The Daily Blitz

Sunday, January 3, 2021

Jacksonville Jaguars Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Jacksonville Jaguars rank in terms of average, best and worst:

Average ranking: 32.0 (32nd)
Best ranking: 32nd (Multiple)
Worst ranking: 32nd (Multiple)

Below you will find a Week 17 roundup for the Jaguars in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 32

Cam Robinson, OT: He has not been great, but Robinson is a 25-year-old left tackle with 46 starts under his belt. There's always going to be a market for players with that profile. The Jaguars will have to decide whether they want Robinson to protect Trevor Lawrence's blind side or whether they want to let him walk and go in a different direction.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 32

It's official. They will be drafting Trevor Lawrence. Now the question is who will be coaching him.

USA Today -- Rank: 32

They've got a checkered (at best) history, but have never finished a year without at least two wins ... but a 15-game losing streak looms.

ESPN -- Rank: 32

New Year's resolution: Make the right hires

Sounds straightforward and simple, but the Jaguars haven't done that very often in their history, which is a large part of why they're 1-14 and locked into the No. 1 pick (which isn't a bad thing in this instance, because, Trevor Lawrence). The Jaguars have seven picks in the first four rounds, including four in the first two, and they have to nail those early picks to turn things around. Taking Lawrence is easy, but he alone isn't going to make this franchise a contender next year. We've seen what not having the right hires has done to this franchise, so owner Shad Khan has to make the right choices or he'll be facing another lost decade. -- Mike DiRocco

NFL.com -- Rank: 32

The No. 1 overall pick is in the bag, which is the first win the Jags have had to celebrate in months. The week-long “quarterback competition” that ended with Mike Glennon starting over Gardner Minshew stretched the bounds of decency, but if Sunday's 41-17 loss to the Bears brings an elite QB solution to Duval for the next 15 years, can you really blame the Jags for their approach? Jacksonville is riding a 14-game losing streak and has lost 10 or more games nine times in the past 10 years. This is a team screaming out for a savior. Jacksonville might just get one.

Previous update: Jacksonville Jaguars Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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New York Jets Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the New York Jets rank in terms of average, best and worst:

Average ranking: 30.6 (31st)
Best ranking: 30th (Multiple)
Worst ranking: 31st (Multiple)

Below you will find a Week 17 roundup for the Jets in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 31

Marcus Maye, S: He's played 100 percent of the Jets' defensive snaps and has performed well in multiple roles. Maye is the type of young player (he'll be 28 at the start of next season) the Jets should be looking to hold on to, especially given their lack of talent.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 31

They've won two straight games and have looked decent in doing so. They should just keep Sam Darnold.

USA Today -- Rank: 30

Congrats, NYJ fans, you've clinched the No. 2 pick of the 2021 draft. Here's hoping you do the right thing and bookend OT Penei Sewell opposite Mekhi Becton.

ESPN -- Rank: 31

New Year's resolution: Hire a dynamic coach who can galvanize the whole organization

For too long, the Jets have been obsessed with hiring so-called offensive and defensive gurus as their head coaches. The current coach, Adam Gase, hasn't done much guru-ing, and he's expected to be fired. His replacement should be someone who can lead the entire team -- a CEO-type, if you will. There's a leadership void in the organization, and it needs a strong personality to create a winning culture. It doesn't matter if it's an offensive, defensive or special teams coach. -- Rich Cimini

NFL.com -- Rank: 30

The No. 1 overall pick was all but lost, so why not win another football game? That's exactly what the Jets did in their latest upset -- a 23-16 conquest over the Browns at the Meadowlands. Consider it something of a revenge game against Baker Mayfield, the quarterback who famously toppled the Jets in prime time in his NFL debut back in 2018. Mayfield fumbled three times on Sunday, including back-to-back fumbles that ended Cleveland's final two possessions. Sam Darnold, the QB taken two spots after Mayfield in the 2018 draft, threw two touchdown passes in what could be the final home start of his star-crossed Jets career. Huge decisions loom for GM Joe Douglas and the Jets' brain trust in the coming weeks and months.

Previous update: New York Jets Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Detroit Lions Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Detroit Lions rank in terms of average, best and worst:

Average ranking: 30.4 (30th)
Best ranking: 30th (Multiple)
Worst ranking: 31st (Multiple)

Below you will find a Week 17 roundup for the Lions in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 30

Kenny Golladay, WR: A hip injury has limited Golladay to just five games, and if teams fear that to be a long-term concern, it could depress his market somewhat. But assuming Golladay will be fine by the start of next season, he'll be one of the top wide receivers available. Golladay is a proven big-play threat who has averaged 16.9 yards per catch for his career, and his 11 touchdown catches in 2019 led the league.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 30

They should fire everybody who is left right now. This team is a disaster. That showing against the Bucs was as bad as it gets.

