Seattle Seahawks lead the first NFL power rankings of the 2026 season

As the 2026 NFL season gets underway, the Seattle Seahawks enter the opening week as the top-ranked team. The reigning champions remain the consensus first choice after defeating the New England Patriots 29-13 in Super Bowl LX earlier this year. The rankings reflect preseason expectations rather than the outcome of games already played this weekend. The LA Rams and Buffalo Bills hold the second and third positions, respectively, as teams prepare for their full slate of games. Despite roster adjustments and coaching changes across the league, the rankings maintain stability for perennial contenders like the Baltimore Ravens and San Francisco 49ers while accounting for potential regression in other franchises. These evaluations serve as a baseline for the year, with future updates planned at key intervals throughout the season.

• 9:00 PMYahoo Sports — 2026 NFL Power Rankings