Saturday, May 18, 2024

Miami Dolphins 2024 NFL power rankings post-draft roundup

Throughout the 2024 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Below you will find a post-NFL draft roundup for the Miami Dolphins in our consensus 2024 NFL Power Rankings.

ESPN -- Rank: 7

Most improved: Pass-rush depth

Although the Dolphins' top two pass-rushers are about as good a tandem as you get in the NFL, their depth behind Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb left something to be desired. Miami released Emmanuel Ogbah and lost Andrew Van Ginkel to free agency, but general manager Chris Grier signed veteran Shaquil Barrett this offseason, then doubled down on pass-rushers in the draft -- taking Chop Robinson and Mohamed Kamara in the first and fifth rounds, respectively.

The rookies might be asked to contribute early in the season if Chubb and Phillips have not fully recovered from their season-ending injuries suffered in 2023, but once those two are healthy, Miami has to feel good about its pass-rush depth in 2024. -- Marcel Louis-Jacques

NFL.com -- Rank: 11

I completely understood the rationale of taking edge Chop Robinson in the first round. The Dolphins were gutted when Jaelan Phillips, Bradley Chubb and Andrew Van Ginkel all went down with injuries down the stretch last season, and Christian Wilkins, Emmanuel Ogbah and Van Ginkel are now playing elsewhere. Plus, they can't count on Phillips and Chubb being fully healthy to start the season. Robinson profiles similarly to Danielle Hunter when he came out, lacking quality college production but possessing all the pass-rush traits NFL teams are seeking. The rest of Miami's draft was fine. I really liked the middle three picks of RB Jaylen Wright, edge Mohamed Kamara and WR Malik Washington, but none of the three are going to significantly push Miami closer to a Super Bowl in 2024.

MORE: 2024 NFL Strength of Schedule

CBS Sports -- Rank: 15

The Dolphins lost some key players in free agency, but they have done a nice job of filling in for their losses. Oh, and they added more speed.

USA Today -- Rank: 17

After taking some broadsides in free agency, they got good players in the draft. Yet their overlap with some already strong areas of the depth chart, combined with degradation in the middle of each line, portend potential pitfalls for a team riding a 23-season streak without a playoff win — currently the league's longest.

The Athletic -- Rank: 16

Mike McDaniel is committed to the bit. The head coach of the NFL's fastest team traded up to take the second-fastest running back in this year's draft in Round 4 (Tennessee's Jaylen Wright) and then drafted a high school sprinting state champion — Virginia wide receiver Malik Washington — in the fifth round. Give him credit, too, for getting big guys in the first two rounds in edge Chop Robinson and offensive tackle Patrick Paul.

Fox Sports -- Rank: 16

I worry about the Dolphins. The skill positions are as good as it gets, but I'm not sold that they improved the offensive line, which was their downfall last year. On defense, they lost Christian Wilkins, and both Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips are coming off major injuries. Past versions of this team haven't been able to hold up over the grind of an 18-week season, and I have my doubts about this one.

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Las Vegas Raiders 2024 NFL power rankings post-draft roundup

Throughout the 2024 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Below you will find a post-NFL draft roundup for the Las Vegas Raiders in our consensus 2024 NFL Power Rankings.

ESPN -- Rank: 25

Most improved: Defensive tackle

Signing an elite free agent in Christian Wilkins, who brings 20.5 career sacks with him to Las Vegas, does more than improve the position from a pass-rush perspective -- it makes the Raiders' defense potentially a top-10 unit. Wilkins, who had a career-high 9.0 sacks for the Dolphins last season, had more sacks in 2023 than fellow Raiders DTs John Jenkins (3.5), Matthew Butler (0.5), Byron Young (0) and Nesta Jade Silvera (0) have combined in their careers. But DT Adam Butler had 5.0 of his 22.0 career sacks for Las Vegas last season. Adding Wilkins should also stop offensive lines from double-teaming Pro Bowl edge rusher Maxx Crosby so much. -- Paul Gutierrez

NFL.com -- Rank: 23

Once six quarterbacks -- namely Michael Penix Jr. -- went off the board ahead of the Raiders' pick, it really streamlined their options. But getting Brock Bowers at No. 13? That's a steal to me, until proven otherwise. Maybe Penix would have qualified as the all-time honorary Al Davis selection if the Raiders had taken a first-round gamble on him, but as a high-upside athletic playmaker, Bowers isn't far off. Bowers can help this team, and people freaking out about having multiple quality tight ends (Bowers and Michael Mayer) will hopefully see that down the road. The QB duo of Gardner Minshew and Aidan O'Connell might not be the most spine-tingling combination, but giving them a decent cast of targets can't hurt. The defense also should carry a fairly heavy share of the load. No, this isn't yet a Super Bowl-caliber roster, but the Raiders have gotten better this offseason.

MORE: 2024 NFL Strength of Schedule

CBS Sports -- Rank: 24

Is it Gardner Minshew or Aidan O'Connell at quarterback? By failing to land a quarterback in the draft, that's what they are left with in a division with Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert.

