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10 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Diego Pavia – Some Are Wild

Diego Pavia is one of the more interesting football players to emerge in recent years, as he has a polarizing, athletic, and brash playing style that helped him become a Heisman Trophy finalist in the 2025 season. Pavia has a “warrior’s mentality” from his upbringing to his dominance in college football, making him one of the most exciting athletes to emerge this generation. Pavia may have gone undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft, but his football career is far from over, as he’ll do whatever it takes to earn a spot on a roster, whether it’s with the Baltimore Ravens, who recently signed him, or another team that wants to take a chance on him.  Love him or hate him, Diego Pavia is here to stay, and here at TPS, we’re going to tell you some interesting facts about him you probably don’t know.  So sit back and relax, because here are 10 things you probably didn’t know about Diego Pavia. What are the top ten most intriguing facts about Diego Favia? Pavia was born and raised in New MexicoSep 1, 2022; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; New Mexico State Aggies quarterback Diego Pavia (10) warms up prior to the game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Huntington Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports Pavia was born and raised in New Mexico, aka “the Land of Enchantment,” and grew up in Albuquerque, the state’s largest city.  Pavia grew up with just his mother raising him and his two other brothers and one sister, and he described his life as if it were a real-life “Grand Theft Auto,” as Albuquerque’s South Valley can be a dangerous neighborhood.  Diego Pavia credits his mom, Antoniette Padilla, for instilling in him a “winner” mentality, as she’s a nurse who also worked multiple jobs. When Pavia was six, his mom lied about his age so he could play in a seven-year-old football league at the time.  Pavia was a three-sport athlete during his time at Volcano Vista High School, playing football, wrestling, and baseball.  Pavia’s family supported him and traveled to his games, and he expressed their sacrifices that allowed him to succeed in athletics.  Pavia Was a State Wrestling ChampionVanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia warms up during football pro day at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn., Friday, March 20, 2026. As we mentioned earlier, Diego Pavia played in three sports for Volcano Vista High School: football, baseball, and wrestling. Even though Pavia chose the football route after high school, his wrestling background is part of the reason why he’s been incredible on the field.  Pavia made the New Mexico State Finals three times as a wrestler and won one of those final appearances in 2020 in the 195-lb class.  Pavia had a partial scholarship offer from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, but he ultimately chose to pursue football rather than take his talents on the wrestling mat.   He spoke about the potential of wrestling at Nebraska to the Albuquerque Journal, saying, “That wasn’t where my heart was. I feel like if I had wrestled, then I would have fallen out of love with the sport.” So far, the football path has been a wild ride for Pavia, and the rest has been history.  No Division I offers while still in High SchoolVanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia throws the ball during football pro day at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn., Friday, March 20, 2026. During his time in high school, Diego Pavia didn’t receive any Division One offers from larger schools at the time due to scouts being concerned about his physical dimensions and his origin in a lower recruiting region. Pavia led his high school to an undefeated regular season with an 11-0 record during his senior year. Recruiters were scared of his traditional talents, his size, as he was measured at 5’10” and 172 pounds. Pavia received scholarship offers from two Division II schools: the Western Colorado Mountaineers and the Western New Mexico Mustangs. On top of that, the state of New Mexico receives less attention than other states when it comes to recruiting football players to play college football. Began his collegiate career at the New Mexico Military InstituteDiego Pavia speaks to media outlets during New Mexico State football media day on Wednesday, July 27, 2022. Nmsu Football Media Day Instead of accepting offers to play college football from Western Colorado and Western New Mexico, Pavia began his college football career at the New Mexico Military Institute, a public military junior college in Roswell, New Mexico. Students attending the New Mexico Military Institute wake up early, lining up for room inspections and marching to breakfast in full uniform. Pavia thrived on the field for the New Mexico Military Institute