NFL Week 1 Power Rankings: Chiefs Stumble Big as Eagles Pick Up Right Where They Left Off

The opening salvo of the 2025 NFL season was a mixed bag. It was a thrilling high for some teams and disappointing setbacks for others. The fans and analysts had been eagerly waiting to see how the last season’s Super Bowl matchup teams would start this season. While the Eagles rose up and delivered on expectations, the Chiefs fell flat on their face, leaving a tougher road ahead. Then there’s the curious case of Micah Parsons in Green Bay, breaking a near-century-old Packers jersey taboo. Feels like the prologue of a Netflix doc titled “The Lambeau Curse.” 

With all that drama setting the stage, let’s dive into the Week 1 power rankings, breaking down who soared, who stumbled and who’s left with plenty to prove as the season unfolds.

1. Buffalo Bills (1-0)

Week 1 Result: 41-40 home win over Baltimore.

Josh Allen was breathtaking against the Ravens. He compensated for a defense that couldn’t hold down Baltimore’s rush and allowed quick scores. He finished 33-of-46 for 394 yards with two passing and two rushing touchdowns. The defense stiffened enough to force a three-and-out, allowing Buffalo to seal the game on a last-second field goal in a 41-40 thriller.

The Bills Mafia earns the top spot due to their electrifying performance, all thanks to Allen. Their opponent, the Ravens, is a tough, playoff-caliber team known for explosiveness, making this victory a strong early-season statement. In Week 2, the Bills face the Jets at MetLife, led by Justin Fields and a dynamic rushing attack. To stay on top, Buffalo must tighten its run defense and execute better in clutch moments to contain Fields’ dual-threat ability and the Jets’ balanced offense.

2. Philadelphia Eagles (1-0)

Week 1 Result: 24-20 home win over Dallas.

Super Bowl MVP Jalen Hurts continued his strong performance from last season, taking large rushing lanes and extending his NFL record to 16 games with multiple rushing touchdowns. Against Dallas in the second-most-viewed NFL season kickoff in history, the Eagles proved resilient. The game was delayed by lightning and marred by the pre-snap ejection of defensive tackle Jalen Carter. The Birds justify their ranking as they finished strong against a tough division rival.

But one of the major issues that popped up during the game was the secondary coverage. It remains uncertain, particularly opposite Quinyon Mitchell, as Adoree’ Jackson was flagged for a pass interference and missed two tackles in coverage. So, to succeed at the Chiefs’ home turf in Week 2, Philadelphia must tighten its defense to avoid costly mistakes and improve offensive consistency to keep pace with Kansas City’s explosive attack.

3. Baltimore Ravens (0-1)

Week 1 Result: 41-40 road loss to Buffalo.

The Ravens hold the third spot despite suffering another crushing late defeat despite the best efforts of quarterback Lamar Jackson. Head coach John Harbaugh’s team has blown 17 fourth-quarter leads, the most for any coach since 1991. The final four minutes turned their fates. Baltimore became the first team since 2017 to blow a 15-point lead and lose a game in the final four minutes. Running back Derrick Henry’s crucial fumble let the Bills back in the game, and Harbaugh faced scrutiny for not going for it on fourth-and-short opportunities when Henry was otherwise unstoppable throughout.

Yet, wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins dazzled in his team debut, snagging a remarkable one-handed 29-yard touchdown that is an early candidate for NFL play of the year. It was his fourth one-handed TD catch, tying the NFL record with Courtland Sutton and Garrett Wilson. In Week 2, the Ravens host a Browns team with kicking struggles but a versatile backfield led by emerging rookie Dylan Sampson, who emerged as the lead running back for at least Week 1, earning 20 carries to seven for Jerome Ford.

To avoid another collapse, Purple Pain must eliminate turnovers and stay focused late to seize control at home.

4. Kansas City Chiefs (0-1)

Week 1 Result: 27-21 loss vs. Los Angeles Chargers in Brazil.

