Welcome to Week 4 of the 2024 NFL season.
The Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks, and Pittsburgh Steelers remain undefeated after Week 3, continuing to capture attention. In contrast, the San Francisco 49ers and Miami Dolphins faced their second consecutive defeat. The New Orleans Saints experienced a reality check when their potent offense was subdued by the Philadelphia Eagles, while the Baltimore Ravens claimed their first victory of the season against the Dallas Cowboys.
As we move into Week 4, we’re beginning to form a clearer picture of how teams rank in our Power Rankings.
Alongside these rankings, NFL Nation reporters identified the most pressing offensive issues for each team. From challenges in the red zone to increasing injury concerns, we examined the factors affecting offensive performance across the league.
Now, let’s take a look at the updated 1-32 rankings below.
Our power panel, consisting of more than 80 writers, editors, and TV personalities, evaluates the performance of NFL teams, ranking them from 1 to 32.
Previous rankings: Preseason | Week 2 | Week 3
Jump to a team:
ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN
CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND
JAX | KC | LAC | LAR | LV | MIA | MIN
NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF
SEA | TB | TEN | WSH
Week 3 ranking: 1
Biggest issue on offense: Red zone scoring
The Chiefs have converted only 44% of their trips inside the 20 into touchdowns, placing them tied for 22nd in the league. With seven field goals kicked, they’re struggling to find the end zone, and one of their primary red zone options, tight end Travis Kelce, has not yet scored. Kansas City has been involved in three games decided by one score, two of which came down to the final moments. They’ve triumphed in all three but are walking a fine line, which could be remedied by improving their drive completions. — Adam Teicher
Editor’s Picks
1 Related
Week 3 ranking: 2
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Biggest issue on offense: Developing the wide receiver group
Picking apart the Bills’ offense during the first three weeks of the season feels a bit excessive, as this squad has exhibited its ability to succeed in numerous ways and ranks among the NFL’s elite offenses. Nevertheless, there are still avenues for the wide receiver unit to improve. Aside from Khalil Shakir — who has successfully received all 14 of his targets so far — another reliable and steady wide receiver has yet to emerge. Keep an eye on rookie Keon Coleman, who was sidelined for the first quarter against the Jaguars on Monday due to tardiness but managed to score a touchdown afterward. Additionally, there’s potential for Curtis Samuel and Mack Hollins to expand their contributions. Observing how this group evolves will be intriguing. — Alaina Getzenberg
Week 3 ranking: 11
Biggest issue on offense: Performance of the right guard
For a team that ranks fourth in the NFL with an average of 26 points per game and boasts an overall offensive efficiency of 72.03, concerns are few and far between. However, if we are being critical, the Vikings are still compensating for disappointing performances from right guard Ed Ingram. Over the first three weeks, Ingram is placed 54th in pass block win rate (82%) and 44th in run block win rate (68.1%) among guards. The Vikings might consider activating veteran Dalton Risner from injured reserve to add depth, but with just one interior offensive lineman underachieving, things are likely in good shape overall. — Kevin Seifert
Week 3 ranking: 10
Biggest issue on offense: Pass protection problems
The Seahawks find themselves at 30th in pass block win rate (46.1%) and rank 23rd in terms of pressure allowed (33.0%). They are 16th in the number of sacks permitted per dropback (7.1%), but it is essential to note that QB Geno Smith is releasing the ball at the sixth-fastest rate among quarterbacks (averaging 2.66 seconds). The situation will become even more challenging for Seattle’s offensive line, as they will need to rely on their third-choice right tackle. Stone Forsythe steps in for George Fant, who had previously taken over for the injured Abraham Lucas, who is not expected to return from the physically unable to perform list until at least midseason. — Brady Henderson
Week 3 ranking: 5<img“`html
1:39
Why McAfee is pleased that the Lions are ‘back to winning’
Pat McAfee rejoices in the Lions’ resurgence with a victory over the Cardinals.
