NFL power rankings: Vikings, Eagles fight for top spot

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - DECEMBER 17: Minnesota Vikings cornerback Xavier Rhodes (29) ,Minnesota Vikings cornerback Terence Newman (23), and Minnesota Vikings linebacker Eric Kendricks (54) take a breather during a NFL game between the Minnesota Vikings and Cincinnati Bengals on December 17, 2017 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, MN.The Vikings defeated the Bengals 34-7.(Photo by Nick Wosika/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - DECEMBER 17: Minnesota Vikings cornerback Xavier Rhodes (29) ,Minnesota Vikings cornerback Terence Newman (23), and Minnesota Vikings linebacker Eric Kendricks (54) take a breather during a NFL game between the Minnesota Vikings and Cincinnati Bengals on December 17, 2017 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, MN.The Vikings defeated the Bengals 34-7.(Photo by Nick Wosika/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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30. New York Jets

The Jets did exactly what the Cardinals couldn’t do. After missing out on the Kirk Cousins sweepstakes, they took the logical approach to re-sign a proven veteran in Josh McCown and sign Teddy Bridgewater to a one-year deal. On top of that, they traded up to the No. 3 pick and without forking over a future first-round pick. That could prove to be a steal if Mike Maccagnan can truly find a franchise quarterback.

The free agent signings weren’t limited under center. An already emerging defense picked up two fantastic additions in cornerback Trumaine Johnson and inside linebacker Avery Williamson. Re-signing Mo Claiborne completes a secondary with two young stars in Jamal Adams and Marcus Maye.

It’s safe to say the Jets were quiet winners in the free agency period. They spent money wisely in a seller’s market and really didn’t go over-the-top with any signings. The results have still yet be seen on the field but this is a team looking to make some noise heading into Todd Bowles’ third year.

The Jets were thought to be the laughing stock of the NFL last season but far exceeded expectations. They proved to be a tough out and teams won’t be surprised this season when they show up on the schedule. They’re still in the bottom-tier of the league but are close to breaking out with the right additions.