USA Today -- Rank: 31

After Saturday's debacle, they've now allowed a league-worst 482 points. Gonna be a very extensive rebuild for the next regime.

ESPN -- Rank: 30

New Year's resolution: Get the GM/head-coaching hires right

The Lions are once again facing a major organizational change, with a new general manager and head coach expected to be hired early in 2021. Without a division title since 1993 and a playoff win since the 1991 season and with questions at literally every position other than punter, making sure Detroit finally finds the correct pairing of head coach and general manager is imperative. The Lions have at least been talking with a plethora of candidates for the general manager search, a better sign of a more comprehensive process than when the team hired Bob Quinn. -- Michael Rothstein

NFL.com -- Rank: 31

The Lions end another lost season looking like one of the worst teams in football. The Bucs came to Ford Field on Saturday and rolled up 34 unanswered points in the first half en route to a 47-7 win that was every bit as grisly as the final score indicates. Yes, Detroit was without multiple coaches due to COVID-19 protocols, and Matthew Stafford's ankle injury on the team's second possession removed any semblance of drama from the proceedings, but this felt like an NFL squad playing against an Arena Football Team owned by Bon Jovi. Instead of digging any further into this depressing performance, we'll offer up a Random Fun Fact: The 2020 Lions are the second team in NFL history to have three different coaches function as head coach during the season. Nice … versatility?

Previous update: Detroit Lions Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Houston Texans Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Houston Texans rank in terms of average, best and worst:

Average ranking: 27.6 (28th)
Best ranking: 25th (The Athletic)
Worst ranking: 29th (Multiple)

Below you will find a Week 17 roundup for the Texans in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 25

Will Fuller, WR: He finished the season with career highs of 53 catches, 879 yards and eight touchdowns. Durability had previously been the question with Fuller. He started 11 games this season but then was suspended for the final five for violating the league's performance-enhancing drugs policy. Fuller is young (he turns 27 in April) and talented, but he is more of a boom-or-bust option than some of the other available wide receivers.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 27

The defense is awful right now. They can't even slow down a backup quarterback in Brandon Allen. On to next season.

USA Today -- Rank: 29

DE J.J. Watt is insulted by their effort ... so to add insult to insult, it appears Houston is going to earn a top-three draft pick for Miami as aftermath of Bill O'Brien's Laremy Tunsil deal continues to unfold.

ESPN -- Rank: 29

New Year's resolution: Find the right general manager and head coach for Deshaun Watson

This should be the singular goal for the Texans as they interview general managers and head coaches now and in the new year. Watson took a step forward in 2020, putting up the best numbers of his career despite losing DeAndre Hopkins in a trade during the offseason, then losing Will Fuller V to a six-game suspension during the season. The Texans' 4-11 record doesn't reflect how well Watson has played, and the new hires Houston makes need to reflect what is best, not only to help continue Watson's growth but also one who can build the right team around him. -- Sarah Barshop

NFL.com -- Rank: 28

J.J. Watt has had enough. "If you can't come in and put work in in the building, go out to the practice field and work hard, do your lifts and do what you're supposed to do, you should not be here." That was just part of the impassioned rant by the future Hall of Famer after another ugly Texans loss in a season Watt said has been the most difficult of his 10-year career. Watt's frustration speaks to a culture issue inside the Houston facility, and it will be on the next head coach and general manager to correct it. Will Watt be part of that future in Houston? He's a today player on a tomorrow team, but removing his leadership from the building could set the Texans back even further.

Previous update: Houston Texans Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Philadelphia Eagles Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Philadelphia Eagles rank in terms of average, best and worst:

Average ranking: 26.2 (27th)
Best ranking: 24th (NFL.com)
Worst ranking: 29th (The Athletic)

Below you will find a Week 17 roundup for the Eagles in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 29

Jalen Mills, DB: The Eagles don't have a lot of roster flexibility, and they don't have a lot of key pending free agents. Mills was a free agent last offseason and had to settle for a one-year, $4 million deal. He made the transition from corner to safety and has been average at best. Mills' value on the open market this offseason is unlikely to be much different than it was last year.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 26

Losing to the Cowboys makes it official: They won't be making the playoffs. But Jalen Hurts has flashed in his three starts.