Week 3 ranking: 6
Key challenge on offense: QB Jalen Hurts’ turnover issues
Hurts has recorded four interceptions and has been responsible for three fumbles across three games. He has accumulated 12 turnovers in his last nine regular-season games, leading the league in this category. Moreover, he has thrown an interception in seven consecutive games, marking the most for an Eagles quarterback since Ty Detmer in 1996. With injuries stacking up within the offense, it is increasingly crucial for Hurts to reduce his mistakes. — Tim McManus
Week 3 ranking: 12
Primary concern on offense: Red zone efficiency
Even though the Steelers scored twice in the end zone during their Week 3 victory — and were halted just shy of another — they sit at the bottom for red zone efficiency, converting touchdowns on only 25% of their red zone opportunities. This is a significant drop from their 48.89% rate in 2023. Numerous factors are affecting this poor performance, including a new offensive coordinator, a backup quarterback forced into starting just days before the season began, ongoing injuries across the offensive line, and poorly timed penalties. Sunday’s game could have initiated a turnaround with a 20-point performance, yet the Steelers were still reliant on kicker Chris Boswell when drives stalled just 10 and 12 yards from the end zone. — Brooke Pryor
Highlights from NFL Nation
• An analysis of Jayden Daniels’ 600-yard game
• How the Bills connect over a board game
• Cowboys are optimistic about the benefits of a short week
• Why Lawrence has yet to meet expectations
• Is a 70-yard field goal attempt from Cowboys’ Aubrey on the horizon?
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Key offensive concern: Insufficient YAC
It’s astonishing how the team recognized for its proficiency in yards after the catch (YAC) in 2023 has struggled in this area during the first three games of the season. The Niners are averaging merely 3.1 YAC per reception, placing them at the bottom of the NFL rankings. Injuries to their three top YAC players (receiver Deebo Samuel Sr., running back Christian McCaffrey, and tight end George Kittle) have been detrimental, but the offense fundamentally relies on generating significant plays post-catch. The lack of this extra yardage has compelled San Francisco to adopt a more deliberate approach to its drives, culminating in a red zone touchdown rate of 50%, which is tied for 15th in the league. — Nick Wagoner
Week 3 ranking: 9
Key offensive concern: Injuries affecting C Erik McCoy and TE Taysom Hill
McCoy exited just three plays into the Saints’ matchup against the Eagles on Sunday due to a groin injury, which poses a significant challenge for New Orleans if he remains out for an extended period. As a captain and the top performer on the offensive line, his absence, combined with Hill’s (chest) unavailability against the Eagles, likely contributed to the Saints’ offensive production dropping from an average of 45 points per game in Weeks 1-2 to a mere 12 in Week 3. For a full recovery, both players must return to health. — Katherine Terrell
Week 3 ranking: 15
Key offensive concern: Penalties
The Packers lead the league in offensive penalties after three games, having accrued the second-most penalty yards. They have a league-high of nine offensive holding calls, with left tackle Rasheed Walker contributing four of those (he leads the team with six penalties overall). Penalties have posed a consistent issue for the Packers, who recorded 10 penalties on Sunday against the Titans and 26 in total across all phases. “There’s a lot to address, clearly, regarding the penalties,” said coach Matt LaFleur following Sunday’s victory at Tennessee. — Rob Demovsky
1:35
McAfee applauds Malik Willis for his performance
Pat McAfee and his team discuss the impressive performance from Packers quarterback Malik Willis in place of the injured Jordan Love.