The Chiefs sit at fourth after a tough Week 1 loss to the Chargers. Without Rashee Rice (facing suspension), Jalen Royals (injured knee), and Xavier Worthy (injured shoulder), Patrick Mahomes was left all alone. The quarterback improvised but ultimately fell 27-21 to the Chargers in a rare stumble. The Chiefs’ defense couldn’t contain Chargers QB Justin Herbert, who tormented them after halftime with two touchdown passes.

Despite shedding weight and working on his conditioning, Travis Kelce just couldn’t create the quick-impact plays he’s known for and his clunky route running led to the collision that took Worthy out of the gate early. The Chiefs’ loss ended an incredible streak of 17 straight wins in one-score games, an NFL record. Next up is a Super Bowl rematch as the Chiefs host the Eagles in 4:25 pm EST start. The Chiefs must devise a way to contain dynamic QB Jalen Hurts (221 passing yards and 2 pass TD, 72 rushing yards and a rush TD to earn MVP honors in Super Bowl LIX) and running back Saquon Barkley (97 all-purpose yards in Super Bowl LIX), while overcoming key offensive injuries to avoid consecutive losses.

5. Washington Commanders (1-0)

Week 1 Result: 21-6 home win over New York Giants.

After finishing last season near the bottom (30th) against the run, the Commanders’ front looked like a different unit. The Commanders earn their spot after a strong defensive showing as they held the New York Giants to just 38 yards on 15 carries. Defensive back Javon Kinlaw earned Pro Football Focus’ highest defensive grade on the team for Week 1 and defensive tackle Daron Payne was a disruptive force throughout with a sack and four tackles. And the pass rush harassed Giants QB Russell Wilson into a bad completion rate and PFF’s fourth-lowest overall QB rating for Week 1.

Despite the stellar effort, there are plenty of areas to improve. Quarterback Jayden Daniels showed signs of regression on the accuracy front. On multiple occasions, he threw behind his target, explaining his modest 3-of-8 success rate on crucial third downs.

Up next are the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on the national stage of Thursday Night Football. They’ll see a team bolstered by the addition of pass rusher Micah Parsons and a sharp Week 1 start from QB Jordan Love. The Commanders last played the Packers in 2022, taking a 23-21 home win.

6. Green Bay Packers (1-0)

Week 1 Result: 27-13 home win over Detroit.

Micah Parsons’ debut for Green Bay was subtle but significant. While he didn’t notch a sack until the fourth quarter, he forced hurried throws earlier that led to a key interception by teammate Evan Williams. He even helped collapse the pocket, which resulted in a crucial Lukas Van Ness’ third-quarter sack. Jordan Love flipped doubts, completing 5-of-7 passes with two long touchdowns in the first half after a thumb injury absence.

A key moment came in the second quarter when a 48-yard deep pass to Romeo Doubs set up a 19-yard touchdown pass to Jayden Reed. Facing the Commanders next, Green Bay must maintain that defensive intensity and capitalize on offensive opportunities to overcome a defense that showed promise but still poses challenges.

7. Los Angeles Chargers (1-0)

Week 1 Result: 27-21 win vs. Kansas City in Brazil.

The Chargers announced themselves as serious contenders to take the AFC West crown with a thrilling 27-21 victory over the Chiefs. The Bolts’ offense exploded in the second half as Justin Herbert completed 13 of 16 passes for 147 yards and two touchdowns, carrying LA to a statement-making victory over the Chiefs. Quentin Johnston, often maligned, made a major statement with five catches for 79 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing why he was a first-round pick.

However, Mekhi Becton battled exhaustion and illness but remained on the field. Facing the Las Vegas Raiders next, the Bolts must sustain their offensive momentum while overcoming injury challenges to contend with their defense that showed resilience late in their opener by shutting out New England in the second half.

8. Los Angeles Rams (1-0)

Week 1 Result: 14-9 home win over Houston.