USA Today -- Rank: 26

Committing three turnovers and 12 penalties for 115 yards is a pretty good way to eliminate yourself in an elimination game.

ESPN -- Rank: 26

New Year's resolution: Choose a quarterback

The Eagles tried to have their cake and eat it too by selecting intriguing prospect Jalen Hurts in the second round while already committed to Carson Wentz. The controversy that ensued proved exactly why you don't do that. While keeping both on the roster might be the most appealing financially and from a flexibility standpoint, doing so would put Philadelphia on a path leading to the exact spot it is in now. Pick a quarterback, move forward and learn from your mistakes. -- Tim McManus

NFL.com -- Rank: 24

You know you've had a bad campaign in 2020 when you get eliminated from NFC East contention before the final week of the season. Philly's defense got its doors blown off by Andy Dalton and the Cowboys in a 37-17 loss that ended any hopes of a fourth straight postseason for the Eagles. The game changed when defensive tackle Fletcher Cox exited with a neck stinger in the first half. After that, Dallas' elite young pass catchers had a field day against an undermanned Philly defense that surrendered more than 500 yards and four touchdowns. The Jalen Hurts-led offense wasn't blameless: The Eagles scored just three points in the last 50 minutes of this game, after scoring 14 points in the first 10.

+ Previous update: Philadelphia Eagles Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Denver Broncos Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Denver Broncos rank in terms of average, best and worst:

Average ranking: 25.8 (26th)
Best ranking: 21st (CBS Sports)
Worst ranking: 28th (USA Today)

Below you will find a Week 17 roundup for the Broncos in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 26

Justin Simmons, S: The Broncos used the franchise tag on Simmons last offseason and will try to sign him to a long-term deal. Simmons has a case to be the league's highest-paid safety. He hasn't missed a snap over the last three seasons, is 27 and just made the Pro Bowl.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 21

They have to be excited about the future. Vic Fangio is coming back, and it's the right thing to do.

USA Today -- Rank: 28

A league-high 32 turnovers is dreadful. But a -20 turnover differential that's twice as bad as any other team really sums up Denver's 2020.

ESPN -- Rank: 27

New Year's resolution: Get (and stay) healthy

People often say if you have your health you have everything. Well, the Broncos would certainly like to see if that can be true in 2021. The Broncos have lost four defensive starters -- including Von Miller for the entire season -- their No. 1 receiver (Courtland Sutton) for all but two games and two-time 1,000-yard rusher Phillip Lindsay. At one point the Broncos lost four cornerbacks to injury in a two-week span as a fifth -- A.J. Bouye -- was suspended for violating the league's PED policy. Toss in a game in which the Broncos had to play without a rostered quarterback due to COVID-19 protocols and it has been a season unlike any other Vic Fangio has seen in more than three decades in the NFL. -- Jeff Legwold

NFL.com -- Rank: 27

The Broncos showed fight in battling back from a 13-0 halftime deficit in Sunday's narrow loss to the Chargers, but maddening mistakes continue to be a trademark of this offense. Drew Lock threw two interceptions, extending his turnover streak to a league-worst 11 straight games, while rookie wideout Jerry Jeudy finished with five dropped passes. One came in the end zone, another had the chance to go for a game-winning score in the final minute. Jeudy has been the most targeted receiver on the Broncos this season, but those opportunities haven't translated into results for the second wideout taken in the 2020 NFL Draft. Jeudy is a gem that needs polish.

Previous update: Denver Broncos Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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New York Giants Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the New York Giants rank in terms of average, best and worst:

Average ranking: 25.2 (25th)
Best ranking: 23rd (ESPN)
Worst ranking: 27th (Multiple)

Below you will find a Week 17 roundup for the Giants in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 27

Leonard Williams, DT: The Giants traded for Williams last season and used the franchise tag to keep him. He ended up having a career year with 8.5 sacks and 25 QB hits and will now be even more expensive. Williams has hit the quarterback on 6.3 percent of his chances, which ranks ninth league-wide and is especially impressive for an interior lineman. It feels like he's been around forever, but Williams will be just 27 at the start of next season.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 24

They are still alive in the division race, which is amazing. They were bad in losing to the Ravens, but win and get help from the Eagles and they are NFC East champs.

USA Today -- Rank: 27

Outmanned all season, the G-Men were almost unfailingly competitive through November. But they've lost their last three games by 47 points.

