NFL Power Rankings Before Free Agency: Can Eagles remain atop NFC?

Here’s a look at four teams that appear to be playoff ready, but don’t count those chickens before they hatch.

Here’s a look at four teams on the rise, but again, no one would be surprised if these teams made the postseason or failed to qualify.

12. Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers didn’t make the postseason, but Mike Tomlin put together another fine coaching performance, leading his team to another winning record.

If Kenny Pickett can pull off a Jalen Hurts in his sophomore campaign, Pittsburgh could surprise some people.

11. Detroit Lions

We honestly wanted to rank the Lions higher. We love the direction this team is headed in, and we loved how they closed the season. Still, placing them ahead of Minnesota in the AFC North seems like a bit of a stretch, right?

10. Baltimore Ravens

Regardless of what happens with Lamar Jackson, the Baltimore Ravens have proven that they can win games without him. Sure, they’re better with their former MVP on the field, but we believe more in their chances of making the postseason than we believe in the Cleveland Browns or Pittsburgh Steelers. At least, that’s how we feel right now.

9. Minnesota Vikings

There has to be no more frustrating feeling than winning 13 games and knowing that you still aren’t good enough to be considered elite. The New York Giants, the NFC East’s third-best team, walked into U.S. Bank Stadium and handed the Vikes a humbling defeat. We have no issue with stating Minnesota is still the best team in the AFC North now.