The 2025 NFL season kicked off with a dramatic opening week, culminating in a comeback victory for the Minnesota Vikings over the Chicago Bears on “Monday Night Football.” The week was filled with upsets and thrilling finishes, including the Los Angeles Chargers defeating the Kansas City Chiefs in São Paulo, Brazil, and the Buffalo Bills erasing a 15-point deficit in the final four minutes to stun the Baltimore Ravens. Following an eventful Week 1, the preseason hierarchy has been upended, prompting a complete restack of all 32 teams.
In this updated power ranking, compiled by a panel of more than 80 NFL experts, we evaluate how every team stacks up heading into Week 2. Additionally, our NFL Nation reporters have identified the top non-quarterback newcomer—a rookie or recent acquisition—who made the most significant impact for each team in their debut performance.
Buffalo Bills
Week 1 result: Beat the Ravens 41-40
Preseason ranking: 3
Best newcomer performance: K Matt Prater
Just days after arriving in Buffalo on a red-eye flight, the 41-year-old Prater delivered a game-winning 32-yard field goal as time expired. Signed to fill in for an injured Tyler Bass, the 19-year veteran was perfect in his debut, converting all three field goal attempts and both extra points. “I’m thankful for him,” left tackle Dion Dawkins joked. “I’m glad that somebody could come in on Thursday and help us big.”
Philadelphia Eagles
Week 1 result: Beat the Cowboys 24-20
Preseason ranking: 1
Best newcomer performance: LB Jihaad Campbell
The rookie from Alabama was a force on defense, playing all but five snaps. He made a pivotal impact in the second half by forcing a fumble that halted a promising Cowboys drive. Campbell finished with three tackles and did not allow a reception on two targets. His most impressive play was a deep pass breakup against tight end Brevyn Spann-Ford, showcasing his coverage skills. The linebacker duo of Campbell and Zack Baun is already showing signs of becoming one of the league’s best.
Baltimore Ravens
Week 1 result: Lost to the Bills 41-40
Preseason ranking: 4
Best newcomer performance: WR DeAndre Hopkins
Hopkins made a spectacular first impression, securing a one-handed, 29-yard touchdown for his very first catch as a Raven. It marked his fourth one-handed touchdown reception since 2017, tying him for the most in the NFL over that span. While the Ravens already possess a dynamic after-the-catch threat in Zay Flowers and a deep threat in Rashod Bateman, Hopkins provides the crucial ability to win contested catches.
Green Bay Packers
Week 1 result: Beat the Lions 27-13
Preseason ranking: 7
Best newcomer performance: DE Micah Parsons
Parsons electrified the Lambeau Field crowd and delivered a dominant debut for Green Bay. In just 29 snaps, he generated three pressures, including a sack and another that forced an interception. His presence also created opportunities for his teammates, as three other defensive linemen recorded sacks. “That’s why he’s here,” Packers coach Matt LaFleur said of the disruptive edge rusher.
Kansas City Chiefs
Week 1 result: Lost to the Chargers 27-21
Preseason ranking: 2
Best newcomer performance: OT Josh Simmons
In his debut as the new blindside protector for quarterback Patrick Mahomes, the first-round pick delivered a solid performance. Simmons did not surrender a sack, even while facing the Chargers’ top edge rusher, Khalil Mack. Though he was flagged for two false starts, he demonstrated impressive athleticism in the run game, an area where the Chiefs could utilize him more effectively moving forward.
Washington Commanders
Week 1 result: Beat the Giants 21-6
Preseason ranking: 6
Best newcomer performance: WR Deebo Samuel
Samuel sparked the offense with seven catches for 77 yards and added a 19-yard rushing touchdown. His versatile skill set provides a dynamic weapon, particularly as receivers Terry McLaurin and Noah Brown work their way back from injuries. With defenses forced to account for his threat in the run game, Samuel’s presence is critical for an offense still finding its rhythm.