ESPN -- Rank: 23

New Year's resolution: Finally get the offensive line right

This was supposed to be Dave Gettleman's top priority -- the hog mollies. Three years later, here we are. The line is only slightly better. Nick Gates looks solid at center, Shane Lemieux and Matt Peart have potential, but Andrew Thomas needs to develop into a high-end left tackle. His rookie year wasn't overly promising. It's about time the Giants get this right. -- Jordan Raanan

NFL.com -- Rank: 25

The Giants can still take the NFC East on Sunday with a win over the Cowboys paired with a Washington loss to the Eagles, but there's a distinct possibility we've already seen the best of New York this season. The Giants were outclassed in a 27-13 loss to the Ravens, the third consecutive defeat for Joe Judge's team. The offense has been the primary culprit for Big Blue's fade: New York's attack hasn't cleared 20 points in a game since the middle of November. Daniel Jones' ankle and hamstring injuries have played a role in that funk -- he's simply not the same player without his ability to make things happen with his legs. Maybe rest him for the playoffs? (I kid … kind of.)

Previous update: New York Giants Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Atlanta Falcons Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Atlanta Falcons rank in terms of average, best and worst:

Average ranking: 21.6 (22nd)
Best ranking: 16th (USA Today)
Worst ranking: 28th (CBS Sports)

Below you will find a Week 17 roundup for the Falcons in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 19

Keanu Neal, S: You could make the case for center Alex Mack, but he's 35. Neal battled injuries in 2018 and 2019, appearing in just four games combined. But he's stayed healthy this season and has played well. A hard-hitting strong safety, Neal will be just 26 at the start of next season.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 28

They played tough against the Chiefs, but they just can't find a way to win close games. It's been a tough season.

USA Today -- Rank: 16

WR Calvin Ridley has been their best player all season, producing (82 catches for 1,322 yards and 9 TDs) at a Julio Jones-type level.

ESPN -- Rank: 25

New Year's resolution: Get the setup right

Atlanta needs a new coach and general manager; because it fired Dan Quinn early, owner Arthur Blank was able to get a jump on potential candidates. The Falcons have shown life under interim coach Raheem Morris, but regardless of whom they hire they need to restore this team's second-half confidence. Atlanta outscored opponents by 67 points in the first half of games, fifth-best in the NFL. However, the Falcons were outscored by 68 points in the second half, the third-worst margin in the league. Atlanta clearly has some pieces in place but there's a reason it went 2-8 in games decided by a touchdown or less. -- John Keim

NFL.com -- Rank: 20

Younghoe Koo missed the 39-yard field goal attempt that ended the hopes of an upset win in Arrowhead on Sunday, but this is not the year to pile on the kicker. Koo has been brilliant all season -- and besides, the game is never on Koo's shoulders if Falcons CB A.J. Terrell comes down with a gift-wrapped interception that directly preceded the Chiefs' go-ahead touchdown in the final minutes. When Kansas City's all-world quarterback gives you an opportunity, you can't let it slip away. Said Raheem Morris: "We talked about Patrick Mahomes potentially throwing you a few, and when he throws them up there in the air, you've gotta come down with them." The Falcons have seven losses in one-possession games.

+ Previous update: Atlanta Falcons Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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New England Patriots Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the New England Patriots rank in terms of average, best and worst:

Average ranking: 20.8 (21st)
Best ranking: 18th (CBS Sports)
Worst ranking: 26th (NFL.com)

Below you will find a Week 17 roundup for the Patriots in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 21

Cam Newton, QB: You could certainly make the case for guard Joe Thuney, but Newton is the more interesting choice. The Patriots' offense has been a mess, and Newton ranks 29th in QBR. He has not played well, but he's also been dealt one of the league's worst supporting casts, and Bill Belichick has raved about his intangibles. Will Newton land a starting job somewhere next season?

CBS Sports -- Rank: 18

The offense is awful right now. They should start Jarrett Stidham in the finale and get on with the planning for next season.

USA Today -- Rank: 19

Bill Belichick had never been swept by Buffalo. How times change ... and it might be time to throw a grenade into the New England roster.