Matthew Stafford crossed a historic milestone with 60,000 passing yards, tying Atlanta Falcons legend Matt Ryan for the second fastest to ever achieve the feat. Wide receiver Puka Nacua carried the offense with 10 catches for 130 yards despite a concussion scare and needing stitches. The Rams’ offense, however, scored just 14 points, highlighting struggles that must be solved quickly to face the Titans, who brought relentless pressure in Week 1.

9. Detroit Lions (0-1)

Week 1 result: 27-13 road loss to Green Bay.

Detroit’s offense fell flat, failing to score a touchdown through three quarters for the first time since 2023. Rookie Isaac TeSlaa was the lone bright spot with a late 13-yard TD catch late in the game. Injuries loom large, especially with cornerback Terrion Arnold leaving the Week 1 tilt early with a groin injury. This continues a trend that saw 21 players hit injured reserve last December, the most in the NFL. Quarterback Jared Goff had the second-lowest PFF rating in the league for Week 1 (45.5), with only Broncos second-year starter Bo Nix looking worse. Facing the Chicago Bears next at Ford Field, Detroit must improve offensive execution to capitalize on Chicago’s penalty-prone and inconsistent defense, which showed flashes but faltered in critical moments.

10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-0)

Week 1 Result: 23-20 road win over Atlanta.

Quarterback Baker Mayfield’s performance wasn’t polished, but he made plays with his legs, throwing two touchdowns and leading a late two-minute scoring drive. Tampa Bay’s offense struggled early, hindered by a reconfigured line and ineffective run game. Defensively, head coach Todd Bowles’ aggressive scheme came with risks, exemplified by linebacker SirVocea Dennis being beaten for a critical 50-yard touchdown. But defensive stops and a clutch late-game touchdown from rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka helped the Bucs eek out a win. To keep winning in Week 2, the Bucs need to refine their run game and establish a more balanced attack that doesn’t rely solely on Mayfield.

11. Cincinnati Bengals (1-0)

Week 1 Result: 17-16 road win over Cleveland.

It wasn’t pretty, but when the Bengals have been 2-6 in September over the last two years, getting an early win any which way possible – especially against a division foe – is crucial.

Cincinnati’s offense sputtered after a strong opening drive against the Browns. Quarterback Joe Burrow threw for only 103 yards in the game, the fourth-lowest total of his career. He lead a Bengals offense that managed just 141 total yards, and just seven yards in the second half.

Top weapons Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins saw limited targets (5 and 4, respectively), forcing reliance on tight ends and running backs. Burrow recognized the need to diversify to justify their $161 million investment in Chase.

Star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson recorded eight pressures and a sack in the win, earning an 88.1 grade from PFF. Their ability to win with varied offensive approaches is promising, but they need to activate their star receiving weapons more to meet championship expectations and avoid being stifled by physical defenses like the Jaguars’.

12. Pittsburgh Steelers (1-0)

Week 1 Result: 34-32 road win over New York Jets.

Aaron Rodgers impressed in his Steelers debut, tossing four touchdown passes in the come-from-behind win. He rolled back the years in an impressive display that bailed out his team’s defense, which gave up 182 yards and three touchdowns on the ground. An injury to first-round defensive lineman Derrick Harmon was felt, but the issues extended beyond missing personnel. Wide receiver Ben Skowronek, aka “Dirtbag,” emerged as a key playmaker, snagging Rodgers’ first TD pass and recovering a fumble on kickoff coverage to help swing momentum.

Rodgers got his revenge game out of the way with a win and now it’s time for wide receiver DK Metcalf’s turn. The Seattle Seahawks’ visit to the Steel City will allow the Steelers a chance to go 2-0 with another strong QB display from Rodgers, but they will need to shore up their D-Line.

13. San Francisco 49ers (1-0)

Week 1 Result: 17-13 road win at Seattle.

Despite losing star tight end George Kittle and LT Trent Williams to injuries, the 49ers pulled out a tight 17-13 win. Brock Purdy’s heroics led the comeback, but veteran kicker Jake Moody’s poor outing raised alarms. He missed two potential game-winning kicks. Moody became the first Niners kicker since 2006 to miss two field goals from inside 40 yards in a single game. The 49ers must navigate key injuries to Kittle, Williams, and Fred Warner while fixing their inconsistent kicking. Their young players showed promise, but sustained health will be vital against the Saints.

