The winds of change are blowing once again in the NFC entering Week 9 of the 2026 season.
This was expected to be one of the most competitive years we have had in recent memory across the NFL overall, but the race to the top of the NFC is going to come down to a photo finish. And for the time being, it's been one absolute treat after another week after week.
Entering a pivotal week of action in Week 9, our newest NFL Power Rankings will take a look at the NFC as a whole, ranking each team worst to best based on everything we've seen so far this season, and what major changes have already been made this week.
NFL Power Rankings, Week 9: Bears soaring to the top of latest NFC rankings
16. Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles are an abject disaster at this point.
The situation with Jalen Hurts is bad enough, but since Hurts has been out, the Eagles have already benched backup QB Tanner McKee in favor of Joe Milton, who was plucked away from the Cowboys' practice squad.
It's already been a rough start to the season for the Eagles, who were dismantled by Jayden Daniels and the Commanders on Sunday Night Football. Now, they will host the New York Giants on Sunday, and the Giants are coming off a bye.
To keep things positive, there is at least a glimmer of hope and upside with Joe Milton at the quarterback position. Regardless of his prior roster status, Milton might have the strongest arm in the NFL. He's also got the ability to make plays with his legs, so there is at least some intrigue heading into that matchup on Sunday against the Giants.
15. New Orleans Saints
As a big supporter of the New Orleans Saints going into this season, it's disappointing that this is where we find them after 7 games to open the year.
But the Saints are coming off a bye, they're getting some reinforcements (maybe even an appearance from top pick Jordyn Tyson), and there is a lot of football left to be played. The NFC South is bad once again this year, so the Saints are only one game back in the win column from everyone else in that division right now.
They are hosting the Cleveland Browns in Week 9, and with an 0-4 record at home this season, I'm thinking we're finally going to see the Saints get one in front of the home crowd and maybe some hope rejuvenated for this team. It's not over for them, even at 2-5.
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