ESPN -- Rank: 20

New Year's resolution: Dedicate more resources to WRs and TEs

For all the talk about quarterback play -- and that's a big issue, no doubt -- it won't matter who is throwing the football if the Patriots don't upgrade their personnel and overall philosophical approach in terms of acquiring/developing wide receivers and tight ends. Over the past two seasons in a post-Gronk world, no team in the NFL has received less from the tight ends in the passing game than New England. It's like a black hole in the offense. -- Mike Reiss

NFL.com -- Rank: 26

Monday night was depressing theater for Patriots fans who aren't used to this kind of thing. The Bills came into Foxborough and laid a 38-9 whipping on the home team, an embarrassing defeat that clinched New England's first losing season since 2000. It's also the first time in 20 years that an AFC East team swept the Pats in their home-and-home. The tables have most definitely turned, and now Bill Belichick is left to ponder what's next. That starts at the quarterback position. Cam Newton struggled yet again before being being replaced by Jarrett Stidham in the third quarter, and it would make sense for Stidham to start the Week 17 finale against the Jets. What used to be playoff time is now evaluation time.

Previous update: New England Patriots Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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San Francisco 49ers Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the San Francisco 49ers rank in terms of average, best and worst:

Average ranking: 20.6 (20th)
Best ranking: 16th (ESPN)
Worst ranking: 25th (CBS Sports)

Below you will find a Week 17 roundup for the 49ers in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 17

Trent Williams, OT: The 49ers face a number of tough free-agent decisions, specifically in their secondary, but Williams will likely have the biggest market of any of their players. San Francisco traded for Williams before the season, and he's started 14 games and played well. At 32, Williams should still have a lot of good football left, and he should be helped by the fact that it's not a great market for teams in need of quality left tackles.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 25

They aren't going to the playoffs, but Kyle Shanahan should be proud of the coaching job he has done this year. It's been outstanding.

USA Today -- Rank: 24

QB C.J. Beathard would rather have his brother back, but Saturday's performance was quite a tribute to his sibling a year after his murder.

ESPN -- Rank: 16

New Year's resolution: Get and stay (relatively) healthy

Forget happiness and success, those will come for the 49ers if they can get the first part of the trifecta squared away. The Niners' injury bad luck this season was among the worst the NFL has ever seen. And while they did their best not to use it as an excuse, they never had much of a chance to defend their NFC crown, as most of their best players spent the season on injured reserve. Even with a lot of difficult decisions awaiting this offseason -- including at quarterback -- this team has enough talent to vault right back into contention if it has vastly improved health in 2021. -- Nick Wagoner

NFL.com -- Rank: 21

The 49ers and Cardinals played for nearly 3.5 hours on Saturday. We estimate roughly two hours of the telecast featured shots of Robert Saleh celebrating excelsior play by his defense in a 20-12 win over Arizona. "Best DC in the league," San Francisco linebacker Fred Warner said afterward. "I love that guy. I know he's going to be a great head coach one day soon." Saleh earned high praise when the Niners reached the Super Bowl last season, but his résumé is even more sterling for what he's done with a defense in 2020 that's been absolutely ravaged by injuries on every level. Saleh has proven his bona fides, and he's telegenic, to boot. This man will get one of the big chairs in January ... book it.

+ Previous update: San Francisco 49ers Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Washington Football Team Week 17 Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Washington Football Team rank in terms of average, best and worst:

Average ranking: 19.4 (19th)
Best ranking: 17th (Multiple)
Worst ranking: 22nd (USA Today)

Below you will find a Week 17 roundup for Washington in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 20

Brandon Scherff, OG: Washington used the franchise tag on Scherff last offseason. He's started 12 games and played well. Scherff has had some injury issues in the past and is 29, but he projects as one of the top available free-agent guards.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 17

Losing at home to the Panthers was not a good look. But if they beat the Eagles on the road, they win the AFC East. They need Alex Smith back to do it.

USA Today -- Rank: 22

They're the only team in the league that hasn't scored on a game-opening drive ... which is (was) only 40% Dwayne Haskins' fault.

ESPN -- Rank: 21

New Year's resolution: Fix the QB position

This was going to be the No. 1 issue before Dwayne Haskins Jr. was released, so his ouster doesn't change anything. Washington has had 30 players start at quarterback since the 1993 season, and it's the No. 1 reason why the franchise can't win consistently. This division is highly winnable; the right quarterback would put Washington in a great position. Alex Smith will be 37 next season, and while he's a terrific story, it's hard to say he can still be an effective starter for 16 games. Washington must explore all avenues -- trades, a free-agent signing or the draft. It's probably ideal to pair a mid-round pick with a veteran -- that will give the team someone who can take advantage of a top defense and a young player to groom. -- John Keim

NFL.com -- Rank: 17

It is Ron Rivera's show in Washington. We've known that for some time, but Rivera's clout in the organization has never been more apparent following the release of quarterback Dwayne Haskins, the 15th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. Dumping a first-round pick after less than two seasons is almost unheard of, but Rivera wasn't in the building when Haskins was drafted, and Haskins didn't do near enough to engender faith or patience from Rivera in their limited time together. Remarkably, this drama all plays out while Washington preps for a Week 17 matchup against the Eagles that could decide the NFC East in their favor. No matter what happens on Sunday night, Rivera will be leading the search for a new quarterback this offseason.