14. Minnesota Vikings (1-0)

Week 1 Result: 27-24 road win at Chicago.

J.J. McCarthy made his mark in NFL history. The first QB to throw for three fourth-quarter touchdowns in a debut, joining Steve Young in overcoming double-digit deficits. The feat earned him NFC Player of the Week honors. With just 48 passing yards in the first half, rookie Jordan Mason’s tough running fueled the Vikings’ comeback. After only 14 yards before halftime, Mason powered Minnesota on 68 yards during two key touchdown drives that put the team ahead for good. But they must improve first-half production and third-down conversions to sustain success against the Falcons.

15. Denver Broncos (1-0)

Week 1 Result: 20-12 home win over Tennessee.

Head coach Sean Payton’s promise of a better run game needs more time. Denver’s offense sputtered through turnovers and penalties until a late surge pushed them ahead 20-12 against Tennessee. Bo Nix’s struggles, two interceptions and a lost fumble, highlight durability concerns. Though the Broncos’ defense held strong, its ability to overcome short fields created by the offense will be tested again against the Colts this Sunday.

16. Dallas Cowboys (0-1)

Week 1 Result: 24-20 loss at Philadelphia.

Despite losing a close game to Philadelphia, Dallas flashed offensive promise. The young offensive line surprised, while the defense tightened after conceding 123 rushing yards in the first half. Uncharacteristic drops from CeeDee Lamb and a costly Miles Sanders fumble near the red zone swung momentum.

Sanders gave the Cowboys hope in the third quarter with a 49-yard run, his longest since 2020. But on his very next carry, he fumbled. After that, the Cowboys failed to reach Eagles’ territory on their next three possessions. The Cowboys need to shake off mistakes quickly for a must-win Week 2 home opener against the Giants, which shouldn’t be too difficult.

17. New York Jets (0-1)

Week 1 Result: 34-32 home loss to Pittsburgh.

The Jets replayed last year’s script with late-game meltdowns. They lost two fourth-quarter leads against Pittsburgh despite Justin Fields’ career-class rushing and an improved pocket presence. Fields completed 16 of 22 passes, including a tight-window touchdown, showing potential growth. However, penalties and defensive breakdowns led to costly defeats that cast early questions about their trajectory. And if they don’t fix it, well, there won’t be much to say about their loss against the Bills.

18. Atlanta Falcons (0-1)

Week 1 Result: 23-20 home loss against Tampa Bay.

The Falcons’ offense looked promising early but fell apart late. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. showed flashes with scrambles and one rushing touchdown, but lacked consistency in his deep throws. He scrambled for a crucial first down at the 1-yard line late in the fourth. Then, with 2:23 left, he broke free for a 4-yard touchdown run that put the Falcons ahead. Atlanta will need more of that clutch running from him in tight games this season.

The loss of right tackle Kaleb McGary to a season-ending leg injury adds pressure on an already volatile offense. To challenge the host Vikings on Sunday Night Football in Week 2, Atlanta must shore up their offensive line play and rely more on Penix Jr.’s improvisational ability in close games.

19. Houston Texans (0-1)

Week 1 Result: 14-9 loss to Los Angeles Rams.

Houston’s offense showed no signs of improvement despite offseason changes. Quarternback C.J. Stroud was sacked three times and pressured on 41 percent of dropbacks, which limited his effectiveness. Pro Bowl receiver Nico Collins was underutilized with just three catches, forcing the offense to rely on others amid scoring droughts. As they host the Bucs in Week 2, the Texans must protect Stroud more effectively to reduce sacks and pressures. And fixing their second-half scoring drought will be key to sustaining drives and challenging the Bucs’ defense.

20. Las Vegas Raiders (1-0)

Week 1 Result: 20-13 road win at New England.

