As we approach Week 7 of the 2024 NFL season, the league is already showcasing its mix of surprises and expected outcomes. From big wins by the Detroit Lions and Baltimore Ravens to tough losses for teams like the Carolina Panthers and New England Patriots, each week offers a new perspective on how all 32 teams compare. With the help of our NFL Nation reporters, we’ve compiled a power ranking that reflects each team’s performance and growth.
Our panel of over 80 NFL experts, including writers, editors, and TV personalities, has evaluated the standings to provide this comprehensive ranking.
Kansas City Chiefs (5-0)
Week 6 ranking: 1
Lesson learned: Defense will carry the Chiefs.
The Chiefs, while known for their high-scoring offense, are proving this season that their defense is a key asset. Ranking 15th in scoring per game (23.6 points), Kansas City’s defense is holding its own by allowing just 17 points per game, the 6th best in the league. They’ve faced four of the NFL’s top 11 scoring teams and held each below their season average. — Adam Teicher
Minnesota Vikings (5-0)
Week 6 ranking: 2
Lesson learned: Wait until the Vikings play the games.
Predicted to struggle before the season began, the Vikings are now undefeated and dominating with an NFL-best +63 point differential. Despite preseason expectations of a poor finish in the NFC North, Minnesota has silenced the critics. — Kevin Seifert
Detroit Lions (4-1)
Week 6 ranking: 4
Lesson learned: The Lions’ ground attack is elite.
Running behind a powerhouse offensive line, David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs have emerged as the top running back duo. With their dominant performance in a 47-9 win over the Cowboys, both backs have recorded over 70 scrimmage yards in five consecutive games, and Montgomery set a franchise record with eight consecutive games with a rushing touchdown. — Eric Woodyard
Houston Texans (5-1)
Week 6 ranking: 3
Lesson learned: The Texans can win in the clutch.
With four of their five wins coming by one score, the Texans have mastered situational football. Led by head coach DeMeco Ryans, Houston has proven they can handle tight games, including a Week 5 slugfest against the Bills. — DJ Bien-Aime
Baltimore Ravens (4-2)
Week 6 ranking: 5
Lesson learned: The Ravens will go as far as the offense takes them.
While the Ravens boast the No. 1 offense with Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry, their defense has struggled, giving up 24.8 points per game, the third most in team history through six games. The offense must continue its dominant performance to carry the team forward. — Jamison Hensley
Buffalo Bills (4-2)
Week 6 ranking: 6
Lesson learned: Don’t overreact.
Despite highs and lows, the Bills have shown resilience. Though they’ve had their share of struggles—most notably in losses to the Ravens and Texans—the team is known for improving later in the season. With a roster still adjusting, Josh Allen and the Bills have room to grow. — Alaina Getzenberg
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-2)
Week 6 ranking: 8
Lesson learned: QB Baker Mayfield and OC Liam Coen are a dangerous combination.
The Buccaneers’ offense came alive in Week 6, putting up 51 points against a Saints defense that had allowed just a 25% red zone scoring rate. With 594 total yards, a franchise record, the Bucs’ offense is hitting its stride. — Jenna Laine
Green Bay Packers (4-2)
Week 6 ranking: 9
Lesson learned: The Packers’ defense can take the ball away.
Though the Packers’ defense may not excel in yardage stats, they’ve been excellent in turnovers, leading the league with 17 takeaways in six games. They’ve shown they can win by capitalizing on opponents’ mistakes. — Rob Demovsky
Washington Commanders (4-2)
Week 6 ranking: 7
Lesson learned: Rookie QB Jayden Daniels is legit.
Daniels has stepped in as the Commanders’ quarterback of the future, ranking third in QBR and leading Washington to four wins. His chemistry with wideout Terry McLaurin has only grown, making him a strong presence moving forward. — John Keim
San Francisco 49ers (3-3)
Week 6 ranking: 13
Lesson learned: Nothing will come easy for the 49ers.
Injuries to key players like Christian McCaffrey and Javon Hargrave have left the 49ers struggling in tight games, with three of their losses coming by one score. They need to find ways to win close matchups to make a serious playoff push. — Nick Wagoner
Pittsburgh Steelers (4-2)
Week 6 ranking: 15
Lesson learned: The offensive identity is a work in progress.
The Steelers’ offense has yet to fully reveal itself, despite a strong performance in Week 6. With Najee Harris leading the team to 183 rushing yards, Pittsburgh’s ground game is showing potential, but there are still questions about the quarterback position. — Brooke Pryor