USA Today -- Rank: 24

They remain a quarterback away, seemingly by their own admission. Yet they won't be pushovers, either, bridge QB Gardner Minshew II — a Pro Bowler in 2023 for whatever that's worth anymore — a good Sin City bet to roll from a very hot table on many weeks ... and be a cooler on others.

The Athletic -- Rank: 25

The Raiders were rumored to be in the quarterback trade market but stayed in their draft slot and took the best player available — Georgia tight end Brock Bowers. It was a very un-Vegas move. Then they compounded the common sense by taking offensive linemen with their next two picks.

Fox Sports -- Rank: 28

There's too much talent in Las Vegas for a ranking this low. The Raiders have a feisty defense, now headlined by Christian Wilkins along with Maxx Crosby. Davante Adams is still a top-tier receiver. But how high can the ceiling really be without a better option at quarterback? Gardner Minshew was good enough to nearly win the AFC South, but something tells me that's not going to happen in Patrick Mahomes' division.

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Jacksonville Jaguars 2024 NFL power rankings post-draft roundup

Throughout the 2024 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Below you will find a post-NFL draft roundup for the Jacksonville Jaguars in our consensus 2024 NFL Power Rankings.

ESPN -- Rank: 13

Most improved: Defensive line

Signing Arik Armstead and drafting Maason Smith (second round) and Jordan Jefferson (fourth round) significantly upgrades the defensive tackle rotation and should improve the team's run defense. That was one of the biggest problems during the team's 1-5 record over the final six weeks: The Jaguars gave up 44.4 more yards per game rushing in Weeks 13-18 than they did in Weeks 1-12. Armstead also provides an interior pass-rush presence the team lacked last season, in part because of DaVon Hamilton's back injury. -- Michael DiRocco

NFL.com -- Rank: 14

The Jaguars hoovered up an SEC-heavy class that arguably improved the offense, defense and special teams, and there appeared to be solid value throughout. Trading back six spots in Round 1 and nabbing receiver Brian Thomas Jr. was a strong first move, and I'd challenge anyone saying that defensive tackle Maason Smith was a reach in Round 2. Four DTs came off the board in a five-pick span near the top of the round, so Smith wasn't lasting much longer than where he went (No. 48 overall). Plus, if you watched Smith down the stretch last season, he started looking more like he did before he tore his ACL in 2022. I could have used a little more help at cornerback, and drafting a kicker (Cam Little) -- especially one who must beat out two veterans to make the team -- is always risky business. But all told, the Jags had themselves a productive draft weekend.

MORE: 2024 NFL Strength of Schedule

CBS Sports -- Rank: 12

They flopped midway through the season in 2023 because they weren't ready to handle the challenge. It didn't help that Trevor Lawrence was playing hurt. They will push Houston in the division after a nice draft.

USA Today -- Rank: 21

Are they much better prepared to protect QB Trevor Lawrence? Are they much better prepared to shut down opposing passers? Is there any reason to believe they've kept pace with the Texans and Colts this offseason?

The Athletic -- Rank: 26

The Jaguars like LSU players, and they don't much care what everyone else thinks of their new players. Jacksonville started the draft by taking wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr., the first of three Tigers it drafted. The next eight players all ranked among some of the biggest reaches in the draft based on consensus mock draft rankings.

Fox Sports -- Rank: 18

Adding Brian Thomas Jr. offsets the loss of Calvin Ridley. The rookie — together with Gabe Davis, Christian Kirk, Evan Engram and Travis Etienne — gives Trevor Lawrence a solid group of weapons. I'm still concerned about the Jags' offensive line. And even with Josh Allen signed for the long-term, I'm not convinced this defense got much better.

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Green Bay Packers 2024 NFL power rankings post-draft roundup

Throughout the 2024 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Below you will find a post-NFL draft roundup for the Green Bay Packers in our consensus 2024 NFL Power Rankings.

ESPN -- Rank: 10

Most improved: Safety

The Packers essentially started over here by making a huge free agent splash with Xavier McKinney (four-year, $68 million contract) and then drafting three safeties: Javon Bullard (second round), Evan Williams (fourth) and Kitan Oladapo (fifth) after they moved on from Darnell Savage, Jonathan Owens and Rudy Ford -- a trio that combined to play nearly 2,000 snaps last season. -- Rob Demovsky

NFL.com -- Rank: 8

The biggest question coming out of the draft might be where first-rounder Jordan Morgan ends up playing next season. Does he compete for the starting left tackle job? Or is a move inside a better fit for his skill set? I'm in the "try him at tackle" camp, having watched Morgan enough to believe his lack of prototypical length shouldn't be an issue, and I am not sure he's ideal at guard, where his lack of elite power might actually hinder his growth. This might be heresy, but I referred to Morgan as a poor man's David Bakhtiari at one point. We'll see. Protecting Jordan Love is, of course, the highest priority now. Green Bay watched the quarterback blossom into near stardom down the stretch of last season, completely flipping the midseason script after some early struggles. This is a team that reasonably can go a long way, but that left tackle spot is worth monitoring.