Broncos, as he completed 68 passes for 916 yards and threw 10 touchdowns against three interceptions in his first year. Pavia’s second year was truly spectacular, as he completed 121 passes for 1,728 yards and threw 21 touchdowns against one interception. Oh, and Pavia led the Broncos to the NJCAA National Football Championship against Iowa Western, winning 31-13. He threw two touchdown passes and scored a rushing touchdown during the game. New Mexico State’s head coach, Jerry Kill, and offensive coordinator Tim Beck watched the game from a Hooters, with the intention of offering Iowa Western’s Nate Glantz a scholarship, but immediately changed their minds when they saw Pavia’s performance in the game. After that performance, Pavia took his talents to Las Cruces and began playing for the New Mexico State Aggies for the 2022 season. Established Himself as a Starter at New Mexico StateNov 18, 2023; Auburn, Alabama, USA; New Mexico State Aggies quarterback Diego Pavia (10) takes a selfie with fans after defeating the Auburn Tigers at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports Diego Pavia’s time at New Mexico State wasn’t easy, as he struggled in his early days with the Aggies. He was also in and out of the lineup with other quarterbacks, including Gavin Frakes. In his first game with the Aggies, Pavia threw three interceptions in a 23-12 loss against the Nevada Wolf Pack and was benched. Pavia also had a chance to tie the team’s week three matchup against the University of Texas-El Paso Roadrunners, but was strip-sacked with three seconds left in the game.  However, by the time the Aggies squared off against Liberty, Pavia was able to turn his bad luck around and completed 16 passes for 214 yards, threw three touchdowns against no interceptions, rushed for 125 yards on 20 carries, and scored three rushing touchdowns, helping the Aggies earn a 49-14 win over the Liberty Flames. Oh, and the Aggies were 24.5-point underdogs in the game. The Aggies finished the year with a 7-6 record and went on to win the Quick Lane Bowl 24-19 against Bowling Green. Pavia threw two touchdowns and an interception in the victory. Pavia pressed the gas pedal further in the 2023 season, as he completed 221 passes for 2,973 yards, threw 26 touchdowns against nine interceptions, and led the Aggies to their first 10-win season since 1960.  The game in which Pavia shone the most that year was the Aggies’ clash against the Auburn Tigers on the road, where they won 31-10, and he threw three touchdowns in the victory.  However, Pavia’s success saw some controversy, as a video surfaced of him taking a leak on the New Mexico Lobos’ logo after defeating them 27-17. Pavia was never publicly punished for his actions.  Became an Instant Legend at VanderbiltAug 31, 2024; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Diego Pavia (2) celebrates the win against the Virginia Tech Hokies during the second half at FirstBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-USA TODAY Sports Diego Pavia entered the transfer portal originally about to play for the Nevada Wolf Pack. However, New Mexico State’s offensive coordinator, Jerry Kill, was hired to be Vanderbilt’s offensive coordinator, called him a few minutes later, expecting him to be in Nashville for the 2024 season. Pavia immediately flipped his commitment from Nevada to Vanderbilt.  Pavia won the starting quarterback job over guys like Drew Dickley and Nate Johnson for the 2024 season. The Vanderbilt Commodores weren’t really known as an SEC powerhouse before Pavia’s arrival, since they were essentially a doormat for other SEC teams to bully. Once Pavia started his first game, things immediately changed for the Commodores, opening up the season with two nice wins against Virginia Tech and Alcorn State. However, the most impressive game Pavia played in the 2024 season was the Alabama game, as he led the Commodores to a 40-35 upset win over the one-seeded Alabama Crimson Tide. Pavia completed 16 passes for 252 yards, threw two touchdowns against no interceptions, and rushed for 56 yards on 20 carries in the upset victory. Pavia led the Commodores to a 7-6 record and helped them win the Birmingham Bowl 35-27 against Georgia Tech. The 2025 season saw the Commodores earn a 10-3 record, as Pavia led the team to the ReliaQuest Bowl, but lost a tough 34-27 battle against the Iowa Hawkeyes. Pavia had a 70.6 completion percentage in 2025, completed 267 passes for 3,539 yards, and threw 29 touchdowns against eight interceptions during his final season at Vanderbilt. Pavia was also a Heisman Trophy finalist before losing it to Fernando Mendoza.  Sued the NCAA During the 2024 season, Diego Pavia filed an antitrust suit against the NCAA, challenging the rules to count junior college players towards four-year NCAA eligibility.  Pavia and his attorneys argued that counting junior college seasons as NCAA seasons violates the Sherman Antitrust Act, restricting players’ abilities to compete and earn Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) money at the highest collegiate level.  