Los Angeles Rams
Week 1 result: Beat the Texans 14-9
Preseason ranking: 8
Best newcomer performance: LB Nate Landman
The free agent signing made a game-changing play late in the fourth quarter, forcing a fumble to help seal the Rams’ victory. Landman, who was voted a team captain and serves as the defensive signal-caller, has quickly established himself as a leader. “He’s got a swag and a toughness that he plays with that resonates with his teammates, and he closed the game out in a big way for us,” coach Sean McVay said.
Detroit Lions
Week 1 result: Lost to the Packers 27-13
Preseason ranking: 5
Best newcomer performance: WR Isaac TeSlaa
While the Lions’ offense struggled for much of the game, rookie Isaac TeSlaa provided a late spark. The third-round pick made a spectacular 13-yard touchdown catch in the final minute for his first career reception, becoming just the 10th player in franchise history to score in his debut. The Hudsonville, Michigan, native has shown consistent improvement as a playmaker since training camp.
Los Angeles Chargers
Week 1 result: Beat the Chiefs 27-21
Preseason ranking: 14
Best newcomer performance: WR Keenan Allen
After being traded to the Bears last season, Allen returned to the Chargers as a free agent and made an immediate impact. He finished with seven catches for 68 yards and a touchdown, finding himself wide open on an out route for the score. The touchdown was the 60th of his career with the Chargers, making him only the third player in franchise history to reach that milestone.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Week 1 result: Beat the Falcons 23-20
Preseason ranking: 13
Best newcomer performance: WR Emeka Egbuka
In his NFL debut, the No. 19 overall pick caught two touchdown passes, including the game-winner with under a minute remaining. With veteran receivers Chris Godwin Jr. and Jalen McMillan sidelined by injuries, Egbuka’s deep-ball connection with quarterback Baker Mayfield provided a stabilizing presence for the offense. As defenses focus on Mike Evans, Egbuka is poised for more opportunities.
Denver Broncos
Week 1 result: Beat the Titans 20-12
Preseason ranking: 11
Best newcomer performance: S Talanoa Hufanga
Hufanga made an immediate impression this offseason, earning a captaincy from his teammates. On Sunday, he anchored a defense that held the Titans to just 133 total yards. Playing every defensive snap, Hufanga led the team with 10 tackles and added a forced fumble, validating coach Sean Payton’s desire for “first responders” on defense.
Cincinnati Bengals
Week 1 result: Beat the Browns 17-16
Preseason ranking: 9
Best newcomer performance: TE Noah Fant
Fant’s dual-threat ability as a blocker and receiver allowed him to play 50% of the offensive snaps. His impact was highlighted by a crucial third-down reception that set up Cincinnati’s first touchdown of the season. Filling in for the injured Erick All Jr., Fant’s versatility ensures he will remain an integral part of the Bengals’ offense.
Minnesota Vikings
Week 1 result: Beat the Bears 27-24
Preseason ranking: 10
Best newcomer performance: RB Jordan Mason
Mason provided the physical running style the Vikings needed, rushing for 68 yards, with 54 of those coming after halftime to fuel the team’s comeback. Coach Kevin O’Connell credited Mason’s hard running with opening up passing lanes for quarterback J.J. McCarthy, which led to three fourth-quarter touchdowns. Though technically the backup, Mason has already made a strong case to be the team’s primary rusher.
San Francisco 49ers
Week 1 result: Beat the Seahawks 17-13
Preseason ranking: 15
Best newcomer performance: S Marques Sigle
After injuries created an opening in training camp, Sigle seized the opportunity and won a starting job. In his debut, he delivered a solid performance with six tackles and a fumble recovery, demonstrating sound coverage skills. With fellow rookie Malik Mustapha expected back in October, the 49ers appear to have a promising young safety tandem.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Week 1 result: Beat the Jets 34-32
Preseason ranking: 16
Best newcomer performance: RB Kenneth Gainwell
While several newcomers made significant plays, Gainwell’s debut was pivotal. His forced fumble on special teams set up the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter. Although he had just 19 yards on seven carries, he saw more snaps than starter Jaylen Warren and contributed as a receiver with three catches, showcasing his all-around value.