MORE: 2024 NFL Strength of Schedule

CBS Sports -- Rank: 6

With Jordan Love showing he can be their guy for the long run last season and a lot of talented receivers, they will score. The defense will have a new look -- and it will be better.

USA Today -- Rank: 5

After taking an unexpected quantum leap in 2023, they added first-round LT Jordan Morgan, second-round ILB Edgerrin Cooper and second-round S Javon Bullard — and all should be upgrades at their respective positions. The apparent absence of an elite offensive weapon — and new RB Josh Jacobs isn't quite that — might be the only thing holding this ascendant Pack back.

The Athletic -- Rank: 6

While everyone's draft focus was on the Falcons saying they were trying to turbocharge the Packers' quarterback succession model, Green Bay might have quietly done it again. The Packers picked Tulane quarterback Michael Pratt in the seventh round. The 6-foot-3, 217-pound Pratt might have to wait a long time if he's going to succeed Jordan Love, but he's more than worth the gamble at pick No. 245 after starting 44 college games and throwing 90 career touchdowns.

Fox Sports -- Rank: 6

So much of the Packers' success will hinge on Jordan Love and all of his young pass-catchers continuing to ascend. But adding Josh Jacobs and Xavier McKinney to a team that finished 2023 on a red-hot run looks awfully appealing. It would also be great if new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley can coax more production out of that defense.

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Los Angeles Rams NFL power rankings post-draft roundup

Throughout the 2024 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Below you will find a post-NFL draft roundup for the Los Angeles Rams in our consensus 2024 NFL Power Rankings.

ESPN -- Rank: 14

Most improved: Secondary

The Rams did a lot to improve their defensive front in the draft, but they still had Aaron Donald on their roster at the end of the 2023 season. Last season, Los Angeles had 10 interceptions -- tied for 23rd in the NFL. Improving the secondary was a focus during free agency and the draft, with the Rams signing cornerbacks Tre'Davious White and Darious Williams and safety Kamren Curl and selecting safety Kamren Kinchens in the fifth round. -- Sarah Barshop

NFL.com -- Rank: 17

This figured to be a blue-collar draft of sorts, especially when it came to rebuilding the post-Aaron Donald defensive line. I sat next to Rams linebacker Olakunle Fatukasi on my flight back from the draft and asked him about GM Les Snead's haul. "D-line, my goodness," Fatukasi said. "That's how you do it." Four picks, because no one man can replace A.D., with two inside (Braden Fiske in Round 2 and Tyler Davis in Round 6) and two on the edge (Jared Verse in Round 1 and Brennan Jackson in Round 5). The cost to move up for Fiske (a 2025 second-rounder) was steep, but he and his former running mate at Florida State, Verse, could be terrific alongside last year's strong rookie duo of Byron Young and Kobie Turner. I also loved L.A. grabbing running back Blake Corum in Round 3 as a complement to Kyren Williams; that pair will be a pain in the rump for defenses to corral. The Rams couldn't check off every box, but I can't find much fault in their overall approach.

MORE: 2024 NFL Strength of Schedule

CBS Sports -- Rank: 9

They had a terrific draft, but the retirement of Aaron Donald will be felt by the defense. Even so, Sean McVay will have them pushing the 49ers for the division title.

USA Today -- Rank: 12

Though it seems like this team is getting increasingly younger on the heels of what could be a banner draft — and Aaron Donald's retirement — its two oldest players are QBs Matthew Stafford (36) and Jimmy Garoppolo (32).

The Athletic -- Rank: 12

Jared Verse must feel special. That's whom Los Angeles picked with its first first-round pick since 2016 (which it spent on Jared Goff). Verse, and his former Florida State teammate Braden Fiske, a defensive tackle, will help a defense that finished 22nd last year in points allowed (22.2). Now if they can keep quarterback Matthew Stafford happy (he wants a contract adjustment with more guaranteed money, NFL Network reported during the draft), they'll be a sleeper NFC title game candidate.

Fox Sports -- Rank: 11

I love so much about what the Rams have done this year. Re-signing Kevin Dotson and bringing in Jonah Jackson has their offensive line looking formidable. Kamren Curl and Tre'Davious White are nice, affordable signings on defense. They added some exciting draft picks. But you're just not going to climb in the power rankings when a legend like Aaron Donald retires. Even if the young talent on defense looks promising, there's no replacing a force like Donald.

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New York Jets 2024 NFL power rankings post-draft roundup

Throughout the 2024 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Below you will find a post-NFL draft roundup for the New York Jets in our consensus 2024 NFL Power Rankings.

