week. A big play here or a cleaner game there could change their entire outlook. Next week, we’ll see who can rise and who keeps sliding as the playoff picture slowly starts to take shape.