The winds of change are blowing again in the NFC entering Week 9 of the 2026 season.
It’s expected to be one of the most competitive years we’ve had in recent memory across the NFL overall, but the race to the top of the NFC is going to a picture finish. And so far, it’s been an absolute treat after another week after week.
Heading into an important week of action in Week 9, our latest NFL Power Rankings take a look at the NFC as a whole, ranking each team from worst to best based on everything we’ve seen so far this season, and what big changes have been made this week.
NFL Power Rankings, Week 9: The Bears rise to the top of the latest NFC rankings
16. Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles are an abject disaster at this point.
The Jalen Hurts situation is bad enough, but with Hurts out, the Eagles benched backup QB Tanner McKee in favor of Joe Milton, who was removed from the Cowboys’ practice squad.
It’s been a rough start to the season for the Eagles, who were dismantled by Jayden Daniels and the Commanders on Sunday Night Football. Now, they host the New York Giants on Sunday, and the Giants are coming.
To keep things positive, there is at least a glimmer of hope and the rise of Joe Milton at the quarterback position. Regardless of his previous roster status, Milton may have the strongest arm in the NFL. He also has the ability to make plays with his legs, so there’s at least some intrigue heading into that Sunday matchup against the Giants.
15. New Orleans Saints
As a huge New Orleans Saints supporter going into this season, it’s disappointing to find them here after 7 games to open the year.
But the Saints have a bye, they’re getting some reinforcements (maybe an appearance from top pick Jordyn Tyson), and there’s a lot of football left to play. The NFC South has been bad again this year, so the Saints are just one game back in the win column from everyone in that division right now.
They host the Cleveland Browns in Week 9, and with an 0-4 record at home this season, I think we will finally see the Saints get one in front of the home crowd and maybe there will be renewed hope for this team. It’s not over for them, even at 2-5.
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