A federal judge in Tennessee granted Pavia a preliminary injunction that allowed him to play during the 2025 season, resulting in a broader NCAA blanket waiver for other JUCO transfers wanting that four-year eligibility at the next level.  Even though Pavia entered the 2026 NFL Draft, he continued the lawsuit as a class action suit with 26 other plaintiffs, hoping to help other former JUCO players earn the same rights.  We hope Pavia and the 26 other plaintiffs are successful in court and help out other former JUCO players for the better. Comparisons to Johnny ManzielFeb 28, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia (QB14) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Pavia’s performance on the field has been compared to Johnny Manziel’s at Texas A&M, as they both have a “magic-maker” style.  Both quarterbacks became household names by orchestrating massive upsets against the Alabama Crimson Tide during their time in college. Both Manziel and Pavia are undersized dual-threat quarterbacks who made plays with their legs, off-script scrambles, and high-risk throws. Off the field, Pavia has had his fair share of controversies similar to Manziel, as a video surfaced of him peeing on the New Mexico Lobos’ logo in their practice facility in 2023, as we mentioned earlier. During a game against LSU, Pavia even mimicked Johnny Manziel’s money gesture combined with a Heisman pose.  Pavia has also been criticized for poor sports behavior, for posting “F— the voters,” and also partying at a nightclub in New York City and posting a sign that read, “F— Indiana,” as a dig against the Indiana Hoosiers and Fernando Mendoza, who won the 2025 Heisman Trophy. Moves like that were similar to Manziel’s. However, Pavia apologized for his trashy messages towards Fernando Mendoza and the Hoosiers, but the damage was done with some football fans.  Manziel has been a mentor to Pavia and wants him to succeed and avoid making the same mistakes he made when he first entered the NFL in 2014.  Pavia also said he and Manziel are friends, that the former 2012 Heisman Trophy winner has met his family, and that Manziel is a great person for those who don’t know, per The Athletic. The first Heisman Finalist to go Undrafted since 2014Dec 31, 2025; Tampa, FL, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Diego Pavia (2) throws a pass against the Iowa Hawkeyes in the first quarter during the ReliaQuest Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images After the 2025 college football season, Pavia declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, but went undrafted, despite being a Heisman Trophy Finalist and winning the SEC Player of the Year award. Pavia was listed at 6-feet, but he measured under 5’10” and weighed 198 pounds at pre-draft events. Some NFL Scouts expressed their concern with Pavia’s arm strength and the speed that’s required by shorter quarterbacks. Scouts also expressed concerns about Pavia’s off-the-field persona, as it wouldn’t fly in the league, prompting teams to question whether to make him the face of their respective franchises. Former NFL safety Tyrann Mathieu said on a podcast that Pavia is too busy being a celebrity instead of focusing on football.  Just three days after the NFL Draft concluded, Pavia signed a three-year contract with the Baltimore Ravens, joining a roster that already has Lamar Jackson as their starter and Tyler Huntley as the backup.  Pavia will have to compete for his roster spot before the regular season begins.  Pavia has an Underdog MentalityFeb 27, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia (QB14) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images Throughout his football journey, Diego Pavia has always had an underdog mentality for being overlooked for most of his football career. Pavia was a zero-star recruit out of high school before deciding to take his talent to the New Mexico Military Institute instead of going to Division II colleges, winning the NJCAA Championship in 2021. After Pavia transferred to New Mexico State, scouts doubted his height and viewed him as a pawn that would attract higher-rated talent. On top of that, Pavia has used the underdog mentality to turn college teams he played for, New Mexico State and Vanderbilt, into serious winners. New Mexico State was an afterthought before Pavia arrived on campus, and Vanderbilt was a punching bag for stronger SEC teams before Pavia transferred there in 2024. If Pavia earns a spot on the Baltimore Ravens’ roster or another roster in the 2026 season, he’ll continue to use his underdog mentality to get a starting position in the near future.  In conclusion, we hope to see Pavia lead an NFL team to success when or if he becomes a starter. 

Read more10 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Diego Pavia – Some Are Wild