Previous update: Washington Football Team Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft Roundup, 3.0

Throughout the year and leading up to the 2021 NFL draft, we will update our Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft Roundup showing picks for the Dallas Cowboys from several prominent sites and draft analysts.

For a more inclusive lists of mock drafts for the Dallas Cowboys, check out our 2021 Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft Database.

The following are picks in recent mock drafts for the Cowboys:

EDSFootball - Hanson (1/1)

11. Patrick Surtain II, CB, Alabama

Since losing Dak Prescott for the season, the Cowboys are playing their best football heading into Week 17. Two of the team's top four corners -- Jourdan Lewis and Chidobe Awuzie -- are scheduled to become free agents in March. The 2020 SEC Defensive Player of the Year, Surtain II has an NFL pedigree (father was a three-time Pro Bowl CB) with elite size and length (6-2, 202) and will reunite with former teammate Trevon Diggs in this scenario.

San Diego Union Tribune (12/31)

12. Alex Leatherwood, OT, Alabama

Injuries and age are starting to erode what was once the Cowboys greatest strength, it's offensive line. Leatherwood, a former five-star recruit, has shown he can be equally dominant at right guard or left tackle and was recently named a finalist for the Outland Trophy (best interior lineman).

Touchdown Wire - Schofield (12/31)

11. Micah Parsons, LB, Penn State

The Micah Parsons discussion is going to be fascinating this draft cycle. The Penn State linebacker checks every box you want to see from an off-ball linebacker. He has the size, instincts and explosiveness to be an impact player on the second level, and has also shown some pass-rushing ability that makes him an option to stay on the field on third downs in the NFL.

Yet, off-ball linebackers often do not rise to the top of draft boards. The Dallas Cowboys do have a glaring need at the position, as their linebacker unit struggled this year with injuries and inconsistency. Parsons would be a huge boost to a defense that needs an injection of talent.

PFF - Gayle (12/29)

11. Kyle Pitts, TE, Florida

Drafting a tight end early in the first round isn't great from a positional value perspective, but Pitts doesn't just play tight end. The 6-foot-6, 240-pound Florida Gator currently owns one of the highest PFF grades in the country regardless of position (96.2) while playing 261 offensive snaps at inline tight end, 79 at slot receiver and 69 at wide receiver. Not even the Cowboys have enough weapons on offense to warrant passing on Pitts at No. 11.

CBS Sports - Wilson (12/29)

11. Caleb Farley, CB, Virginia Tech

Farley is our CB1 and the Cowboys, who have been hovering around a top-5 selection for much of the last month of the season, are much more comfortable taking a much-needed CB at No. 11.

Pro Football Network - Miller (12/26)

11. Caleb Farley, CB, Virginia Tech

Farley is a former quarterback with only two years at the position. He is a big, long, ball-hawking cornerback who attacks it like a receiver. He is aggressive to a fault. Remind you of Cowboys second-round pick Trevon Diggs? He maybe should, stylistically.

The difference is Farley's athleticism projects him as a legitimate, shutdown, press-man cornerback. He transitions well, explodes in click-and-close, and has all the long speed necessary to supplement his length to carry receivers downfield. He'll take his lumps early on because of his aggression, but once his eyes mature, he has silly potential.

PFF - Renner (12/23)

8. Caleb Farley, CB, Virginia Tech

Of all the top cornerbacks in the draft, I'm not sure anyone will be able to match Farley physically. At 6-foot-2, 207 pounds, Farley has reportedly run in the 4.3s, and he's had all fall to get his body in shape for the combine. That would be one thing if it hadn't shown up on the football field yet, but last year he allowed a passer rating of only 26.8 in his coverage.

Bleacher Report - Miller (12/22)

8. Kyle Pitts, TE, Florida

Tight end isn't the Cowboys' biggest need, but there isn't an offensive tackle or pass-rusher of value available, so it would be about taking the best player available. Pitts is a mismatch for defenses with his size, catch radius and sneaky route running. Pair him with the trio at receiver, and defenses will have no answer.