Week 3 ranking: 13
Key offensive concern: TE Mark Andrews’ sluggish beginning
The three-time Pro Bowler has transitioned from being QB Lamar Jackson’s primary target to an unexpectedly minimal presence in the passing attack. Andrews has managed only six receptions for 65 yards,
both of which mark his lowest tally three weeks into the season. The rise of tight end Isaiah Likely appears to have diminished some of Andrews’ targets, while the addition of running back Derrick Henry seems to have limited his red zone chances. On Sunday, the Ravens opted for a run-heavy strategy, leading to Andrews not making a catch for the first time in 76 games. — Jamison Hensley
Week 3 ranking: 7
Biggest issue on offense: Deficiencies in the run game
While it’s early and the Bucs stand at 2-1, addressing last year’s league-low statistical rushing attack will require time, especially with starting right tackle Luke Goedeke out for over two games. The team must find a way to energize their ground game to support QB Baker Mayfield, who has faced 12 sacks in two weeks. The two runs exceeding 30 yards by Bucky Irving in Weeks 1 and 3 significantly inflate their 4.0 yards per rush average. Tampa Bay currently ranks 27th in rushing yards per game, averaging only 91. — Jenna Laine
Week 3 ranking: 16
Biggest issue on offense: WR Garrett Wilson’s slow start
Fifteen receptions across three games is acceptable — that projects to an 85-catch season — but higher expectations surround Wilson, who has previously delivered two commendable seasons. Currently, Wilson and quarterback Aaron Rodgers are struggling to connect, as Wilson has yet to surpass 68 receiving yards in any game. Their last two opponents, the Patriots and Titans, assigned their top cornerbacks to shadow Wilson on most plays — Christian Gonzalez and L’Jarius Sneed, respectively. Combined with frequent split-safety looks, this has hindered Wilson’s potential to break out. — Rich Cimini
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Week 3 ranking: 8
Biggest issue on offense: Injuries to key players
Quarterback Justin Herbert (ankle) and offensive tackles Rashawn Slater (pectoral) and Joe Alt (MCL sprain) all departed Sunday’s loss to the Steelers due to injuries. These three are arguably the Chargers’ most critical offensive assets, and their absence poses significant challenges for L.A. to maintain a productive offense. Herbert was spotted in a walking boot, and receivers Joshua Palmer (elbow/calf) and DJ Chark Jr. (hip) are also dealing with injuries, preventing their participation in Sunday’s game. As it stands, five offensive starters for the Chargers have ongoing injuries as they head into Week 4. — Kris Rhim
Week 3 ranking: 14
Biggest issue on offense: Running back by committee
Coach Mike McCarthy often emphasizes the limited rushing attempts—only 49 by running backs across three games. However, the performances of Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, and Deuce Vaughn have fallen short. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, the Cowboys have amassed minus-74 rushing yards relative to expectations, ranking them third-worst in the NFL, only ahead of Chicago and Miami. Beyond the low number of attempts, the Cowboys have struggled to find continuity in their rushing attack. To illustrate, quarterback Lamar Jackson had just one yard fewer on Sunday than Dowdle leads the Cowboys with this season (88). — Todd Archer
Week 3 ranking: 19
Biggest issue on offense: Right tackle depth
Just three games into the season, the Cardinals have already switched to their fourth right tackle. Jonah Williams, the starter, is on injured reserve due to a right knee injury, while his backup, Kelvin Beachum, missed the loss to the Lions on Sunday because of a hamstring injury. Following Beachum, Jackson Barton exited the game with a toe injury, leaving Arizona to finish with Charlie Heck for the last few moments. For a team that focuses on running the ball to support its explosive passing game, being down to the fourth-string right tackle is far from ideal. — Josh Weinfuss
Week 3 ranking: 20
Biggest issue on offense: Injuries to top wide receivers
Not many teams could withstand injuries to their top two receivers in consecutive weeks at the beginning of the season, yet that is the challenge the Rams are facing. With Puka Nacua (MCL sprain) on injured reserve and Cooper Kupp (ankle sprain) sidelined for an extended period, the Rams leaned on running back Kyren Williams during their comeback victory in Week 3. Although the offense demonstrated resilience and progress late against the 49ers, achieving consistency will be challenging until Nacua, Kupp, and several key figures on the offensive line make their return. — Sarah Barshop
Week 3 ranking: 27
Biggest issue on offense: Red zone scoring
As they approached the Monday night game, Washington found itself ranked 27th in red zone efficiency, largely because they resorted to kicking six field goals in their Week 2 game against the Giants. Four penalties impeded drives during that game, but there needs to be an overall enhancement in execution. The passing game has struggled in the red zone (quarterback Jayden Daniels completed just 1 of 5 red zone passes in the first two games), and the running attack was tied for 16th, averaging 2.7 yards per carry. Following Monday’s victory over the Bengals, the Commanders achieved a touchdown on every one of their red zone possessions, reflecting significant progress. — John Keim
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Week 3 ranking: 17
Biggest issue on offense: Inability to sustain drives
In their first three games, the Dolphins have seen 19 out of 33 offensive drives conclude within five plays or less. This struggle to form extended drives has resulted in fewer opportunities to score, leading to the lowest-scoring offense in the NFL thus far. Miami has tallied merely 33 points this season—an astonishing figure for a team that impressed with 70 points in Week 3 of the previous season. The absence of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (concussion) has posed a significant challenge for the team since 2022, and it remains uncertain how long they will be without him this season. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
0:59
Schefter outlines QB options for Dolphins to ‘rescue their season’
Adam Schefter appears on “The Pat McAfee Show” and discusses potential quarterback options for the Dolphins during Tua Tagovailoa’s absence.