2026 NFL Power Rankings After The Draft — Too Early Or Already Obvious?

With the 2026 NFL Draft in the books and each team’s roster practically set ahead of training camp, it’s time to see how all 32 clubs stack up against one another. With that, let’s dive into our post-draft 2026 NFL power rankings. Which teams soared in the power rankings after the 2026 NFL Draft? 32. Arizona CardinalsJan 5, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of an Arizona Cardinals helmet at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Decide among yourselves if Jeremiyah Love was the right pick for the Cardinals at No. 3 overall. Even if he lives up to his sky-high ceiling, the Cardinals aren’t going anywhere without a quarterback. Looks like they’ll have Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew II duke it out. On the bright side, the Redbirds are already in a good spot to get Arch Manning or Dante Moore next year. 31. Las Vegas RaidersAug 23, 2024; Paradise, Nevada, USA; A Las Vegas Raiders Riddell speedflex helmet on the field at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports The Raiders used the No. 1 pick on Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, immediately bringing new long-term hope to Sin City. Of course, he’ll likely begin his career on the bench in favor of Kirk Cousins. Vegas also got excellent value in round four at 101, selecting Tennessee corner Jermod McCoy, who slipped because of health concerns. This rebuild is a significant work in progress, but the Raiders actually appear to be on the right track, at least in the NFL power rankings. For once. 30. Miami DolphinsAug 3, 2022; Miami Gardens, Florida, US; A general view of a Miami Dolphins helmet on the field during training camp at Baptist Health Training Complex. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports Tua Tagovailoa, Jaylen Waddle, and Tyreek Hill are out. Malik Willis, Jalen Tolbert, and Chris Bell are…in? Yeah, it’s a major downgrade for now. The 2026 Dolphins are clearly tanking, and understandably so. Rookie GM Jon-Eric Sullivan reached with both his day-one picks, selecting Alabama offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor and San Diego State corner Chris Johnson. Both are long-term projects and not necessarily plug-and-play Day 1 starters. Brace yourselves, Dolphins fans. It’s shaping up to be a very long year. 29. New York JetsAug 17, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; New York Jets helmets during the second half against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports The Jets came away with three potential franchise cornerstones in the first round of the draft, snagging Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey, Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq, and Indiana wideout Omar Cooper Jr. Like the Raiders, the rebuild is on a promising track. And as mean as it sounds, having Geno Smith as the QB1 means the Jets are fully planning to tank for a quarterback in next year’s draft. For 2026, the focus is on developing the young guys and seeing if Aaron Glenn really is the right man for the job. 28. Cleveland BrownsNov 17, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Detailed view of the Cleveland Browns helmets on a time out against the New Orleans Saints during the first half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images The Browns had an excellent draft, coming away with Utah offensive tackle Spencer Fano and a pair of dazzling wide receiver prospects in Texas A&M’s KC Concepcion and Washington’s Denzel Boston. The problem is, the Browns still don’t have a QB solution. We’re not sold on Shedeur Sanders at this time. Dillon Gabriel isn’t it. And we’re as surprised as you that Deshaun Watson is still on the roster. There’s a lot to like about the young core on both sides of the ball. But the Browns will be picking in the top-10 again next year if they don’t figure out this QB conundrum under first-year head coach Todd Monken. As for now, this is where they stand in the NFL power rankings. 27. Tennessee TitansAug 25, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Detailed view of the Tennessee Titans helmet against the New Orleans Saints during the first half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports The Titans achieved their main offseason goal of fixing Cam Ward’s supporting cast. Though Wan’Dale Robinson was an overpay in free agency, the super-speedster can only help a passing game that was non-existent a year ago. Tennessee used the No. 4 pick on Ohio State wideout Carnell Tate, giving Ward a bona fide No. 1 receiver. They also bolstered their front seven with the Keldric Faulk and Anthony Hill Jr. selections. Two great value picks there. Tennessee won’t be a playoff team in 2026, but the group looks a lot stronger now under Robert Saleh compared to a year ago under Brian Callahan. 