Previous update: Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft Roundup 2.0

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Chicago Bears Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Chicago Bears rank in terms of average, best and worst:

Average ranking: 14.6 (15th)
Best ranking: 13th (USA Today)
Worst ranking: 15th (Multiple)

Below you will find a Week 17 roundup for the Bears in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 15

Allen Robinson, WR: This is an easy one. Robinson ranks ninth league-wide with 1,213 receiving yards, despite having to deal with inconsistent quarterback play. He's a high-volume No. 1 receiver who could put up monstrous numbers if he found the right quarterback and the right scheme. And Robinson will be just 28 at the start of next season.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 15

They need to beat the Packers this week to get into the playoffs. That won't be easy, but they are playing well.

USA Today -- Rank: 13

So if they get into the playoffs, are they going to earmark an extension or franchise tag for unsigned QB Mitch Trubisky?

ESPN -- Rank: 15

New Year's resolution: Commit to the run earlier in the season

The Bears waited too long to commit to second-year running back David Montgomery. Montgomery did not touch the football nearly enough during Chicago's six-game losing streak but has caught fire over the past month. Montgomery became the first Bears running back to score a touchdown in five consecutive games since Neal Anderson in 1991. The former third-round pick out of Iowa State has rushed for 95-plus yards in four of the past five games. There is nothing wrong with Montgomery. The Bears took a long time to realize that. -- Jeff Dickerson

NFL.com -- Rank: 15

Call it a Christmas miracle: The Bears control their own destiny in the NFC playoff race after a 41-17 win over the Jaguars, Chicago's third consecutive victory after a six-game losing streak that seemed to end their season. The Bears have scored 30-plus points in four consecutive games, the first time they've managed that feat since 1965. Stunning stuff, but now a dose of reality: The last three offensive explosions have come against some of the worst defenses in football. Are the Mitchell Trubisky-led Bears a playoff contender worth respecting ... or is this the 5-1 start all over again, a mirage that gives way to a cold truth when the competition improves? Speaking of improved competition, the Packers come to town this Sunday.

Previous update: Chicago Bears Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Saturday, January 2, 2021

Cleveland Browns Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Cleveland Browns rank in terms of average, best and worst:

Average ranking: 10.6 (T-9th)
Best ranking: 9th (NFL.com)
Worst ranking: 13th (The Athletic)

Below you will find a Week 17 roundup for the Browns in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 13

Olivier Vernon, edge: The Browns have most of their core pieces under contract for next season. It feels like Vernon has been in the league for 20 years, but he's still just 30. After a slow start, Vernon has come on and has eight sacks and 15 quarterback hits while playing 74 percent of the Browns' snaps. He could appeal to teams that are in the market for a veteran pass rusher.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 11

The COVID losses of their receiving group really impacted their offense against the Jets. Now they need a victory against the Steelers to assure that they are in the playoffs.

USA Today -- Rank: 10

Pretty mystifying why a team built to run the ball -- and without its top receivers -- would throw it 53 times ... against the Jets.

ESPN -- Rank: 10

New Year's resolution: Improve the defense

This past offseason, the Browns focused on solidifying their offense and better supporting QB Baker Mayfield. They accomplished that, signing TE Austin Hooper and RT Jack Conklin before drafting LT Jedrick Wills Jr. in the first round. Now, Cleveland needs to turn toward the other side of the ball for a defense that ranks just 20th in efficiency, despite featuring star pass-rusher Myles Garrett. The Browns need help at every level, but especially in the secondary. -- Jake Trotter

NFL.com -- Rank: 9

All the Browns needed to do to end the longest postseason drought in the NFL was beat the 1-13 Jets on Sunday. They failed in that task, and now they face the prospect of missing the playoffs entirely if things don't go their way in Week 17. Baker Mayfield fumbled three times in the loss, the final miscue coming on the game-deciding fourth-and-short QB sneak deep in Jets territory. After the game, Mayfield took the blame for the loss on a day Cleveland was without its top four wide receivers due to COVID-19 protocols. A tough situation, no doubt, but there won't be any excuses if Cleveland can't beat a Steelers team that could be resting its starters in the regular-season finale. The Browns have made too much progress to see this season end with the bitter disappointment of another dark January.