ESPN -- Rank: 17

Most improved: Offensive line

The Jets were the only team last season to rank in the bottom four in both pass block win rate (50%, 30th) and run block win rate (67.7%, 29th), so they had to do something to beef up Aaron Rodgers' protection. And they did, acquiring three veteran starters (LT Tyron Smith, LG John Simpson and RG Morgan Moses) and drafting LT Olu Fashanu in the first round. The return of RG Alijah Vera-Tucker (Achilles) will help too. Smith and Moses, both 33, aren't long-term answers, and Simpson is a middling player, but the line is in better shape than last season. The depth, led by Fashanu, is better too. -- Rich Cimini

NFL.com -- Rank: 21

The Jets were having a good weekend. They got their tackle at No. 11 overall in Olu Fashanu -- he was not my favorite of the options they had, but he was not far off. They also passed on the sizzle pick (Brock Bowers) to do so. GM Joe Douglas looks like a man hell-bent on making sure this offensive line finally works. Rounds 3 through 5 landed them some prospects I really liked, even though doubling up at running back with Braelon Allen in the fourth round felt a little redundant. All in all, it looked like a productive weekend. But then I saw the trade of John Franklin-Myers to Denver, and I didn't like it. Look, I get why the Jets did it: they gave themselves some cap relief and had a surplus up front. But if there ever was a time to push all their chips in, with Aaron Rodgers perhaps in his swan-song season, isn't this it? Maybe I'm leaning too much on my "theatre kid" past here, but don't underestimate the locker-room effect that comes with moving JFM.

MORE: 2024 NFL Strength of Schedule

CBS Sports -- Rank: 11

It's go-time for the Jets. With Aaron Rodgers coming back at age 40, this has to be the year. They have all the pieces.

USA Today -- Rank: 10

All due respect to new QB2 Tyrod Taylor, this team is one Aaron Rodgers injury away from a 14th consecutive season finishing shy of the playoffs — which would extend the current NFL mark of futility. Yet reloaded and reinforced, it's also one vintage Rodgers performance from its first Super Bowl appearance in 56 years.

The Athletic -- Rank: 17

The Jets drafted an Aaron Rodgers support staff, getting offensive tackle Olu Fashanu, wide receiver Malachi Corley and running back Braelon Allen with their first three picks. Fashanu might not start right away, but he has that kind of talent, and Corley should join Mike Williams and Garrett Wilson in the starting lineup immediately.

Fox Sports -- Rank: 13

Counting on the health of a 40-year-old quarterback recovering from an Achilles tear is a scary place to be. That said, I think the Jets have done all the right things to get ready for Aaron Rodgers' second attempt in New York. Beefing up the offensive tackle spot with Tyron Smith and Morgan Moses was an amazing decision, and I'm so proud of general manager Joe Douglas for insuring those guys with No. 11 overall pick Olu Fashanu. Douglas even signed a competent backup quarterback in Tyrod Taylor. That's how you protect an aging QB. We know the defense will be top-notch. Now, if Rodgers can just deliver the rest.

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Detroit Lions 2024 NFL power rankings post-draft roundup

Throughout the 2024 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Below you will find a post-NFL draft roundup for the Detroit Lions in our consensus 2024 NFL Power Rankings.

ESPN -- Rank: 4

Most improved: Secondary

It's no secret that Detroit needed help in the secondary after allowing 28 passing touchdowns last season -- which was the sixth worst in the league. So the Lions drafted two DBs -- Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. -- with their first two picks of the draft, which is a first for the team during the common draft era (i.e., since 1967). The rookies join free agent signees Carlton Davis III and Amik Robertson. After loading up at the position, GM Brad Holmes noted there will be plenty of competition for the starting jobs. On paper, it's a major upgrade. -- Eric Woodyard

NFL.com -- Rank: 4

The entire draft weekend in Detroit felt like a celebration of the Lions, and rightfully so. After signing foundational pieces Amon-Ra St. Brown and Penei Sewell to extensions, the Lions swung up on draft day to pluck one of the top two cornerbacks on the board. Terrion Arnold might not walk into the building in Allen Park as a ready-made shutdown corner, but he has that potential and fills a pretty big necessity for a team that should very much be in the Super Bowl mix this coming season. Doubling up at the position with Ennis Rakestraw Jr. was outstanding. Corner was Detroit's biggest need, and they landed two of my top six in this draft class. Their two sixth-rounders -- DT Mekhi Wingo and OG Christian Mahogany -- definitely could make the final roster, too. The Lions attacked the draft like a team that believes it can and will compete for the Lombardi Trophy in the 2024 campaign, and who am I to doubt them?

MORE: 2024 NFL Strength of Schedule

CBS Sports -- Rank: 4

The Lions showed how good they were last season by coming within a whisker of getting to the Super Bowl. Now comes the tough part: Dealing with being a hunted team.

USA Today -- Rank: 4

They still project as the class of the NFC North, especially after bringing in three quality corners (Carlton Davis III and rookies Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr.) for a 27th-ranked pass defense. But this division looks a heckuva lot tighter and will almost certainly be the class of the conference, if not the league, in 2024.

The Athletic -- Rank: 3

Detroit was 28th last season in defensive passing EPA so it used its first two picks on cornerbacks. Sensible enough. Then the Lions returned to their contrarian form by using their third pick (a fourth-rounder, which they acquired by trading away a 2025 third-rounder) on a Tongan offensive tackle from Canada (Giovanni Manu) whom Brugler projected as a priority free agent. That's the wacky Brad Holmes-Dan Campbell Lions we've come to love here.