26. Washington CommandersSep 29, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Washington Commanders helmet at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Washington addressed a pressing need by selecting Sonny Styles with its top pick. He headlines a group of newcomers on defense that includes Odafe Oweh, Leo Chenal, Tim Settle, and Amik Robertson. Of course, Washington will only go as far as a healthy Jayden Daniels will take him. If he’s healthy, they’ll compete. If not, it’ll be another lost season in DC. Fingers crossed, Commanders fans. 25. New Orleans SaintsDec 23, 2024; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; General view of a New Orleans Saints helmet during the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images The Saints made Tyler Shough and Chris Olave very happy men when they took Arizona State wideout Jordyn Tyson with the No. 8 pick. With Travis Etienne Jr. and Alvin Kamara sharing the backfield, Kellen Moore’s offense has sky-high potential. But will the new-look defense be enough to help New Orleans compete in the wide-open NFC South? Or what about their spot in the NFL power rankings? Stay tuned. 24. New York GiantsGeneral view of a New York Giants helmet (Rich Barnes-Imagn Images) On paper, at least, the Giants look like the biggest 2026 offseason winners. They got themselves a future Hall of Famer at head coach in John Harbaugh. They got Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese and Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa with their two first-round picks. More great value was found with the Colton Hood pick at No. 37 overall. New York has fixed up the terrible o-line in front of Jaxson Dart, who welcomes Coach Harbaugh and healthy versions of Malik Nabers and Cam Skattebo for 2026. We don’t wanna get too carried away here, but the G-Men already have the makings of a sleeper playoff contender. 23. Atlanta FalconsAtlanta Falcons helmet (Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images) The trade-up for James Pearce Jr. a year ago left Atlanta without a 2026 first-round pick. But they found good value with Clemso cornerback Aveion Terrell at No. 48, reuniting him with his older brother, AJ Terrell. With the No. 79 selection, Atlanta brought in local Georgia product Zachariah Branch. If new head coach Kevin Stefanski can unlock either Michael Penix Jr. OR newcomer Tua Tagovailoa, the Falcons can totally make a run at the NFC South crown. 22. Minnesota VikingsJan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Detailed view of a Minnesota Vikings helmet during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Vikings’ biggest offseason move was signing Kyler Murray, who could easily unseat JJ McCarthy as the starting quarterback. After releasing veteran defensive tackles Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen, Minny reached big-time for Florida DT Caleb Banks at No. 18. We would have liked more from the Vikings’ brass this offseason, but we suppose they achieved their main objective: bringing in competition for McCarthy. 21. Tampa Bay BuccaneersNov 4, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of Tampa Bay Buccaneers helmets against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images Widely projected to be a top-10 pick, Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. wound up falling to the Bucs at No. 15. They continued adding to the front seven in round two, selecting Missouri linebacker Josiah Trotter. The main question, though, is whether the Bucs can withstand the departure of franchise icon Mike Evans. They’ll need a healthy Chris Godwin and a big second year from Emeka Egbuka. Otherwise, the NFC South will stay out of their hands. 20. Indianapolis ColtsDec 1, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; An Indianapolis Colts helmet sits on an equipment case during the first half against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images GM Chris Ballard extended Alec Pierce and Daniel Jones, keeping most of the core together.  However, veteran wideout Michael Pittman Jr. had to be moved to Pittsburgh to clear cap space. They also lost standout edge rusher Kwity Paye and offensive lineman Braden Smith in free agency. Indy didn’t have a first-round pick this year, but they got a steal in Georgia linebacker CJ Allen at 53.  Indy lost more talent than it gained this offseason, thus its low spot in the NFL power rankings. But as we saw last year, they can win the AFC South with a healthy Daniel Jones. They just have to hope last season wasn’t a mirage, and that he’s the latest feel-good QB late bloomer success story. 19. Carolina PanthersCarolina Panthers helmet (Photo By Eric Hartline-Imagn Images) The Panthers had one of the best drafts, assuring their status as the team to beat in the NFC South. Georgia tackle Monroe Freeling fell into their laps at 19. They added another menacing defensive lineman, Texas Tech’s Lee Hunter, at 49. Great value was found with Tennessee wideout Chris Brazzell II at No. 83, too. With a better supporting cast in front of him, it’s time for Bryce Young to reach superstar status. 18. Pittsburgh SteelersSteelers helmet (Photo via Eric Hartline-Imagn Images) Even IF Aaron Rodgers returns to Pittsburgh, it’s hard to see how the Steelers maintain their hold on the AFC North.  