+ Previous update: Cleveland Browns Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Los Angeles Chargers Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Los Angeles Chargers rank in terms of average, best and worst:

Average ranking: 19.2 (18th)
Best ranking: 16th (NFL.com)
Worst ranking: 22nd (The Athletic)

Below you will find a Week 17 roundup for the Chargers in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 22

Hunter Henry, TE: The Chargers used the franchise tag on Henry last offseason. He's been solid but unspectacular. Henry ranks ninth among tight ends with 613 receiving yards. He's averaged 10.2 yards per reception and scored four touchdowns. At 26, Henry will appeal to teams in the market for a young, starting-caliber tight end.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 19

They finally found a way to win a close game. Now the question is whether Anthony Lynn will be back.

USA Today -- Rank: 20

Flawed as they are, does it make sense to dismantle a coaching staff that has done such a nice job launching QB Justin Herbert's career?

ESPN -- Rank: 19

New Year's resolution: Figure out how to finish

Sixteen one-possession losses in two seasons is way too many. It's up to Chargers to find the fierceness to finish the close games with Ws instead of Ls, to keep leads instead of squandering them. Is it a tough O-lineman, a reliable kicker, a tough D-lineman? Whatever it is, do something to help franchise quarterback Justin Herbert. Herbert has led them to three consecutive winning drives in as many weeks in December, but the Chargers need to carry that over to 2021. -- Shelley Smith

NFL.com -- Rank: 16

Everyone loves a nice kicker redemption tale. Michael Badgley has missed more kicks than anyone in football this season, but the "Money Badger" was perfect on all four of his field-goal attempts on Sunday, including the go-ahead 37-yarder in the final minute of a 19-16 win over the Broncos. The Chargers did more than win their third straight game -- they made history. Justin Herbert bumped Baker Mayfield out of the record books with his 28th touchdown pass of the season, the most ever by a rookie quarterback. Herbert represents hope in Los Angeles. It might not be long before he's the biggest star in town.

Previous update: Los Angeles Chargers Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Minnesota Vikings Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Throughout the 2020 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Minnesota Vikings rank in terms of average, best and worst:

Average ranking: 18.6 (17th)
Best ranking: 16th (The Athletic)
Worst ranking: 23rd (NFL.com)

Below you will find a Week 17 roundup for the Vikings in our consensus 2020 NFL Power Rankings.

The Athletic -- Rank: 16

Anthony Harris, S: The franchise tag did him no favors. Harris was a free agent last offseason, but the Vikings tagged him and he hasn't played as well. Now, at 29, he'll enter free agency a year older. Harris is at his best when he can be a ball-hawking free safety.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 20

The defense is putrid, which has to anger Mike Zimmer, who made his bones as a defensive coach. That showing at New Orleans was embarrassing.

USA Today -- Rank: 17

Kinda classic Kirk Cousins, who's thrown a career-best 32 TDs ... which will basically amount to nothing. Defense needs to show up in 2021.

ESPN -- Rank: 17

New Year's resolution: Commit to using star receivers

The Vikings can absolutely be a run-first team if they want to continue to carry that philosophy into 2021. It'd probably help if they were less predictable, like running less on second down, and one way to execute that is by prioritizing an uptick in usage for Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen. Minnesota has two star wideouts who should each be nearing double-digit targets every game and relied on in critical situations, such as two-minute drives and helping the team get back into contention when playing from behind. -- Courtney Cronin

NFL.com -- Rank: 23

A lost season hit its nadir in a spotlight game on Christmas Day. The Vikings surrendered 52 points and six touchdowns to Alvin Kamara in a blowout loss that officially eliminated Minnesota from postseason contention. After the game, Mike Zimmer chose not to mince words: "Yeah, this is a bad defense," Zimmer said. "Worst one I've ever had." The 52 points were the most allowed by the Vikings since 1963, while the 583 total yards by the Saints represented the most yielded to any opponent in the history of the franchise. You can probably guess where the Vikes will be putting their focus this offseason.

Previous update: Minnesota Vikings Week 16 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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Sunday, January 3, 2021

Jacksonville Jaguars Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

New York Jets Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Detroit Lions Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Houston Texans Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Philadelphia Eagles Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Denver Broncos Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

New York Giants Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Atlanta Falcons Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

New England Patriots Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

San Francisco 49ers Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Washington Football Team Week 17 Power Rankings Roundup

Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft Roundup, 3.0

Chicago Bears Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Saturday, January 2, 2021

Cleveland Browns Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Los Angeles Chargers Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

Minnesota Vikings Week 17 NFL Power Rankings Roundup

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