NFL power rankings: Post-draft edition

16. Carolina Panthers

The Panthers have made the playoffs two straight years, but don’t feel elite by any stretch. The defense is led by quality players in Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis, but the offense is sub-par. Cam Newton has to step up.

15. Pittsburgh Steelers

With Ben Roethlisberger, Le’Veon Bell and Antonio Brown, the offensive side of the ball is fine. However, the defense might be the worst in football. This is going to be a high-scoring year in Pittsburgh.

14. San Diego Chargers

The Chargers are an odd team. The offense is scary, but the front seven is simply horrific. San Diego can’t generate a pass-rush and some of the offensive playmakers are older. Feels like an 8-8 team.

13. St. Louis Rams

With Nick Foles, St. Louis could be a very good team. The Rams have a first-rate defense, and Jeff Fisher is a coach who has been to the Super Bowl. Foles and rookie Todd Gurley are the keys to their success.

12. Miami Dolphins

Ryan Tannehill reminds me a lot of Alex Smith. He won’t win games by himself, but Tannehill will keep you in games. This roster should be able to put Miami in the playoff chase.

Dec 28, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) throws a pass in the second half at Sun Life Stadium. The Jets defeated Miami 37-24. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports

11. New York Giants

If Ereck Flowers plays well, and Victor Cruz stays healthy, the offense is top-notch. Tom Coughlin is one of the best coaches in the league, so I’m putting my faith in him to get the job done.

10. Cincinnati Bengals

As all of you will learn throughout the season, I’m not a fan of Marvin Lewis or Andy Dalton. That said, four straight playoff appearances speaks for itself.

9. Arizona Cardinals

I’m not sold Carson Palmer is particularly good or that he can last 16 games, but the Cardinals have a tough defense and a great coach. Expect Arizona back in the postseason.

Next: The elite eight