The Raiders’ defense stifled New England’s high-flying offense in the second half, shutting out the Pats after halftime. Geno Smith’s first drive ended in a 26-yard touchdown to wide receiver Tre Tucker, and he distributed the ball effectively throughout. Tight end Brock Bowers and receiver Jakobi Meyers hauled in big receptions, finishing with 103 yards and 93 yards receiving, respectively. It signaled a balanced Raiders attack. The ability to make halftime adjustments bodes well as tougher tests loom. In week 2, to defeat the Bolts, Las Vegas must build on its defensive adjustments and maintain offensive consistency against a team hungry to prove its upset was no fluke.

21. Chicago Bears (0-1)

Week 1 Result: 27-24 home loss to Minnesota.

Head coach Ben Johnson’s offense started well, with quarterback Caleb Williams throwing 10 straight completions early. But the offense died down, and penalties (12 flags for 127 yards) killed any rhythm. They even racked up four false starts in the first half, showcasing the pre-snap penalties that have haunted them throughout training camp. Two defensive pass interference calls also gave Minnesota scoring chances, exposing a discipline problem with potential season-long implications. Chicago needs more consistent offensive production and discipline to challenge the Lions, who possess a stouter defense and better overall experience heading into the NFC North clash.

22. Seattle Seahawks (0-1)

Week 1 Result: 17-13 home loss against San Francisco.

The defense carried the Seahawks’ ship despite a weak offensive showing. Mike Macdonald’s unit bent but didn’t break, forcing turnovers and setting up scoring chances. Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet competed for snaps (20-29). Charbonnet got more work and scored the team’s lone touchdown. Sam Darnold’s costly late fumble encapsulated the offense’s woes. The Seahawks must fix their weak rushing attack and inconsistent offense while relying less on defense. Better cohesion and ball protection will be key against the Steelers this week.

23. New England Patriots (0-1)

Week 1 Result: 20-13 home loss to Las Vegas.

Drake Maye’s accuracy issues persisted in the season-opening loss. He finished 30-of-46 for 287 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Raiders quarterback Geno Smith outplayed him with key throws. The Patriots led 10-7 at halftime and got the second-half kickoff. Maye was hurried on a pass and threw a costly interception. The Raiders turned the pick into a touchdown and took control from there. Coach Mike Vrabel questioned the fourth-down punt decision that sealed their fate. The Patriots will have to shore up fundamentals fast to challenge Miami’s athletic defense on the road in Week 2.

24. Arizona Cardinals (1-0)

Week 1 Result: 20-13 road win at New Orleans.

Arizona’s Week 1 offered bright glimpses amid frustrating inconsistency. Rookie Trey Benson flashed with a 52-yard run and a new career-high 69 yards, boosting an offense hampered by drive-killing sacks and penalties. Marvin Harrison Jr.’s 45-yard catch shone, but four plays gained zero yards, showing room for improvement. If they do not work on it before the next match-up against the Panthers, then they surely can get exploited early in the game.

25. Indianapolis Colts (1-0)

Week 1 Result: 33-8 home win over Miami.

Daniel Jones carved up the Dolphins. He scored three total touchdowns and orchestrated a 33-8 blowout, snapping an 11-year opening week losing streak. Head coach Shane Steichen’s predictions of Jones as a quick-decision quarterback proved prophetic as the reclamation project starter completed 22 of 29 passes for 272 yards and balanced his attack with two goal-line rushing TDs, becoming the first Colts QB with two rushing scores in a season opener.

Just as impressive, their defense woke up with creative blitz packages under defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo. Kenny Moore II, Nick Cross, and Laiatu Latu recorded sacks and an interception. The offense was ranked second, and the defense earned a 10th-place ranking from PFF for their Week 1 showings. To succeed against the visiting Denver Broncos in Week 2, Indianapolis must maintain offensive precision and exploit Denver’s offensive struggles, especially early turnovers and penalties.

26. Jacksonville Jaguars (1-0)

Week 1 Result: 26-10 home win over Carolina.