Fox Sports -- Rank: 4

The Lions return almost the exact same offense that lit up the league last season, complete with major extensions for Amon-Ra St. Brown and Penei Sewell. The defense looks vastly upgraded, with D.J. Reader manning the middle of the defensive line and three new corners in the secondary. On paper, the Lions look better than the team that fell oh-so short of the Super Bowl, and they should be eager to prove it.

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Seattle Seahawks 2024 NFL power rankings post-draft roundup

Throughout the 2024 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Below you will find a post-NFL draft roundup for the Seattle Seahawks in our consensus 2024 NFL Power Rankings.

ESPN -- Rank: 21

Most improved: Defensive line

The Seahawks used the 16th pick to draft Texas defensive tackle Byron Murphy II, whom they considered the best defender in this year's draft. They previously signed veteran nose tackle Johnathan Hankins on a one-year deal to be an early-down run-stuffer. Murphy is a three-down player, but between his addition and that of Hankins, as well as a full season of Leonard Williams and new coach Mike Macdonald's scheme, Seattle should be better against the run after allowing the most rushing yards (4,906) of any team over the past two seasons. -- Brady Henderson

NFL.com -- Rank: 24

I'd caught wind that the Seahawks might be leaning defense in Round 1, even after all the offensive line talk leading up to the draft, but I had the wrong position -- and I'm not mad about it at all. As president of the Byron Murphy Fan Club, I fully endorse the selection. He was a top-10 player to me, size concerns be damned. Sometimes you just fall for a guy, and he's that guy. Mike Macdonald now can have some fun with his DL combinations. Say what you will about the actual results the past few seasons, but the Seahawks have some dudes up front. There are some things to figure out on the second level, but the secondary also should be pretty nice. I admit this ranking doesn't exactly scream that I'm in love with the Seahawks, but if they can squeeze one more quality year out of Geno Smith, they might be far better than this slot indicates.

MORE: 2024 NFL Strength of Schedule

CBS Sports -- Rank: 25

New coach Mike Macdonald will get the defense playing much better. But this is a big year for Geno Smith after his play leveled off last season.

USA Today -- Rank: 25

Hard to know what to make of this team until we see how it adapts to new HC Mike Macdonald's philosophy and defensive scheme — not to mention new OC Ryan Grubb's approach — even while predecessor Pete Carroll's roster remains widely in place.

The Athletic -- Rank: 19

Seattle's first two picks weigh a combined 614 pounds, so we know general manager John Schneider, in his first draft post-Pete Carroll, wanted to rebuild the Seahawks' trenches. Defensive tackle Bryron Murphy II (6-foot, 297 pounds) might end up being the best defensive player in this draft, and guard Christian Haynes (6-3, 317) will provide immediate offensive line depth and a possible Day 1 starter.

Fox Sports -- Rank: 20

I really love Seattle's first two draft picks. Byron Murphy II and Christian Haynes could potentially make the Seahawks much better on the lines. I still wonder what Mike Macdonald's long-term vision is, because this feels like a team that could transition in 2025.

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Denver Broncos 2024 NFL power rankings post-draft roundup

Throughout the 2024 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Below you will find a post-NFL draft roundup for the Denver Broncos in our consensus 2024 NFL Power Rankings.

ESPN -- Rank: 31

Most improved: Defensive line

The Broncos trading for DE John Franklin-Myers during draft weekend was one of the best under-the-radar moves of the three-day affair. Denver acquired a player who will play and have an impact across its entire defensive front for a swap of sixth- and seventh-round draft picks. Franklin-Myers is a highly productive player who consistently pressures opposing passers. Couple that with the addition of Malcolm Roach, a powerful interior player who should help what was a wobbly run defense at times last season, and the Broncos have improved. -- Jeff Legwold

NFL.com -- Rank: 28

It always felt like Bo Nix and Sean Payton were going to end up together. Part of that had to do with the fact that the Broncos were hamstrung, both financially and in terms of draft capital. But there's also a style crossover that makes sense, with Payton known for his screen packages and the timing and rhythm of his system and Nix thriving in a similar environment up at Oregon. Left to his own devices, Nix can get himself in trouble at times. But if he allows Payton to shepherd him -- and deals with all the tough love that comes with that -- Nix might be in the best place to thrive eventually. Jerry Jeudy is gone, and Courtland Sutton's place with the team isn't clear, but adding a deep threat (Troy Franklin) to a semi-promising WR room was a smart play, too. I'm kind of interested in seeing how fast and well Nix can grab hold of his opportunity.

MORE: 2024 NFL Strength of Schedule

CBS Sports -- Rank: 28

They took Bo Nix 12th overall to be their quarterback. When does he play? When should he play? It's all about Nix now.

USA Today -- Rank: 29

Admittedly a low slotting for a team in a division where second place might be up for grabs yet has a made guy like Sean Payton calling the shots. But given how bad Denver was on both sides of the ball in 2023, QB Bo Nix —steady and mature as he is — has a Rocky Mountain climb to thrive as a rookie with this supporting cast and while attempting to ingest Payton's demanding system.