Week 3 ranking: 23
Biggest issue on offense: Injuries on the offensive line
The Falcons’ offense seemed to gain momentum early against the Chiefs until right tackle Kaleb McGary (knee) and center Drew Dalman (ankle) suffered injuries in the second quarter. Following Dalman’s exit, quarterback Kirk Cousins fumbled on two consecutive plays. With both offensive linemen present, Cousins completed 7 out of 9 passes for 118 yards and a touchdown; without them, his performance dropped to 13 completions on 20 attempts for 112 yards and an interception. Both starters are expected to miss time, necessitating that backup linemen Storm Norton and Ryan Neuzil step up at tackle and center, respectively. — Marc Raimondi
Week 3 ranking: 21
Biggest issue on offense: Imbalance in play calling
While the Raiders have found themselves in a position of trailing by at least 10 points
Watson still faces challenges with his accuracy and feel; his 24.5% off-target percentage ranks as the third worst in the NFL. The offensive line has seen a decline and dealt with several injuries to key players. This lack of consistency has made it difficult to forge a clear identity in both the run and pass games. Strategies that fail to hide the weaknesses of the offensive line and Watson’s shortcomings have only exacerbated the situation. — Daniel Oyefusi
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Week 3 ranking: 28
Biggest issue on offense: Quarterback inaccuracy
Quarterback Anthony Richardson has produced some of the most thrilling plays this season, leading the NFL with 12.6 air yards per attempt. However, his consistency from play to play has been a concern, resulting in missed opportunities for easy first downs. Richardson’s completion rate sits at 49.1%, a drop from 59.5% during the four games he played as a rookie last season. His time away due to injury may have adversely affected his mechanics. — Stephen Holder
Week 3 ranking: 18
Biggest issue on offense: Offensive imbalance
The Bengals have been among the top teams in passing, directing the ball more than most in the first two weeks of the season. They were second in designed pass plays with a rate of 70.4%, according to ESPN Research. Despite this, they ranked 26th in expected points added per dropback and 24th in yards per dropback. The Bengals must either enhance their passing efficiency or find a more effective way to integrate the run game. With only 58 rushing attempts by running backs, Cincinnati has the second-fewest in the league after Week 3. — Ben Baby
Week 3 ranking: 26
Biggest issue on offense: No identity
Through the first three weeks, the Bears have struggled to define their offensive identity. Chicago made significant investments to bring in running back D’Andre Swift, who currently averages a team-low of 1.8 yards per carry as the lead back. Without a reliable ground game, the Bears have shifted to passing the ball at the second-highest rate, relying heavily on rookie quarterback Caleb Williams (who has thrown 118 attempts). There seems to be no balance in what offensive coordinator Shane Waldron is devising, and ongoing issues in pass protection have only intensified the team’s struggles (Williams is 4-of-21 for 36 yards, with one touchdown and three interceptions when pressured over three games). — Courtney Cronin
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Week 3 ranking: 30
Primary concern on offense: Running back distribution
Head Coach Sean Payton acknowledged the challenges of establishing an effective running back rotation, particularly if Tyler Badie’s recent performances indicate greater potential. Badie tops the team’s running backs with 86 yards gained on just 10 carries, whereas both Javonte Williams and Jaleel McLaughlin are struggling with an average of only 2.2 yards per carry. Similar to his training camp display, Badie tends to wait patiently for openings before breaking off significant runs, including a notable 43-yard dash in the recent victory against the Buccaneers. However, Payton has indicated a preference for using two running backs, regardless of the situation. This reliance makes it difficult to rejuvenate an inconsistent rushing offense with three different backs. — Jeff Legwold
