NFL Power Rankings, Week 1: Titans ink Clowney, Chiefs remain clear favorites

Maybe this is a harsh spot to have the New York Jets in these NFL Power Rankings entering Week 1 but I really don’t think that’s the case. The more that we hear about this team and the more you look at the roster, it’s hard to believe that the wide-open door in the AFC East won’t close quickly in the face of Gang Green.

For starters, the weaknesses on both sides of the ball are glaring. There are no proven pass-rushers, the secondary has major holes now that Jamal Adams resides in Seattle, this might be the worst wide receiver group outside of Washington in the NFL and the offensive line remains sub-par even after using a first-round pick on Mekhi Becton as he can only man one spot.

Additionally, it feels like any optimism about the Jets is centered on third-year quarterback Sam Darnold making a leap. But what evidence is there that’s going to happen? He’s struggled when on the field and, while that may not be his fault, his situation hasn’t improved all that much heading into this season.

The cherry on top in the Big Apple, though, is head coach Adam Gase. Nothing that he’s done in this position, with the Jets or with the Dolphins, should inspire confidence that he can produce a winning team. And I expect that to be reflected as the Jets should be considered favorites to finish last in the AFC East in 2020.