Yes, the offense added Rico Dowdle, Michael Pittman Jr., and promising Alabama rookie Germie Bernard. But the o-line is still a question mark, and taking Max Ih eanachor at 21 felt like a massive reach. The defense is no longer in the tier of “elite”, which means more pressure on Rodgers or Mason ‘freaking’ Rudolph. Mike Tomlin may be gone, but Mike McCarthy merely inherits a mushy middle team whose ceiling is a one-and-done playoff team. 17. Cincinnati BengalsDec 1, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; A general view of the helmet of Cincinnati Bengals long snapper Cal Adomitis (48) during warmups before the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images After trading the No. 10 pick for ex-Giants star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, the Bengals didn’t have a pick until the top-40. Still, they got day-one value by landing Texas A&M Cashius Howell with the 41st pick. There’s a lot to like about this defense now in the post-Trey Hendrickson era. We know Joe Burrow and the offense will keep Cincy in playoff contention. But can the rebuilt D improve enough to close the gap in the crowded AFC? Or can they improve their standing in the NFL power rankings next season? 16. Los Angeles ChargersAug 12, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers helmets on the bench at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports True to form, Jim Harbaugh’s team prioritized the trenches early. They used their first two picks on Miami linebacker Akheem Mesidor and Florida center Jake Slaughter, with Memphis tackle Travis Burke getting picked up in round four. We know the Bolts are good enough to win in the regular season. Can Justin Herbert get them back to the postseason and finally pick up his first playoff win? That’s the million-dollar question. 15. Dallas CowboysDallas Cowboys helmet (Kirby Lee-Imagn Images) Say what you want about Jerry Jones, but it’s hard to hate his work as the GM this offseason. After adding Jalen Thompson in free agency and Rashan Gary via trade, he nabbed Ohio State safety Caleb Downs with the No. 11 pick. UCF defensive end Malachi Lawrence was a reach at 23, but he at least brings more depth to the position of need. Jones also kept the offense together by retaining Javonte Williams and George Pickens. If it all comes together, Dallas could reclaim the NFC East throne. Bottom line: They’re a lot deeper now than last year. 14. Green Bay PackersJan 12, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Green Bay Packers helmet on the sidelines against the Philadelphia Eagles in an NFC wild card game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images The Micah Parsons trade left the Packers without a first-round pick. They used their first three selections on defense, grabbing South Carolina corner Brandon Cisse, Missouri defensive tackle Chris McLellan, and Penn State edge rusher Dani Dennis-Sutton. Not sure if any of those guys will start, but the Pack needs some contributions from the youngsters. They lost more quality starters in Elgotn Jenkins, Quay Walker, Romeo Doubs, and Rasheed Walker in free agency. Right now, it’s hard to think the Packers are any better than last year’s group that went one-and-done as the No. 7 seed. 13. Detroit LionsHelmet of Detroit Lions place kicker Jake Bates (not in the photo) before the NFC divisional round between Detroit Lions and Washington Commanders] at Ford Field in Detroit on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. After using the No. 17 pick on Clemson tackle Blake Miller to replace Taylor Decker, the Lions loaded up on D. Their next three picks were Michigan’s defensive end Derrick Moore, Michigan linebacker Jimmy Rolder, and Arizona State corner Keith Abney II. Of course, the Lions’ hopes of returning to the postseason rest on better health luck. If it’s on their side, they will re-enter the Super Bowl contention field. 12. Baltimore RavensBaltimore Ravens helmet (Photo via Geoff Burke-Imagn Images) The Ravens did a good job pivoting away from the nixed Maxx Crosby trade, signing the top free agent pass-rusher in Trey Hendrickson. The pass rush was further bolstered by the selection of Missouri’s Zion Young in round two, keeping in mind that many had him going in the first round. Lamar Jackson had to be happy when the Ravens landed the best interior linemen in this draft, Penn State’s Olaivavega Ioane, at No. 14. Add it all up, and Baltimore is unquestionably the team to beat in the AFC North going into 2026. 11. Philadelphia EaglesFeb 9, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; Detailed view of a Philadelphia Eagles helmet during Super Bowl LIX at Ceasars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Presumably, trading up for Makai Lemon was the first big move for the Eagles at wideout. Now, we wait for the reported looming trade that will send AJ Brown to the Patriots. Eagles GM Howie Roseman hasn’t changed his roster too much, and rightfully so. This team won the Super Bowl 15 months ago. They just have to hope the changes on Nick Sirianni’s staff will net positive results. 10. Chicago BearsNov 3, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Chicago Bears helmet at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Defense was the problem last year, so GM Ryan Poles went to work on fixing it. Coby Bryant and Neville Gallimore were added in free agency. Then they used their first-round pick on Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman, who adds more talent to a secondary already featuring Kyler Gordon and Tyrique Stevenson. A top ten spot in the NFL power rankings is just right, for now. 9. Houston TexansAug 9, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; A Houston Texans helmet sits on the sidelines during the 4th quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-USA TODAY Sports We all know who the Texans are. Owners of the NFL’s best defense, and a shaky quarterback. Will the real CJ Stroud please stand up? After signing Braden Smith and Wyatt Teller to bolster their o-line, Houston used their first-round pick on Georgia Tech product Keylan Rutledge. It felt like a mega reach, but Houston had an issue there. We’ll see if the o-line makeover finally helps Stroud regain that MVP-like form we saw in 2023. 