Week 4 NFL Power Rankings: Teams 32–17

The NFL season is heating up, and some teams are struggling while others are starting to show promise. Here’s a look at the lower half of this week’s power rankings, from the bottom at 32 all the way up to 17.

32. Texans (0-3)

Houston lost another tough game, falling 17–10 to Jacksonville. C.J. Stroud and Nico Collins made a few big plays, but the offensive line allowed too much pressure. The Texans keep making mistakes late in games, and it has cost them every week.

31. Giants (0-3)

The Giants lost 22–9 to Kansas City, and Russell Wilson had another rough outing. He turned the ball over and couldn’t finish drives. Until the offense protects the ball better, the Giants will stay near the bottom.

30. Titans (0-3)

Tennessee was outmatched in a 41–20 loss to the Colts. Rookie quarterback Cam Ward showed toughness, but he was under constant pressure. The Titans need better blocking and stronger defense to turn things around.

29. Saints (0-3)

New Orleans was crushed 44–13 by Seattle. Spencer Rattler made some throws and Alvin Kamara worked hard, but the defense gave up big plays all night. The Saints have to find a way to stop opponents before things get worse.

28. Jets (0-3)

The Jets lost a close one, 29–27 against Tampa Bay. Breece Hall ran the ball well, but with Justin Fields out the passing game just isn’t there. Without balance on offense, the Jets can’t finish games. If Fields doesn't come back this week they could be staring at an 0-4 start.

27. Dolphins (0-3)

Miami is still looking for its first win after falling again. Tua Tagovailoa, Jaylen Waddle, and De’Von Achane showed flashes, but mistakes kept them from winning. The Dolphins have awesome offensive talent, but execution has to improve.

26. Bengals (2-1)

Cincinnati was blown out 48–10 by Minnesota. With Joe Burrow injured, backup Jake Browning struggled badly and the defense couldn’t help. Even at 2–1, the Bengals look lost without their star quarterback. Ranking them at 26 could be an overreaction, but the season could be lost already.

25. Falcons (1-2)

Atlanta was shut out 30–0 by Carolina in an extremely disappointing loss. Rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. threw two interceptions, and only Bijan Robinson looked dangerous. The Falcons must regroup quickly to stay competitive.

24. Raiders (1-2)

Las Vegas fell 41–24 to Washington. Geno Smith connected with Tre Tucker for two touchdowns, but the defense gave up points too easily. Ashton Jeanty also has failed to live up to the hype when the Raiders drafted him 6th overall. Until the team improves, the Raiders will struggle to win.

23. Patriots (1-2)

New England lost 21–14 to Pittsburgh, but there were some good signs. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye threw two touchdowns and showed toughness. The Patriots are still uneven, but Maye gives them hope for the future.

22. Cowboys (1-2)

Dallas was embarrassed in a 31–14 loss to Chicago. Dak Prescott couldn’t get much going, and the defense had no answers for Caleb Williams. The Cowboys have talent, but they must play with more consistency. CeeDee Lamb suffered a high ankle sprain. Without him the Cowboys could drop even further.

21. Panthers (1-2)

Carolina shut out Atlanta 30–0 in one of their best games in years. Bryce Young played smart and efficient, while the defense swarmed all over the Falcons. If the Panthers can build on this win and Tetairoa McMillan continues to grow, they could climb the rankings.

20. Bears (1-2)

Chicago rolled past Dallas 31–14 behind rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. He threw four touchdowns and spread the ball to his young playmakers. The Bears showed how dangerous they can be on offense, but they need to prove they can do it every week.

19. Browns (1-2)

Cleveland stunned Green Bay with a 13–10 win. Rookie running back Quinshon Judkins ran hard, and the defense came up with a big late stop. The Browns still have questions on offense, but this win and Judkins' breakout performance gives them hope.

18. Cardinals (2-1)

Arizona nearly pulled off an upset against the 49ers, losing just 16–15. Kyler Murray and rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. continue to build chemistry even though Harrison Jr. has been struggling with drops. The Cardinals are showing they can compete with anyone.

17. Jaguars (2-1)

Jacksonville’s defense led the way in a 17–10 win over Houston. Trevor Lawrence managed the game well and avoided mistakes. If their defense keeps playing this tough, the Jaguars will stay near the top half of the league.

Wrapping It Up

These teams are still searching for their identity, but some are beginning to show signs of progress. Whether it’s rookies stepping up or defenses finding their rhythm, the bottom half of the league is full of storylines to watch. Next week, we’ll see which teams can climb and which ones continue to struggle.