NFL Nation reporters have updated the league-wide power rankings for Week 9, featuring a 1-32 poll and the best in-season trade acquisitions in franchise history. The article highlights that the 2026 season has seen an unusual number of close games, with 71 games decided by one score through Week 8, tying 2022 for the most in NFL history. With the trade deadline approaching Nov. 10, teams like the Bears and 49ers have already been active.
The rankings evaluate how all 32 teams stack up, with analysts focusing on recent performance and historical trades. The Denver Broncos break into the top five after defeating the Chiefs, fueled by quarterback Bo Nix's 13 fourth-quarter comeback wins, the most by any QB in their first three seasons since 1950. Denver is now the favorite to win the AFC West on Draft Kings.
The NFC North stands out as the only division with all four teams in the top 15, led by the Bears at No. 5 and the Packers at No. 14. Meanwhile, the Ravens have dropped six spots after a blowout loss to the Bills; Baltimore lost two quarterbacks to injury, inserting rookie Joe Fagnano into the spotlight. The full list begins with a new No. 1 team from last week, covering every franchise from the Arizona Cardinals to the Washington Commanders.
Notable trade acquisitions include LB Cornelius Bennett to the Bills in 1987 and DE Fred Dean to the 49ers in 1981, with the Cowboys' acquisition of Emmitt Smith via the Herschel Walker trade also featured.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing