NFL Power Rankings: Biggest risers and fallers after preseason Week 1

4. Houston Texans

Last week's ranking: 4

It's going to be fun to watch teams try to throw on the Houston Texans last year. When you talk about a secondary that is top-tier at every position, there are probably only two teams in the NFL that can even compare: Houston and Denver.

The Texans already had an elite secondary, and they added veteran safety Reed Blankenship this offseason along with rookie Kamari Ramsey. How the Texans got Ramsey in the 5th round of this year's draft? Nobody knows.

The combination of this team's pass rush and talent in the secondary is going to make throwing for 200 yards against them a feat.

3. Buffalo Bills

Last week's ranking: 5th

The Buffalo Bills looked incredible in their preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers.

Josh Allen appeared to be in regular season form. DJ Moore got involved early. Even Keon Coleman started to rewrite some narratives by catching a touchdown pass.

We saw nothing in the preseason opener to derail any ideas or thoughts of this Buffalo team being a true contender in the AFC this season, and Josh Allen looks like a man possessed already.

2. Denver Broncos

Last week's ranking: 2

The Denver Broncos finished as the runner-up in the AFC last season, but they look like they might be the favorites in 2026.

Without Bo Nix, Jaylen Waddle, or JK Dobbins, the Denver offense was absolutely rolling in the first half against the Atlanta Falcons, and the defense was even more dominant. This is a Broncos team that has elite top-end talent, but maybe even more impressive roster depth.

First-year OC Davis Webb did a fantastic job in his debut, and while the Broncos have been much more known for their defense in recent years, the offense might have made the type of leap to get this team in position for a 4th Lombardi Trophy.

1. Los Angeles Rams

Last week's ranking: 1

After making blockbuster trades to acquire both Myles Garrett and Trent McDuffie this offseason, of course it would be the one questionable move from the Rams that would absolutely shine in the preseason opener.

Ty Simpson was outstanding.

It's not going to surprise anyone to see that the Rams will open up this season as one of the most well-oiled machines in the NFL. They have a star-studded roster, and the icing on the cake will be whenever Aaron Donald finally decides he's officially coming back.

It's bordering on unfair.

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