NFC South teams share lower tier in 2026 NFL power rankings

The Carolina Panthers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Atlanta Falcons, and New Orleans Saints hold the same position in recent NFL power rankings for the 2026 season. All four teams were placed in the same tier due to their collective performance last year, where each finished with a sub-.500 record. Despite the Carolina Panthers securing the division title in 2025, they did so with an 8-9 record and a negative point differential. The current outlook for the group remains uncertain as each franchise faces roster or personnel challenges. Atlanta continues to navigate a difficult quarterback situation, while Tampa Bay remains in a contract impasse with Baker Mayfield. Meanwhile, New Orleans looks to build on the rookie performance of Tyler Shough, and Carolina relies on the variable output of Bryce Young. Analysts suggest that the competitive balance within the division leaves all four teams on equal footing entering the new season.

• 12:31 PMYahoo Sports — Panthers in same Super Bowl tier as Buccaneers, Falcons, Saints