The Jaguars’ defense, under first-year defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile, looked sharper, with two forced turnovers and two fourth-down stops signaling a positive turn after a disappointing 2024. Safety Eric Murray and cornerback Jourdan Lewis combined for four pass breakups, an interception, and a fumble recovery. Running back Travis Etienne Jr. firmly claimed the lead back role with 143 rushing yards, including a pivotal 71-yard dash that set up a touchdown. So much so that the Jags traded backfield mate Tank Bigsby to the Eagles after Week 1. Questions remain, particularly about their third-down efficiency (7-for-14) and a costly defensive penalty that erased a pick-six. They visit a hungry Cincinnati team anxious to get their offense humming in Week 2.

27. Cleveland Browns (0-1)

Week 1 Result: 17-16 home loss to Cincinnati.

Kicking woes continued as place kicker Andre Szmyt missed a critical extra point and a potential go-ahead 36-yard field goal, directly contributing to a heartbreaking one-point loss. Rookie running back Dylan Sampson stood out, catching all eight targets and handling 20 touches, showing versatility that could be key with other runners sidelined. However, protecting leads and capitalizing on scoring opportunities will be essential as they head to Baltimore to face a Ravens team determined to erase the memories of their own one-point loss last week.

28. New York Giants (0-1)

Week 1 Result: 21-6 road loss to Washington.

Poor offensive line play destroyed Daniel Jones chances last year, and the misery continued to plague new QB Russell Wilson’s chances against Washington. Wilson was under constant pressure, completing only 2 of 12 passes under duress. The Giants’ offense stalled, scoring only six points, leaving the team facing an urgent need to improve or risk another 3-14 season. To compete at Dallas in Week 2, they must protect their quarterback better and find more consistent offensive production beyond relying on wide receiver Malik Nabers.

29. Carolina Panthers (0-1)

Week 1 Result: 26-10 road loss to Jacksonville.

What looked like a promising late-2024 push by quarterback Bryce Young vanished. He threw two interceptions, lost a fumble and looked rattled despite a late touchdown pass. The team’s run defense looks as bad as last season. GM Dan Morgan tried his best to fix the worst run defense in the league, but failed miserably as the Jaguars controlled the game with 200 rushing yards. When preparing to head to Arizona for the upcoming week, Carolina must improve ball security, reduce turnovers and find ways to contain Arizona’s dynamic playmakers while limiting costly penalties and negative plays.

30. Tennessee Titans (0-1)

Week 1 Result: 20-12 road loss at Denver.

New offensive coordinator Brian Callahan stuck with a run-heavy game plan under rookie quarterback Cam Ward. The No. 1 overall draft pick showed poise but must improve throwing under pressure; he was sacked twice late and struggled with timing. The offense favored passing, just 28 to 21 runs, but failed to score in a 20-12 loss. To challenge the visiting Rams in Week 2, Tennessee must protect Ward better and find balance in their run-pass attack to avoid being overwhelmed again by a strong Rams defense.

31. Miami Dolphins (0-1)

Week 1 Result: 33-8 road loss to Indianapolis.

Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and wide receiver Tyreek Hill looked out of sync, highlighting concerns over their chemistry. The two haven’t practiced together since December, according to reports. The Fins struggled with game-changing turnovers. And despite a front seven designed to dominate, the defense faltered against the Colts’ relentless ground attack, surrendering 156 rushing yards in a lopsided defeat. If they do not work on the chemistry between their QB and WR, they are going to face the same result in their home opener against the Patriots in Week 2.

32. New Orleans Saints (0-1)

Week 1 Result: 20-13 home loss to Arizona.

A parade of self-inflicted wounds doomed the Saints. Penalties, poor clock management, and a rare missed kick by Blake Grupe compounded frustrations. Cameron Jordan shone with 1.5 sacks and three pressures. Quarterback Spencer Rattler said the offense must clean itself up after the loss. The Saints need to fix self-inflicted issues and work on their discipline problems, which present clear avenues for exploitation in their Week 2 home matchup against the 49ers.