2024 NFL Week 4 Power Rankings: Ranking all 32 Teams
As we head into Week 4 of the 2024 NFL season, several teams have already made a statement with their performances. The undefeated Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks, and Pittsburgh Steelers have caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. On the other hand, the San Francisco 49ers and Miami Dolphins find themselves on a two-game losing streak. The New Orleans Saints, known for their high-powered offense, were brought back down to earth in a loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, while the Baltimore Ravens secured their first win of the season against the Dallas Cowboys.
After three weeks of intense play, we are starting to see how each team stacks up in our Power Rankings. In addition to our rankings, the NFL Nation reporters have identified the biggest issue on offense for every team. From red zone struggles to mounting injuries, each team faces its own challenges on the offensive side of the ball.
Let’s dive into the latest 1-32 rankings and explore the key issues facing each team:
1. Kansas City Chiefs (3-0)
Despite their undefeated record, the Chiefs have struggled with red zone scoring, finding the end zone on only 44% of their trips inside the 20-yard line. Tight end Travis Kelce, a key red zone threat, has yet to score a touchdown. While the Chiefs have managed to win all three games, their reliance on field goals in the red zone could prove costly in close contests.
2. Buffalo Bills (3-0)
The Bills’ offense has been firing on all cylinders, but there is room for improvement in developing the wide receiver room. While Khalil Shakir has been a reliable target, emerging players like rookie Keon Coleman, Curtis Samuel, and Mack Hollins need to step up to provide more depth and consistency in the passing game.
3. Minnesota Vikings (3-0)
The Vikings have been impressive on offense, ranking fourth in scoring and overall offensive efficiency. However, right guard Ed Ingram has struggled, ranking low in pass block win rate and run block win rate among guards. While the Vikings have been able to cover for Ingram’s subpar play, the team may consider mixing in veteran Dalton Risner to bolster the offensive line.
Seattle Seahawks (3-0)
The Seahawks have excelled on offense but have faced challenges in pass protection, ranking near the bottom in pass block win rate and pressure allowed. With injuries impacting the offensive line, the Seahawks will need to address their pass protection issues to keep quarterback Geno Smith upright and the offense humming.
Detroit Lions (2-1)
Despite a Week 3 victory, the Lions have struggled with red zone scoring, converting touchdowns on just 38.5% of their opportunities inside the 20-yard line. Amon-Ra St. Brown acknowledged the offense’s need to step up, especially after a game where they failed to find the end zone on multiple red zone drives.
6. Philadelphia Eagles (2-1)
Quarterback Jalen Hurts has been plagued by ball security issues, throwing interceptions and fumbling the ball multiple times in the first three games. With injuries mounting on offense, it is crucial for Hurts to limit his turnovers and make smarter decisions with the football.
7. Pittsburgh Steelers (3-0)
The Steelers have struggled with red zone scoring, finding the end zone on just 25% of their trips inside the 20-yard line. Despite finding success in other areas, the Steelers need to improve their efficiency in the red zone to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
8. Houston Texans (2-1)
The Texans’ offensive line has been a weak spot, failing to create running lanes and protect quarterback C.J. Stroud. With Stroud sacked 11 times in three games, the Texans need to address their pass protection issues to keep their quarterback upright and the offense moving.
9. San Francisco 49ers (1-2)
Known for their explosive plays and yards after the catch (YAC) in 2023, the 49ers have struggled to generate yards after the catch in the first three games of the season. Injuries to key playmakers like Deebo Samuel Sr., Christian McCaffrey, and George Kittle have hampered the offense’s ability to create big plays and forced them to rely on more methodical drives.
10. New Orleans Saints (2-1)
Injuries to center Erik McCoy and tight end Taysom Hill have impacted the Saints’ offense, leading to a decrease in offensive output in Week 3. McCoy’s absence, in particular, poses a significant challenge for the offensive line, while Hill’s injury further complicates the offensive game plan.
Green Bay Packers (2-1)
The Packers have struggled with penalties on offense, leading the league in total offensive penalties through three games. With a high number of offensive holding infractions and other penalties, the Packers need to clean up their discipline to avoid costly mistakes that can stall drives and hinder offensive production.
Baltimore Ravens (1-2)
Tight end Mark Andrews has had a slow start to the season, seeing limited targets and production in the passing game. The emergence of other offensive weapons and a run-heavy game plan have contributed to Andrews’ reduced role in the offense, highlighting the need for the Ravens to find ways to get him more involved moving forward.
As we continue to assess the strengths and weaknesses of each team in the NFL, it is clear that every squad faces unique challenges on the offensive side of the ball. From red zone inefficiencies to pass protection issues, these teams must address their shortcomings to stay competitive and make a push for the playoffs. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as the 2024 NFL season unfolds.