The Athletic -- Rank: 31

The Falcons' quarterback selection kept Denver off the national hot seat. The Broncos took Oregon quarterback Bo Nix at No. 12, which was 32 spots higher than The Athletic's Dane Brugler had him ranked. If it works, Sean Payton can turn Denver around quickly. If it doesn't, it'll be another in a series of very curious Broncos moves.

Fox Sports -- Rank: 31

Will it be Bo Nix, Jarrett Stidham or Zach Wilson starting at quarterback? Doesn't that question tell you a lot about what to expect from the Broncos? This feels like a season to take some lumps, develop their new quarterback and get the disastrous Russell Wilson contract off their books.

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Friday, May 17, 2024

Houston Texans 2024 NFL power rankings post-draft roundup

Throughout the 2024 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Below you will find a post-NFL draft roundup for the Houston Texans in our consensus 2024 NFL Power Rankings.

ESPN -- Rank: 6

Most improved: Pass-catchers

The Texans traded for running back Joe Mixon and four-time Pro Bowl receiver Stefon Diggs. Both can elevate C.J. Stroud's air attack going into Year 2. Since 2020, Diggs ranks fourth in yards (5,372) and touchdowns (37) while leading in receptions (445) among all receivers. Mixon has tallied 1,131 receiving yards in the past three years, so he's an effective option. Adding Diggs and Mixon to a group with Nico Collins, Tank Dell and Dalton Schultz could lead to an even more explosive offense in 2024. -- DJ Bien-Aime

NFL.com -- Rank: 6

The 2025 second-rounder the Texans landed from the Vikings by moving out of the first round in March allowed them to trade for Stefon Diggs, which crippled one of their main competitors in the AFC. A solid Day 2 haul (DB Kamari Lassiter, OT Blake Fisher and S Calen Bullock) didn't move the needle a ton, but did provide insurance and depth at a few previously shaky spots. I just appreciate what Nick Caserio and DeMeco Ryans are building here. They absolutely nailed the draft last year (SEE: Houston sweeping the 2023 Rookie of the Year awards), allowing them to put on more of a full-court press this offseason and move this team another step or two closer to competing for a title. For fans of other teams coming off rough seasons, look to the Texans as the model your squad should follow. A new day has dawned in Houston, just over a year after things looked pretty bleak.

MORE: 2024 NFL Strength of Schedule

CBS Sports -- Rank: 8

They've had a great offseason, adding a lot of key pieces, which means they should be the best team in the division. But now they have to handle dealing with expectations, which Jacksonville didn't do last season in the same division.

USA Today -- Rank: 8

We know they'll look good. But how will they play with the added burden of what are sure to be Texas-sized expectations for a franchise that's never advanced beyond the divisional playoff round? The veteran acquisitions (Diggs, RB Joe Mixon, DE Danielle Hunter) need to be the difference-makers they're unlikely to find among this year's rookies — who have no chance of matching last year's freshmen (QB C.J. Stroud, DE Will Anderson Jr., WR Tank Dell).

The Athletic -- Rank: 5

The Texans added a lot of players (nine) but nobody who is expected to move the needle much this season. Having no first-round pick this year is the price they paid for wheeling and dealing in last year's draft. It's a price they were happy to pay considering they got quarterback C.J. Stroud and edge Will Anderson Jr. in that draft, which is why they're still high on this list.

Fox Sports -- Rank: 5

I was worried about how well the Texans would replace all their free agent losses, but I guess I shouldn't have been. Houston stockpiled its defense with free-agent signings, and on offense the trades for Stefon Diggs and Joe Mixon should help C.J. Stroud take things up a notch. It's going to be fun to see if the Texans can truly ascend into the league's elite.

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New Orleans Saints 2024 NFL power rankings post-draft roundup

Throughout the 2024 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Below you will find a Week 18 roundup for the New Orleans Saints in our consensus 2024 NFL Power Rankings.

ESPN -- Rank: 24

Most improved: Cornerback

This answer could change if the Saints trade Marshon Lattimore this summer, but the addition of second-round pick Kool-Aid McKinstry is a solid addition to a group that includes Paulson Adebo and Alontae Taylor. New Orleans didn't improve in a lot of areas this offseason, but McKinstry could either be in the rotation right away or be trained as Lattimore's replacement. -- Katherine Terrell

NFL.com -- Rank: 25

To me, the Saints' draft hinges on their top three guys: OT Taliese Fuaga, CB Kool-Aid McKinstry and QB Spencer Rattler, in that order for now. The massive Fuaga fills a huge hole, assuming he can handle speed rushers early. Kool-Aid doesn't need to play a lot of snaps immediately but could be Paulson Adebo's replacement in 2025. And then there's Rattler. Look, he was a fifth-round pick for a reason, but I'm lightly buying stock on him. Derek Carr's future hangs in the balance, and I know Jake Haener was a higher pick (No. 127 overall) than Rattler (No. 150) just a year ago, but there's something about the South Carolina QB I can't quit. He might have landed in the perfect spot. Or, for all we know, he might be the Saints' latest Day 3 dart throw that misses the mark. But if Rattler gets a chance down the road, he could really make this class shine in a few years.

