Week 16 NFL Power Rankings #32–17

Week 15 was a whirlwind of unpredictability. Significant injuries, playoff exits, and a few surprising upsets dramatically altered the landscape of the league. With Kansas City’s unexpected decline and Indianapolis grappling with quarterback issues, the season’s crucial juncture has arrived.

32) e — Las Vegas Raiders (2-12)

The Raiders did more than simply lose to the Eagles; they essentially vanished from the contest. A disheartening 31-0 shutout underscored how distant this team is from being competitive. This is especially apparent on offense, where no strategies functioned effectively, and the outcome was virtually decided by halftime.

31) e — Tennessee Titans (2-12)

Tennessee remained competitive for brief periods, yet the 49ers’ decisive 37-24 victory made it evident: the Titans struggle to keep up when their opponents start racking up touchdowns. Although they possess promising young talent, they currently exhibit a noticeable lag both offensively and defensively.

30) e — New York Giants (2-12)

The Giants had various moments of opportunity against Washington, yet fleeting moments do not translate into victories. Their 29-21 defeat encapsulated their entire season: a handful of encouraging drives followed by critical errors that dramatically shifted momentum.

29) e — New York Jets (3-11)

Jacksonville transformed this matchup into a highlight reel, securing a 48-20 win led by Trevor Lawrence’s five-touchdown performance. The Jets were unable to cover their assignments, failed to make crucial stops, and spent the majority of the game trailing a score that continued to widen.

28) e — Cleveland Browns (3-11)

Cleveland ventured into Chicago only to be manhandled. The Bears dominated with a 31-3 victory, utilizing a staunch defense alongside a potent run game, and exploiting careless passing lanes at will. After throwing three interceptions, the Browns merely sought to survive until the final whistle.

27) e — Arizona Cardinals (3-11)

The Cardinals displayed some spirited efforts through Trey McBride, yet they could not prevent the Texans from scoring 40 points against them. When a team surrenders significant plays early, including rapid touchdowns and scores from advantageous field positions, they find themselves in an uphill battle for the majority of the contest.

26) e — Cincinnati Bengals (4-10)

The Bengals endured a disheartening 24-0 shutout against Baltimore, which certainly did not stem from mere bad luck. Their inability to protect the football, complete drives, and attack effectively allowed a motivated Ravens defense to dominate as if their season was on the line.

25) e — New Orleans Saints (4-10)

Although New Orleans has been eliminated from playoff contention, their 20-17 comeback victory against Carolina still held significance, showcasing genuine progress. Tyler Shough displayed composure in critical moments, while Chris Olave rose to the occasion when the game tightened, providing the team with a crucial foundation for future development.

24) e — Washington Commanders (4-10)

Washington finally secured a victory, triumphing over the Giants 29-21, which felt akin to a team exhaling in relief. A pivotal punt return touchdown shifted the momentum, and they managed to maintain control of the game until the end, breaking their pattern of late-game collapses observed throughout the season.

23) e — Kansas City Chiefs (6-8)

Kansas City faced a painful conclusion to their 2025 season. They narrowly lost another close game to the Chargers, and things turned even worse when Patrick Mahomes sustained a torn ACL. As a result, the Chiefs have been eliminated from playoff contention, marking their first absence since 2015—a surprising turn for a franchise that has set the standard for excellence over the past decade.

22) e — Atlanta Falcons (5-9)

Though Atlanta has also been eliminated from playoff prospects, they still provided one of the week’s most memorable moments. The Falcons stunned Tampa Bay with a 29-28 victory on a last-second field goal, wherein Kyle Pitts erupted for 166 yards and three touchdowns. Even during a lost season, such victories are cherished.

21) e — Miami Dolphins (6-8)

Miami's playoff hopes were extinguished in Pittsburgh with a 28-15 defeat. Despite a late surge led by Tua and Darren Waller, they found themselves in too deep a hole early on. Looking back, they will realize too many sluggish starts and insufficient complete-game performances contributed to their elimination.

20) e — Minnesota Vikings (6-8)

Although Minnesota triumphed over Dallas 34-26, the victory was bittersweet: they were eliminated regardless. The positive aspect is that J.J. McCarthy demonstrated the qualities of a franchise quarterback once more, accumulating touchdowns and exhibiting confidence. The season may have concluded, but the outlook for the future remains promising.

19) e — Dallas Cowboys (6-7-1)

Dallas put up a strong fight, but ultimately, Minnesota finished stronger, resulting in a 34-26 defeat that diminished their playoff aspirations. The tendency to settle for field goals instead of touchdowns emerged at the most inopportune moments, and in December, such lapses can jeopardize entire seasons.

18) e — Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-7)

This particular loss has the potential to haunt Tampa Bay throughout the month. After leading late in the game, they watched helplessly as Atlanta snatched a 29-28 victory from their grasp. When battling for survival in the playoff race, relinquishing a home game carries devastating consequences—both for their standings and their confidence.

17) e — Indianapolis Colts (8-6)

The Colts still find themselves in the playoff hunt, but the Seahawks’ 18-16 victory felt like another step toward the precipice of elimination. They faltered on a last-second 56-yard field goal, and their challenges have intensified: Daniel Jones is out with a torn Achilles, compelling Indianapolis to rely on 44-year-old Philip Rivers, all while attempting to prevent their season from unraveling.

The lower tier of the league is rapidly thinning. With Miami, Kansas City, and Minnesota now out of contention, every remaining contender is running short on time, as Week 16 will ultimately determine who persists in the race.