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League: NFLSport: FootballCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

Patriots ranked 14th in ESPN's preseason Football Power Index for 2026

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 3, 2026, 3:35 PM

Last updated Jun 3, 2026

Patriots ranked 14th in ESPN's preseason Football Power Index for 2026
Summary

The New England Patriots enter the 2026 season ranked No. 14 in ESPN's Football Power Index (FPI), with a projected scoring margin of +1.4. Despite a 14-3 record last season and an AFC championship, the Patriots are the first team to start outside the top 10 after making a Super Bowl since 2015. Factors affecting their ranking include a weak schedule in 2025 and their performance against playoff teams. The Buffalo Bills lead the division with a 67.6% chance of winning the AFC East, while the Patriots have a 30.6% chance. Analysts view the Patriots as long-shot contenders for Super Bowl success in 2026.

Source Links
Yahoo Sports
By the Numbers
  • •Patriots had a 14-3 record and won the AFC championship last season.
  • •They rank behind teams that missed the playoffs including Cowboys and Bengals.
  • •The Bills are favored to win the AFC East with a 67.6% chance.
  • •Patriots' Super Bowl chances are estimated at 6.7% for 2026.
  • •They lead the league in EPA per play on offense despite a weak schedule.
Latest Updates
  • 3:35 PMYahoo Sports — Patriots Rank Shockingly Low In ESPN's Preseason Football Power Index
What they're saying
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The reigning AFC champions are outside the top 10 of ESPN's rating system.

Related Teams & Leagues
Baltimore RavensBuffalo BillsCincinnati BengalsDallas CowboysHouston TexansJacksonville JaguarsNFLFootball

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