2021 NFL power rankings, Week 1: Buccaneers still own the top spot

2021 NFL power rankings, Week 1: Buccaneers still own top spot

TAMPA, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 07: Tom Brady #12 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers hoists the Vince Lombardi Trophy after winning Super Bowl LV at Raymond James Stadium on February 07, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers defeated the Chiefs 31-9. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

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PITTSBURGH, PA – AUGUST 21: Najee Harris #22 of the Pittsburgh Steelers carries the ball in front of Jahlani Tavai #51 of the Detroit Lions during the first quarter at Heinz Field on August 21, 2021 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) /

. . Previous: . Los Angeles Chargers. 15. team. 13

The new man at the helm is Brandon Staley, who last season was calling the shots for a Los Angeles Rams’ defensive unit that allowed the fewest total yards in the league. The first-time NFL head coach has talented youngster Justin Herbert behind center.

The Chargers’ offseason priority was upgrading a substandard offensive line and the key additions were former Packers’ center Corey Linsley and first-round tackle Rashawn Slater.

32. . . Previous: . Arizona Cardinals. 14. team

The team in the desert added some big name talent this offseason in the form of defensive end J.J. Watt, wide receiver A.J. Green, kicker Matt Prater and center Rodney Hudson – the latter acquired be a trade from the Raiders.

Head coach Kliff Kingsbury and quarterback Kyler Murray are growing but the Cardinals need to erase the memory of last season’s late fade. Life for this team should be much different without legendary Larry Fitzgerald.

. . Previous: . Pittsburgh Steelers. 13. team. 55

From a franchise record 11-0 start to four losses in their final five regular-season games to a humbling home playoff loss to rival Cleveland. Mike Tomlin’s club saw its share of departures and retirements this offseason.

The offensive line has four new starters but the NFL’s worst running game in 2020 should be better via the addition of first-round running back Najee Harris. Resourceful Ben Roethlisberger returns, but will this be the final season?

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