Packers land in top 10 of NFL Week 1 power rankings

16. San Francisco 49ers

Entering his first full season with the 49ers, there is plenty of excitement about Jimmy Garoppolo. But San Francisco has now lost starting running back Jerrick McKinnon for the season, and faces a brutal schedule. Inside the first six weeks of the season, the 49ers face road games against the Vikings, Chiefs, Chargers and Packers.

15. Detroit Lions

When healthy, the Lions’ offensive line could be one of the best in football. That’s a credit to general manager Bob Quinn and the work he has put in over the past couple of years. Detroit’s lack of a pass rush will be an issue that could prevent them from taking the next step. The Lions will have another solid season, but it might not be enough to make the playoffs.

14. Chicago Bears

The biggest risers in the power rankings are the Chicago Bears. After an already strong offseason that saw the likes of Allen Robinson and Trey Burton arrive via free agency, the Bears fixed one of their biggest needs by trading for star edge rusher Khalil Mack. Mack, along with rookie linebacker Roquan Smith, could make this defense very, very strong.

13. Kansas City Chiefs

Second-year quarterback Patrick Mahomes has no shortage of talent around him. From Kareem Hunt to Travis Kelce and Tyreek Hill and Sammy Watkins, this offense will be exciting to watch. Defense is the major concern for the Chiefs, and is what will likely prevent them from going far in the playoffs.