28. New York Jets
Last week's ranking: 27
Although the much more anticipated debut was David Bailey in the preseason opener, we got to see Cade Klubnik out there starting for the Jets with Geno Smith dealing with an ankle injury. And Klubnik looked pretty poised out there. It might be something to monitor as the season goes along. If Klubnik shows some more positive signs in the preseason, Smith's proverbial leash might be shorter than expected.
The 31-yard touchdown run by Braelon Allen was a huge sign of what is hopefully to come for him this season. Having him as a consistent weapon alongside Breece Hall would be huge for the Jets' offense.
27. Tennessee Titans
Last week's ranking: 28
Even after a bit of a rough debut in the preseason for Cam Ward, I'm still buying Titans stock for this season. Part of what the preseason is for is working out the kinks, and the Titans have a ton of "new" this year. Brian Daboll's offense isn't going to look like a well-oiled machine overnight, but we're banking on that talent showing itself sooner rather than later.
It's also important to remember that this is a rebuilding team, and it might take until midseason to see things really start clicking.
26. Atlanta Falcons
Last week's ranking: 25
Yes, it was just one preseason game, and the Falcons were going against the Denver Broncos' truly elite defense. But the performance was ugly.
There was no Bijan Robinson and no Drake London, so you have to grade the performance on a curve, but first impressions mean a lot, and Tua Tagovailoa made a horrendous first impression. This could end up being a bit of a long first year in Atlanta for new head coach Kevin Stefanski.
And let's not even discuss the fact that the Falcons will be missing both Jalon Walker (entire season due to injury) and James Pearce Jr. (half the season due to suspesion).
25. Washington Commanders
Last week's ranking: 21
The Washington Commanders' preseason opening win against the Dolphins was almost completely overshadowed by starting quarterback Jayden Daniels going viral for the action he took against LSU when they decided to let another player wear the jersey No. 5.
Whether or not you agree with Daniels and the action he took, it's undeniably and objectively hilarious the way the internet has been roasting him, including a wide variety of teams in other professional leagues.
This is such a weird team to try and figure out right now. They had the 32nd-ranked defense in the NFL last year (yards allowed), and their QB position has been dealing with one injury after another. My confidence level in them is bordering on non-existent.
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