Baltimore Ravens enter the 2026 NFL season atop the AFC North rankings
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 7, 2026, 11:01 AM
Last updated Sep 7, 2026

The Baltimore Ravens begin the 2026 season positioned first in the AFC North according to recent power rankings. Head coach Jesse Minter leads the team, which is noted for its roster stability and clear expectations following an encouraging preseason. The Cincinnati Bengals follow in second place, with the organization looking for a bounce-back campaign centered on the health of quarterback Joe Burrow. The Pittsburgh Steelers enter a new era under the direction of Aaron Rodgers and Mike McCarthy, while the Cleveland Browns face a rebuilding phase following the departure of Myles Garrett. The division remains highly competitive with teams looking to challenge Baltimore for the title throughout the upcoming schedule.
- •Baltimore Ravens open the 2026 season as the top-ranked team in the AFC North.
- •Cincinnati Bengals aim to avoid slow starts behind a healthy Joe Burrow.
- •Pittsburgh Steelers debut the partnership of Aaron Rodgers and Mike McCarthy.
- •Cleveland Browns enter the season without Myles Garrett following his recent trade.
- •Jesse Minter leads the Baltimore Ravens into his first season as head coach.
- 11:01 AMYahoo Sports — NFL Power Rankings: Where Ravens land in the AFC North ahead of Week 1
- 11:01 AMYahoo Sports — NFL Power Rankings: Where do Eagles land in NFC East ahead of Week 1
"There are whispers about a Bengals resurgence, but the Ravens seem intent on returning to the AFC North's penthouse.
"The Cowboys and Giants have improved, but the Eagles remain the favorites to win the NFC East.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 7, 2026, 11:01 AMNFL Power Rankings: Where Ravens land in the AFC North ahead of Week 1
There are whispers about a Bengals resurgence, but the Ravens seem intent on returning to the AFC North's penthouse.
- Yahoo SportsSep 7, 2026, 11:01 AMNFL Power Rankings: Where do Eagles land in NFC East ahead of Week 1
The Cowboys and Giants have improved, but the Eagles remain the favorites to win the NFC East.
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