MORE: 2024 NFL Strength of Schedule

CBS Sports -- Rank: 27

They will have a new-look offense with a new coordinator in Klint Kubiak, but are they any better on that side of the ball when it comes to talent? Age has also crept in on defense.

USA Today -- Rank: 27

Unless new OC Klint Kubiak radically rejuvenates this offense, just feels like this krewe is steadily losing ground — or at least entrenched at mediocre — in a division that's incrementally advancing beyond average. The top draft picks (OT Taliese Fuaga, CB Kool-Aid McKinstry) are good players, but ones unlikely to change this team's trajectory for the better in the near term.

The Athletic -- Rank: 30

The Saints might have stumbled into their next starting quarterback ... or into a quarterback controversy. New Orleans drafted South Carolina's Spencer Rattler with the 150th pick. Given current starter Derek Carr's sometimes shaky hold on the job and Rattler's NFL arm, Saints fans might be calling for a change by midseason.

Fox Sports -- Rank: 25

I really think the Saints could be a solid team with better offensive line play. Is it realistic to think they'll get that in 2024? Hard to say. First-round pick Taliese Fuaga looks like a badass, but what does the future hold for Ryan Ramczyk? Tough to feel good about Derek Carr's prospects without knowing more about the guys up front.

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Cleveland Browns 2024 NFL power rankings post-draft roundup

Throughout the 2024 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Below you will find a post-NFL draft roundup for the Cleveland Browns in our consensus 2024 NFL Power Rankings.

ESPN -- Rank: 12

Most improved: Wide receiver

It has been a rather quiet offseason for the Browns, who have mainly re-signed their own and made small outside additions. However, the team's biggest move has been its trade for wide receiver Jerry Jeudy. The 2020 first-round pick has yet to eclipse 1,000 receiving yards in a season but gives Cleveland additional playmaking in the passing game alongside wide receiver Amari Cooper and tight end David Njoku. Jeudy averaged a career-high 6 yards after catch per reception last season, a figure that ranked ninth in the league among 77 wide receivers with at least 50 targets. -- Daniel Oyefusi

NFL.com -- Rank: 12

For where they were picking, the Browns did OK for themselves, especially with the top three selections of DT Michael Hall Jr., G Zak Zinter and WR Jamari Thrash. They attacked some of their bigger needs, mostly aimed at getting younger, and did a solid job throughout. Even CB Myles Harden, scooped up in the seventh round, got me a little excited. And their approach was slightly out of character, with GM Andrew Berry not pulling off a single trade and the Browns selecting a few older prospects. But all of that is window dressing for the major storyline this year: Can Deshaun Watson prove his worth? Nick Chubb's status is still a question mark as he recovers from last year's major knee injury, but the offensive line should mostly be back healthy. There are five (or more) quality pass-catching options. The defense, we know, is top-notch. So all eyes turn to No. 4. He's potentially the difference between a good season and a great one.

MORE: 2024 NFL Strength of Schedule

CBS Sports -- Rank: 14

They will get Deshaun Watson back healthy this year, which puts all the pressure on him to get this team to the playoffs again. Hey, Joe Flacco did it.

USA Today -- Rank: 11

Rookie DT Michael Hall Jr. is the first player this team has selected in the first two rounds over the past three drafts. Their Deshaun Watson draft debt paid in full, the Browns are scheduled to return to Round 1 in 2025. But do they have enough, aside from the return of Watson and RB Nick Chubb, to go further in the interim?

The Athletic -- Rank: 8

It's tough to add much help when your first pick is at No. 54, but Cleveland was still paying bills from the Deshaun Watson trade. The good news is that trade is now officially complete, and the Browns will have a first-round draft pick in 2025 for the first time since 2021. Unless, of course, they make another deal.

Fox Sports -- Rank: 10

Theoretically, the Browns have a loaded roster and are getting their starting QB back from injury. Now, Deshaun Watson just needs to actually play like the guy they traded the farm to get. If he does, Cleveland is a contender. If he doesn't, yikes.

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Los Angeles Chargers 2024 NFL power rankings post-draft roundup

Throughout the 2024 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Below you will find a post-NFL draft roundup for the Los Angeles Chargers in our consensus 2024 NFL Power Rankings.