Houston Texans
Week 1 result: Lost to the Rams 14-9
Preseason ranking: 12
Best newcomer performance: RB Nick Chubb
Chubb ran effectively in his Texans debut, gaining 60 yards on 13 carries. The former All-Pro back made a noticeable impact with two runs of over 10 yards. As Houston’s offense adjusts to a new system, Chubb’s reliable presence in the run game will be crucial to easing the transition for quarterback C.J. Stroud.
Atlanta Falcons
Week 1 result: Lost to the Buccaneers 23-20
Preseason ranking: 19
Best newcomer performance: LB Divine Deablo
Signed quietly in the offseason, Deablo impressed in training camp with his length and speed, earning a starting inside linebacker role. Against the Buccaneers, the former Raider recorded a half-sack, six combined tackles, and a pass breakup against Mike Evans. His versatility has made him an immediate contributor in the middle of Jeff Ulbrich’s defense.
Arizona Cardinals
Week 1 result: Beat the Saints 20-13
Preseason ranking: 22
Best newcomer performance: CB Will Johnson
The Cardinals’ second-round pick demonstrated the skill and football intelligence that earned him praise throughout the offseason. Targeted seven times, Johnson allowed just four catches for 32 yards and had an interception negated by a penalty on a teammate. Coach Jonathan Gannon noted that Johnson made only one significant mistake in an otherwise impressive debut.
Dallas Cowboys
Week 1 result: Lost to the Eagles 24-20
Preseason ranking: 18
Best newcomer performance: DT Kenny Clark
Acquired in the Micah Parsons trade, Clark immediately bolstered the Cowboys’ run defense. In his first game, he helped limit Saquon Barkley to 60 yards, playing 41 snaps and recording five tackles despite having only a week of practice. With Clark on the field, Dallas allowed just 2.8 yards per rush, underscoring his value as a run-stopper.
Seattle Seahawks
Week 1 result: Lost to the 49ers 17-13
Preseason ranking: 17
Best newcomer performance: DE DeMarcus Lawrence
The former Cowboy was a disruptive force in his Seahawks debut, finishing with six tackles, two tackles for loss, and a quarterback hit. Signed to fortify the edge while Uchenna Nwosu recovers from knee surgery, Lawrence played 52 snaps and provided the rugged defensive presence Seattle was looking for.
Las Vegas Raiders
Week 1 result: Beat the Patriots 20-13
Preseason ranking: 25
Best newcomer performance: LB Devin White
White began his Raiders tenure with an encouraging performance, leading the team with 11 tackles and adding a pressure. The former Buccaneer was particularly effective against the run, collecting eight run tackles and two run stuffs. After an injury to Elandon Roberts, White also demonstrated his versatility by taking snaps at middle linebacker.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Week 1 result: Beat the Panthers 26-10
Preseason ranking: 24
Best newcomer performance: CB Jourdan Lewis
The free agent signee was a turnover machine, recording an interception and a fumble recovery to go with five tackles and a quarterback hit. His fumble recovery late in the first half set up a field goal, and his interception sealed the game. Lewis helped set the tone for a defense that forced three turnovers after managing a league-low nine all last season.
Indianapolis Colts
Week 1 result: Beat the Dolphins 33-8
Preseason ranking: 26
Best newcomer performance: TE Tyler Warren
The rookie tight end, drafted 14th overall, had a debut that confirmed the Colts’ high expectations. Warren led the team with seven receptions for 76 yards, showcasing his ability to make difficult catches and gain yards after contact. He also lined up at fullback and converted a short-yardage first down, demonstrating the versatility he was known for at Penn State.
