12. Minnesota Vikings
We know the Minnesota Vikings are a first-class organization with elite coaching. Kevin O'Connell is one of the best in the NFL, so to see this team struggling like they have is a direct reflection on one position, and one position only. It was a collaborative effort, but the decision to let Sam Darnold walk in favor of JJ McCarthy is looking like a massive whiff. We'll see how the Vikings adjust if McCarthy continues to struggle this season, or if he can take some baby steps forward.
11. Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons are another NFC team I'm looking at right now as a possible overhaul team in the offseason. Things have not worked out for GM Terry Fontenot since coming aboard in 2021. Raheem Morris probably isn't the problem, but without a first-round pick in 2026, the Falcons might need to trade from their surplus of offensive skill position talent to supplement the roster moving forward.
10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
This is the lowest I've been on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers all year long. They are in a crucial stretch right now to not only prove themselves to people like me, but to fend off the Carolina Panthers for the top spot in the NFC South. Of course, injuries have played a major factor here, but it speaks to the depth of the NFC right now that the Buccaneers would be anywhere outside the top seven spots. They've still got a lot to prove, but they can climb.
9. Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys suffered a disappointing loss at the hands of the Detroit Lions this week, and that unfortunately has dropped them in our NFC Power Rankings considerably. With six losses, it's going to be a razor-thin margin for error over the duration of the regular season for Dallas. And speaking of razor-thin, wide receiver George Pickens might be on razor-thin ice after the performance he put up against the Lions. His enigmatic personality was at the forefront in that game, and with so much money on the line, he's got to turn it around fast.