ESPN -- Rank: 22

Most improved: Offensive line

This offseason has featured the departures of some of the Chargers' best players, including wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, tight end Gerald Everett and running back Austin Ekeler. Los Angeles hasn't made any noticeable upgrades at those spots, but it has done so on the O-line. To help build the running offense and protect quarterback Justin Herbert, the Chargers signed center Bradley Bozeman and general manager Joe Hortiz used the fifth pick to draft Notre Dame tackle Joe Alt. -- Kris Rhim

NFL.com -- Rank: 15

I'll probably bump the Chargers up two or three spots between now and training camp, hoping many won't notice. Yes, backing the Bolts in recent years (or decades) has been an exercise in futility, but I still lump them in with some of the biggest offseason winners for landing Jim Harbaugh and all the players he's brought in since, and I will continue to do so. Five years from now, we'll see if taking tackle Joe Alt fifth overall over receiver Malik Nabers was the right call, but I definitely see the thinking on some level. Has Los Angeles done enough at wide receiver or cornerback to jump into one of the top-contender tiers? Well, we'll see. My suspicion is no, not yet, but second-round pick Ladd McConkey could be the Chargers' WR3 immediately, and they easily can find a less costly veteran to round that group out over the summer.

MORE: 2024 NFL Strength of Schedule

CBS Sports -- Rank: 18

Jim Harbaugh will instill a toughness into this group, but it will be interesting to see how he works with Justin Herbert. He can't turn him into a game manager.

USA Today -- Rank: 16

The 2011 49ers improved by seven wins in then-HC Jim Harbaugh's first season. These Bolts are also getting built inside out and, all due respect to Alex Smith, Justin Herbert is a better quarterback. So ... 12 wins here? (Highly unlikely, but you can see where this could be headed.)

The Athletic -- Rank: 21

Jim Harbaugh stuck to his guns. After saying for weeks leading up to the draft that his team placed a premium on offensive linemen, he passed on two elite wide receiver prospects (Malik Nabers and Rome Odunze) to take offensive tackle Joe Alt fifth. "Offensive linemen we look at as weapons," Harbaugh said. "Offensive line is the tip of the spear."

Fox Sports -- Rank: 26

Justin Herbert with Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt protecting him is a solid place to start, and I trust Jim Harbaugh to get this moving in the right direction. I still ultimately think the Chargers are in the early stages of a multi-year rebuild. This offseason has been a strong start, but I think this team is another offseason away from making real noise.

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Chicago Bears 2024 NFL power rankings post-draft roundup

Throughout the 2024 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Below you will find a post-NFL draft roundup for the Chicago Bears in our consensus 2024 NFL Power Rankings.

ESPN -- Rank: 16

Most improved: Quarterback

Justin Fields reached a career-high 2,562 passing yards in his third season in Chicago while accounting for 20 total touchdowns and nine interceptions. Those numbers were an improvement but still highlighted the inconsistencies the team has long had with its quarterback play.

With No. 1 pick Caleb Williams, the Bears expect those numbers to spike considerably, given the upgrade of his capabilities as a passer. Williams' arm strength, accuracy, mobility and ability to hit the same target whether he's under pressure or not are qualities Chicago believes will elevate the entire offense and take a passing attack that ranked 27th (182.1 YPG) to new heights. -- Courtney Cronin

NFL.com -- Rank: 16

We've graduated the Bears to the top half of the NFL. It's no charity situation, either. QB Caleb Williams' arrival was forecasted for weeks, but landing WR Rome Odunze as a new target for Williams at No. 9 overall was pretty darned exciting. I kept thinking Chicago would move down to add more picks, but the Bears stuck with Odunze and found a way to swing back into Round 5 -- after they'd used all four of the selections with which they entered the draft -- to pluck fascinating edge Austin Booker. But back to the offense. The Bears have a legitimate one now. No, really. Williams, Odunze, WR Keenan Allen and RB D'Andre Swift are four major additions to a group that was starting to show some promise in 2023. The upgrades mean new coordinator Shane Waldron will have no excuses not to be somewhere on the upper end of the league's spectrum, if not still a shade behind the truly elite units. Even in the really tough NFC North, that should be enough to get Chicago into the playoff mix.

MORE: 2024 NFL Strength of Schedule

CBS Sports -- Rank: 17

By drafting Caleb Williams first and Rome Odunze ninth, they have the makings of a special offense. If Williams is the real deal, they could push to win the division.

USA Today -- Rank: 15

Yes, they drafted first overall to get QB Caleb Williams, but don't forget this team went 7-10 (including a 5-3 finish) before its infusion of rookie talent — and WR Rome Odunze is a huge part of that equation — and the acquisitions of veteran WR Keenan Allen, RB D'Andre Swift, TE Gerald Everett and S Kevin Byard. The playoffs should be a legit possibility in 2024.

The Athletic -- Rank: 13

No one moved up more in this edition of the Power Rankings than the Bears, who drafted uber-talented quarterback Caleb Williams with the No. 1 pick and elite wide receiver prospect Rome Odunze with the No. 9 pick. They made only five draft picks, but that's not doing anything to slow down expectations in Chicago. The Bears have one division title in the last 13 years, but they're expected to be true challengers to the Lions and Packers this year.

Fox Sports -- Rank: 15

No pressure, Caleb. The defense was great down the home stretch of 2023, and now the offense has the No. 1 overall pick at quarterback, a loaded receiver corps, a 1,000-yard rusher and a capable offensive line. I don't expect Caleb Williams and the new-look Bears to do anything crazy like win the division, but I do expect them to be a fun, competitive squad. That'd be a hell of a first step for Chicago.

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