Chicago Bears
Week 1 result: Lost to the Vikings 27-24
Preseason ranking: 21
Best newcomer performance: CB Nahshon Wright
Filling in for an injured Jaylon Johnson, Wright made a huge impact with a 74-yard interception return for a touchdown in the third quarter. It was the Bears’ longest defensive touchdown since 2017. Although he was later flagged for a costly pass interference penalty, Wright stepped up in the absence of a key starter and proved his value to the secondary.
New York Jets
Week 1 result: Lost to the Steelers 34-32
Preseason ranking: 28
Best newcomer performance: RT Armand Membou
The No. 7 overall pick was impressive in his debut, allowing no sacks and only one quarterback pressure against Steelers pass rushers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith. Membou also displayed physicality in the run game, making a key block on Braelon Allen’s 8-yard touchdown run and helping the Jets rush for 182 yards.
Miami Dolphins
Week 1 result: Lost to the Colts 33-8
Preseason ranking: 20
Best newcomer performance: CB Rasul Douglas
In a difficult game for the Dolphins, Douglas was a bright spot. After entering the game due to an injury to Storm Duck, he made the most of his playing time, breaking up a pass and allowing just two catches on four targets. Having been with the team for only two weeks, Douglas will be relied upon heavily moving forward, as Duck is expected to miss multiple games.
New England Patriots
Week 1 result: Lost to the Raiders 20-13
Preseason ranking: 23
Best newcomer performance: OLB Harold Landry III
In his first game with the Patriots, Landry was a dominant force, totaling 2.5 sacks. Voted a team captain for the first time since high school, he showed the disruptive potential that first-year defensive coordinator Terrell Williams hoped for. Williams, who also coached Landry in Tennessee, noted he sees “a more mature player that understands… what he wants to be.”
Tennessee Titans
Week 1 result: Lost to the Broncos 20-12
Preseason ranking: 32
Best newcomer performance: WR Chimere Dike
Thrust into the primary returner role, the rookie responded with a 71-yard kickoff return that set up a field goal just before halftime. Dike reached a top speed of 20.5 mph on the play, the fastest of any Titans ball carrier in Week 1. In total, he amassed 144 yards on four kick returns, providing a much-needed spark on special teams.
Cleveland Browns
Week 1 result: Lost to the Bengals 17-16
Preseason ranking: 30
Best newcomer performance: TE Harold Fannin Jr.
The third-round pick caught seven passes in his debut—the most by a rookie tight end in Week 1 since the 1970 AFL/NFL merger. Though technically the second tight end behind David Njoku, Fannin served as a de facto starter as the Browns utilized two-tight end sets on half of their plays, finding consistent success with that formation.
Carolina Panthers
Week 1 result: Lost to the Jaguars 26-10
Preseason ranking: 27
Best newcomer performance: WR Tetairoa McMillan
The No. 8 overall pick made an immediate impact, leading the team in targets (9), receptions (5), and receiving yards (68). His day could have been even bigger had he secured a potential 33-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Bryce Young late in the third quarter.
New York Giants
Week 1 result: Lost to the Commanders 21-6
Preseason ranking: 29
Best newcomer performance: LB Brian Burns
In a game with few highlights for the Giants, Burns was a standout performer. He filled the stat sheet with two sacks, two tackles for loss, and six total tackles. The Pro Bowl edge rusher was a consistent factor on defense, continuing the strong form he displayed throughout the summer.
New Orleans Saints
Week 1 result: Lost to the Cardinals 20-13
Preseason ranking: 31
Best newcomer performance: LT Kelvin Banks Jr.
The No. 9 overall pick had a quietly solid debut at left tackle, giving up just two pressures and no sacks in 46 pass-blocking snaps. He was also the only Saints offensive lineman to not commit a penalty. With injuries affecting other starters on the line, the rookie’s steady performance was an encouraging sign.