Week 3 ranking: 24
Primary concern on offense: Third down performance
It has been challenging to pinpoint a single problem for the offense during the initial three weeks, but the failure to sustain drives has stifled any potential momentum. The Jaguars have managed to convert only 21.9% of their third downs, ranking among the worst in the league. Without the ability to remain on the field, it’s nearly impossible for the Jaguars’ offense to inflict any damage. — Michael DiRocco
Week 3 ranking: 25
Primary concern on offense: Pass protection issues
Veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett faced a barrage of hits in the Week 3 defeat, being pressured an alarming 15 times, which brings the season total to 30. He has experienced nine sacks, a result of poor communication on the offensive line that has led to numerous unblocked rushers, compounded by inconsistent support from the running backs during blitz protection. The Patriots lack a game-changing receiver, so even when Brissett has time to throw, the mounting pressure often disrupts his rhythm as he waits for a receiver to break free. — Mike Reiss
Week 3 ranking: 31<img alt="" src="https://a.espncdn
Week 3 ranking: 32
Biggest issue on offense: Quarterback performance
Quarterback Andy Dalton demonstrated that coach Dave Canales made the right decision by benching Bryce Young. With Dalton at the helm, the Panthers transformed from a stagnant offense to a formidable force. On Sunday, Dalton threw three touchdown passes in the first half against the Raiders, while Young has managed only two touchdown passes in his last nine outings. This game marked the Panthers’ first occasion since Week 8 of 2022 with a 300-yard passing game, a 100-yard rushing game, and a 100-yard receiving game. – David Newton
1:49
McAfee praises the Andy Dalton-led Panthers
Pat McAfee expresses admiration for Andy Dalton’s performance during the Panthers’ Week 3 victory.
Week 3 ranking: 29
Biggest issue on offense: Pass protection
The Titans’ offensive line has struggled significantly in protecting quarterback Will Levis, resulting in 15 sacks. Only the Browns have permitted more. While not every sack can be directly blamed on the offensive line, the frequency with which players are beaten up front is concerning. After three games, Tennessee’s pass block win rate sits at 51.8%, ranking as the sixth worst in the NFL. These challenges in pass protection have hindered coach Brian Callahan from implementing longer plays, particularly in third-and-long scenarios, as Levis faces relentless pressure and has minimal time to evaluate the field. — Turron Davenport
2024 NFL Power Rankings: Week 4 Analysis and Offensive Challenges for Every Team
2024 NFL Power Rankings: Week 4 Overview
As we dive into Week 4 of the 2024 NFL season, the competition is heating up with teams striving for playoff positions. Our power rankings reflect team performance, statistical analysis, and upcoming challenges that could impact their offensive strategies. Here’s how the teams stack up:
| Rank | Team | Record | Last Week’s Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | San Francisco 49ers | 3-0 | 1 |
| 2 | Kansas City Chiefs | 3-0 | 2 |
| 3 | Philadelphia Eagles | 2-1 | 3 |
| 4 | Miami Dolphins | 2-1 | 5 |
| 5 | Buffalo Bills | 2-1 | 4 |
| 6 | Cincinnati Bengals | 2-1 | 7 |
| 7 | Baltimore Ravens | 1-2 | 6 |
| 8 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | 2-1 | 8 |
| 9 | New York Giants | 1-2 | 9 |
| 10 | Seattle Seahawks | 1-2 | 10 |
Offensive Challenges for Each Team
Understanding each team’s offensive strengths and challenges is crucial as the season progresses. Below, we analyze the top teams and their current offensive hurdles.
