NFL Power Rankings: Week 17 - Who's on Top as Playoffs Approach?

As the regular season inches toward its thrilling conclusion, the NFL power rankings are heating up! Here’s a look at the top teams in Week 17 of the 2024 season:

1. Kansas City Chiefs (14-1) - Last week’s rank: No. 3

The Chiefs have solidified their place at the top with an unyielding performance. They are on a mission to return to the Super Bowl!

2. Buffalo Bills (12-3) - Last week’s rank: No. 2

The Bills have shown resilience, but the burning question remains: can their defense withstand the playoff pressure?

3. Minnesota Vikings (13-2) - Last week’s rank: No. 4

Often flying under the radar, the Vikings are one of the league's most underrated teams despite boasting an impressive record.

4. Detroit Lions (13-2) - Last week’s rank: No. 5

The Lions responded emphatically against the Bears, setting the stage for a high-stakes clash against the Vikings in Week 18!

5. Philadelphia Eagles (12-3) - Last week’s rank: No. 1

With Jalen Hurts back in the lineup, the Eagles are eager to reclaim their dominant form before the playoffs kick off.

6. Green Bay Packers (11-4) - Last week’s rank: No. 6

The Packers may just have what it takes to win it all, given their current form and experience.

7. Baltimore Ravens (10-5) - Last week’s rank: No. 7

A rematch with the Chiefs seems inevitable as the Ravens gear up for a deep playoff run.

8. Washington Commanders (10-5) - Last week’s rank: No. 10

Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has burst onto the scene, looking to continue his momentum.

9. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-5) - Last week’s rank: No. 8

The Steelers are battling injuries and inconsistency as they prepare for a potential playoff spot.

10. Los Angeles Chargers (9-6) - Last week’s rank: No. 15

The Chargers have pulled off impressive wins, and it appears that luck is on their side!

11. Los Angeles Rams (9-6) - Last week’s rank: No. 13

Great teams often find ways to win even when they are outplayed, and the Rams are proving just that.

12. Denver Broncos (9-6) - Last week’s rank: No. 9

As they aim for the playoffs, the Broncos could be a formidable opponent; if they qualify, of course.

13. Houston Texans (9-6) - Last week’s rank: No. 12

The Texans are still hunting for that defining win to elevate their playoff prospects.

14. Atlanta Falcons (8-7) - Last week’s rank: No. 18

Michael Penix Jr. continues to impress; the upcoming game against the Commanders will be crucial.

15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-7) - Last week’s rank: No. 11

The Buccaneers are struggling with consistency; just when it seems they’ve found a rhythm, chaos ensues.

16. Cincinnati Bengals (7-8) - Last week’s rank: No. 17

If they can just secure a playoff spot, the Bengals have the talent to make a run.

17. Seattle Seahawks (8-7) - Last week’s rank: No. 14

Despite a rough patch, the Seahawks remain in the hunt as they continue their playoff chase.

18. Dallas Cowboys (7-8) - Last week’s rank: No. 21

The Cowboys have seemingly saved coach Mike McCarthy’s job for now, but can they turn their season around?

19. Indianapolis Colts (7-8) - Last week’s rank: No. 19

Unfortunately, a one-dimensional offense spells trouble for the Colts in the playoffs.

20. Miami Dolphins (7-8) - Last week’s rank: No. 22

They still have a glimmer of hope for the playoffs, but it may only result in an early exit.

21. Arizona Cardinals (7-8) - Last week’s rank: No. 16

The Cardinals' collapse as the stakes rose has raised questions about their direction.

22. San Francisco 49ers (6-9) - Last week’s rank: No. 20

A reset is desperately needed in San Francisco as they struggle to find their footing.

23. New Orleans Saints (5-10) - Last week’s rank: No. 23

Rizzi’s coaching has come under fire, and fans are eager for change.

24. Chicago Bears (4-11) - Last week’s rank: No. 24

The Bears’ season spiraled after a crucial misplay on a Hail Mary attempt.

25. New York Jets (4-11) - Last week’s rank: No. 25

Misery loves company, and the Jets' woes are well documented in Madden and on the field.

26. Carolina Panthers (4-11) - Last week’s rank: No. 26

The Panthers are at a crossroads; is this growth or just another false dawn?

27. Las Vegas Raiders (3-12) - Last week’s rank: No. 31

Winning against the Jaguars won't change their fortunes much at this point.

28. Cleveland Browns (3-12) - Last week’s rank: No. 27

The “soft tank” might be on course, but fans are losing patience.

29. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-12) - Last week’s rank: No. 28

The memories of previous playoff triumphs feel like a distant dream now.

30. New England Patriots (3-12) - Last week’s rank: No. 29

The future of head coach Jerod Mayo hangs in the balance as they gear up for next season.

31. Tennessee Titans (3-12) - Last week’s rank: No. 30

Brian Callahan’s job security is also at risk; changes are looming.

32. New York Giants (2-13) - Last week’s rank: No. 32

With the franchise in disarray, the 101st season might not even be in reach!

Stay tuned as we continue to follow the rollercoaster that is the NFL and the countdown to the playoffs! Which team will rise to glory and which will fade into oblivion?