8. Jacksonville JaguarsNov 3, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars helmets on the sidelines against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images Because of the Travis Hunter trade, the Jags didn’t pick until the 56th spot this year. That pick was used on Texas A&M tight end Nate Boerkircher, adding another much-needed weapon for Trevor Lawrence. Liam Coen led the Jags to 13 wins and a surprise AFC South division crown in year one. The hard part? Repeating that success. The talent is there. Now he’s gotta show it wasn’t a fluke. 7. San Francisco 49ersSan Francisco 49ers helmet (Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images) After trading out of round one, the 49ers reached big time for Ole Miss wideout De’Zhaun Stribling at No. 33, since they already signed Mike Evans in free agency.  But hey, another receiver doesn’t hurt with Brandon Aiyuk on his way out. The 49ers reached the elite eight last year despite an onslaught of injuries, so GM John Lynch didn’t tink with his roster too much. With better health luck, the 49ers figure to be in the Super Bowl race. 6. Kansas City ChiefsFeb 9, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; Detailed view of a Kansas City Chiefs helmet in Super Bowl LIX at Ceasars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Everything that could go wrong did go wrong for Kansas City last year. Sorry haters, but a healthy Patrick Mahomes will be enough to put them back in the mix in 2026. And beyond. After trading Trent McDuffie to the Rams, KC moved up to the No. 6 spot to take LSU’s Mansoor Delane. There’s your replacement. You can relax now, Chiefs fans. Just pray there’s better health luck and your team will be just fine. 5. Buffalo BillsJan 26, 2025; Kansas City, MO, USA; A detailed view of the Buffalo Bills helmet before the AFC Championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images Buffalo addressed its main weakness by landing star wideout DJ Moore in a trade with the Bears. They traded out of the first round but still got a quality player at No. 35 in Clemson defensive end TJ Parker. We all know the Bills always have a chance with Josh Allen. The only question is if Joe Brady is the fresh voice this team needed, or if firing Sean McDermott will go down as an all-time mistake. 4. New England PatriotsPatriots Helmet (Photo By Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports) It was hard to focus on the draft from New England’s side because of the Mike Vrabel-Dianna Russini scandal. What can we say? The whole thing is just weird and cringeworthy. In case you missed it, the defending AFC champs got great value with Utah tackle Caleb Lomu falling to them at No. 28. Second-round pick Gabe Jacas from Illinois should solidify the pass rush, too. With practically the same core from 2025 returning, the Pats figure to be in the mix for Super Bowl 60. We just don’t know whether Russini will be cheering from the sidelines. K fine, we’ll stop. 3. Denver BroncosOct 12, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of a Denver Broncos helmet against the Kansas City Chiefs prior to a game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports The Broncos only had one pick in the top 100, using the No. 66 selection on Texas A&M defensive tackle Tyler Onyedim. GM George Paton, of course, gave up his first-round pick to land Miami Dolphins star wideout Jaylen Waddle. Not much roster tinkering was needed in Denver. If Bo Nix were healthy, the Broncos would have won the AFC Championship…and potentially Super Bowl 60. This is a championship-caliber roster, and a healthy Nix makes them the team to beat in the AFC. 2. Los Angeles RamsJan 19, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Los Angeles Rams helmet on the sidelines against the Philadelphia Eagles in a 2025 NFC divisional round game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images Everyone was surprised when the Rams took Alabama QB Ty Simpson at No. 13 overall. The confusion is warranted, but we suppose it’s a risk the Rams could afford. They shored up their last remaining weakness at cornerback by trading for Trent McDuffie and signing Jaylen Watson. The Rams were this-close to reaching the Super Bowl last season. They’re neck-and-neck with every other NFL heavyweight, especially in the power rankings. It’s just about getting a few extra bounces in the postseason. 1. Seattle SeahawksDec 8, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Seattle Seahawks helmet at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Seattle took Jeremiyah Love’s former Notre Dame backup, Jadarian Price, with its first-round pick. After that, they attacked the secondary by taking TCU safety Bud Clark and Arkansas corner Bud Neal. The defending champs hope that they can replace the championship DNA that Kenneth Walker, Coby Bryant, and Riq Woolen left behind. With most of the core from Super Bowl 60 still intact, the ‘Hawks remain No. 1.

Read more2026 NFL Power Rankings After The Draft — Too Early Or Already Obvious?