1. San Francisco 49ers
– **Key Challenge**: Maintaining offensive rhythm amidst injuries.
– **Stat to Watch**: They’ve averaged 28 points per game, but can their depth stepping in keep that momentum?
2. Kansas City Chiefs
- **Key Challenge**: Balancing offensive play calling to keep opponents guessing.
– **Stat to Watch**: They lead the league in passing yards (1,012). Will they keep the air attack alive against tougher defenses?
3. Philadelphia Eagles
– **Key Challenge**: Struggling in the red zone.
– **Stat to Watch**: The Eagles have scored 60% of their red zone opportunities. Can they improve this against elite defenses?
4. Miami Dolphins
– **Key Challenge**: Injuries in the running back group.
– **Stat to Watch**: The Dolphins have a rushing average of 4.5 yards per carry. Can they sustain this with backups?
5. Buffalo Bills
– **Key Challenge**: Finding consistency in the passing game.
– **Stat to Watch**: Josh Allen has thrown 4 interceptions already. Can he minimize mistakes moving forward?
6. Cincinnati Bengals
– **Key Challenge**: Protecting quarterback Joe Burrow.
– **Stat to Watch**: The Bengals have allowed 10 sacks this season. Can they shore up their offensive line?
7. Baltimore Ravens
– **Key Challenge**: Integrating new offensive pieces smoothly.
– **Stat to Watch**: They’ve averaged 22 points per game, which needs improvement. Will new players adapt in time?
8. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
– **Key Challenge**: Establishing a consistent run game.
– **Stat to Watch**: Averaging only 75 yards rushing per game, can they bolster their ground attack?
9. New York Giants
– **Key Challenge**: Overcoming a struggling offensive line.
- **Stat to Watch**: They rank near the bottom in sacks allowed. Can they provide Daniel Jones with more protection?
10. Seattle Seahawks
– **Key Challenge**: Finding a reliable second receiver.
- **Stat to Watch**: DK Metcalf has been stellar, but secondary options must step up. Who will emerge this week?
Benefits of Understanding Offensive Challenges
Recognizing the offensive challenges faced by each team helps fans and analysts alike in predicting outcomes and making informed bets. Here are a few benefits of delving into these challenges:
– **Enhanced Fan Engagement**: Fans become more invested when they understand the nuances affecting their team.
– **Informed Betting Decisions**: Bettors can analyze potential outcomes based on a team’s offensive consistency and adaptability.
– **Strategic Insights for Coaches**: Coaches can refine strategies based on known challenges, allowing for in-game adjustments.
Practical Tips for Fans and Analysts
If you’re looking to enhance your understanding of NFL offenses and improve your analyses, here are some practical tips:
– **Follow Injury Reports**: Stay updated on player injuries as they significantly impact offensive performance.
– **Analyze Matchups**: Look at how teams’ offensive lines stack up against the opposing defensive fronts.
– **Watch for Trends**: Pay attention to whether a team is improving or declining in specific offensive metrics week over week.
Case Studies: Teams to Watch
This season, several teams are showcasing noteworthy offensive evolutions. Below are a couple of teams to keep an eye on:
– **Miami Dolphins**: Their innovative offensive schemes have led to impressive yardage gains. Watch how they adapt to injuries.
– **Cincinnati Bengals**: With stars like Burrow and Chase, their potential is sky-high. Can they overcome their offensive line struggles?
First-Hand Experience: Insider Insights
Interviews with coaches and analysts provide invaluable insights into the offensive challenges teams face:
– **Coach’s Perspective**: “Every week presents unique challenges. Our focus is on adapting our play style to exploit opponents’ weaknesses,” said a prominent NFL head coach.
– **Player Insights**: Players often share that communication is key. “When everyone is on the same page, it’s easier to overcome obstacles,” shared a veteran quarterback.
Conclusion
As we move forward in the 2024 NFL season, each team’s offensive challenges will play a pivotal role in the unfolding drama of the league. By staying informed and engaged, fans can enjoy a deeper connection to the game and gain valuable insights for predicting future outcomes. Keep an eye on our power rankings and challenges as the season progresses!
