14. Pittsburgh Steelers
Last week: 14th
Steelers were on a bye in Week 9***
The Steelers should be on the lookout for wide receiver help as the trade deadline approaches, but this team has exceeded expectations significantly in 2026.
Well, my expectations, at least.
I don’t know if there’s a team that I’ve already had my mind made up on more than the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2026. It seemed like this team was destined for 8-10 wins, a quick playoff exit, and just more of the same.
But they’ve been resilient. They are running the ball well. Jaylen Warren has become the offensive MVP and catalyst this team needed. The Steelers are one of those teams that you just can’t figure out, but you also can’t argue with their results.
They are 6-2 heading into the bye, and even if it doesn’t look pretty, they appear to be on track to hang with the Bengals the rest of the way this season.
13. New England Patriots
Last week: 11th
Whatever you do, don’t say anything about the schedule.
The New England Patriots got blown out at home against the Green Bay Packers in Week 9, and it was the type of loss – on your own field – that will cause a players-only meeting.
Drake Maye threw three interceptions, Rhamondre Stevenson lost a fumble, and the Patriots gave up 45 points and countless big plays on their home field against the Packers.
The Patriots became the first team all season to allow the Packers to run for over 100 yards. They gave up 372 passing yards to Jordan Love.
In just about every possible way, this was a forgettable game for the Patriots, who are now 5-4 after suffering their first loss at home this season. And it’s not going to get much easier. They now have to host Detroit before the bye, and they play the Chargers, Bills, Vikings, and Chiefs before Christmas.
This team is going to be put through the fire.
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