Some NFL seasons see a consistent top-tier in the rankings, while others throw in a few surprises. This year, for example, has been anything but predictable.
The Broncos have now become the seventh team to lead the Post’s NFL Power Rankings during the first 16 weeks, joining the ranks of teams like the Patriots and Rams.
But the landscape could shift in the final three weeks, as three out of their six predecessors might miss the playoffs if results don’t favor them.
Week 15 brought some thrilling upsets, with six games seeing teams overcome deficits of 10 points—tying an NFL record—and a couple of major injuries, notably to Patrick Mahomes and Micah Parsons.
Looking ahead, it’s hard to say what this week has in store, but the Broncos should be wary—being at the top can feel like a weighty crown.
Here’s how the rankings shape up for week 16:
1. Broncos 12-2 (2)
Bo Nix matched his best with four touchdown passes, leading the Broncos to a playoff spot with a 34-26 victory over the Packers. Four receivers made it to the end zone, but Courtland Sutton was the standout with 113 yards on seven catches. The defense shone in the second half, highlighted by key interceptions from Riley Moss and Patrick Surtain II.
2. Rams 11-3 (3)
Matthew Stafford had a solid game against his old team, throwing for two touchdowns as the Rams won 41-34 against the Lions. Kyren Williams added two touchdowns, and the Rams flipped the score from a 24-14 deficit to secure the win and a playoff berth.
3. Bills 10-4 (7)
Despite losing a 21-point lead to the Patriots, the Bills managed to pull off a 35-31 victory with Josh Allen tossing three touchdown passes and James Cook contributing three touchdowns himself. This marked the third time this season the Bills came back from a double-digit deficit, securing their seventh consecutive season of 10 or more wins.
4. Patriots 11-3 (1)
Even with a 10-game winning streak, the Patriots couldn’t escape a collapse against the Bills, losing a 21-0 lead despite four rushing touchdowns. Drake Maye had two rushing touchdowns but was intercepted when they held a slim lead.
5. Seahawks 11-3 (5)
Jason Myers set a franchise record with his sixth field goal, sealing an 18-16 victory over the Colts. Philip Rivers, at 44, managed to score all points for his team, while Sam Darnold threw for 271 yards, leading to the 13th game-winning drive of his career.
6. Bears 10-4 (6)
It was freezing at Soldier Field, but that didn’t put a damper on Caleb Williams and DJ Moore’s performance against the Browns, leading to a 31-3 win. D’Andre Swift made significant contributions with 98 yards and two touchdowns, marking their first 10-win season since 2018.
7. Packers 9-4-1 (4)
The Packers suffered their first loss by more than three points and lost Micah Parsons for the season due to a torn ACL. They only managed three points on their last six possessions with multiple turnovers compounding their struggles.
8. 49ers 10-4 (8)
With no bye-week fatigue, the 49ers dominated the Titans in a 37-24 game, driven by Brock Purdy’s three touchdown passes, including two to Jauan Jennings. They converted nearly every critical third down opportunity.
9. Jaguars 10-4 (9)
Trevor Lawrence put on an incredible performance with six total touchdowns in a 48-20 win against the Jets, scoring touchdowns on their first three possessions—a feat they hadn’t accomplished since 1998.
10. Chargers 10-4 (10)
Derwin James sealed the game with an interception late in the game, leading the Chargers to a tight 16-13 victory against the Chiefs. Justin Herbert threw for 210 yards, with a crucial touchdown reception to KeAndre Lambert-Smith.
11. Texans 9-5 (12)
12. Eagles 9-5 (13)
13. Lions 8-6 (11)
14. Steelers 8-6 (14)
15. Ravens 7-7 (21)
16. Colts 8-6 (15)
17. Panthers 7-7 (16)
18. Buccaneers 7-7 (17)
19. Vikings 6-8 (22)
20. Dolphins 6-8 (20)
21. Cowboys 6-7-1 (18)
22. Chiefs 6-8 (19)
23. Falcons 5-9 (24)
24. Saints 4-10 (25)
25. Bengals 4-10 (23)
26. Commanders 4-10 (28)
27. Jets 3-11 (26)
The Jets found themselves in a familiar position, falling behind early against the Jaguars for the second week running. Breece Hall’s fourth-down failure highlighted the struggles of rookie quarterback Brady Cook in his debut. There was even a penalty that ruled out a touchdown from Isiah Williams’ punt return.
28. Cardinals 3-11 (27)
29. Titans 2-12 (29)
30. Browns 3-11 (30)
31. Giants 2-12 (31)
The Giants continue to struggle, now facing their eighth straight loss. Jackson Dart had an interception, and a couple of missed field goals from Younghoe Koo didn’t help their cause during a snowy home game, ending 29-21. Interim coach Mike Kafka is still searching for a win.
