Week 2 NFL Power Rankings Highlight Standout Non-QB Newcomers

September 9, 2025 — ESPN.com

With Week 1 in the books, ESPN has released its updated NFL Power Rankings for Week 2, offering an early snapshot of how all 32 teams are positioned as the season gains momentum. While quarterback play usually dominates headlines, this week’s edition shines a spotlight on a different group of impact players: the top newcomers at each team who aren’t quarterbacks.

From rookies to veteran acquisitions, several names have already carved out critical roles, proving that offseason moves and draft gambles are paying dividends across the league.

Power Rankings Take Shape

At the top of the rankings, the Buffalo Bills leap into the No. 1 spot after their historic comeback win against the Baltimore Ravens. Anchored by Josh Allen’s brilliance, Buffalo’s rise was also powered by rookie wideout Keon Coleman, who hauled in a pair of clutch fourth-quarter receptions that kept drives alive in the epic 41–40 thriller.

Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs hover near the top despite injuries and early struggles, with both franchises showcasing the importance of depth beyond the quarterback position.

Spotlight on Standout Newcomers

What separates ESPN’s Week 2 rankings from a simple list is its focus on newcomers outside the quarterback position. For many franchises, these players could be the difference between playoff contention and mediocrity. Here are a few highlights:

Green Bay Packers: Micah Parsons (DE)
The Packers’ blockbuster offseason trade immediately paid off. Parsons was a nightmare for Detroit in his debut, recording a sack and several pressures in a 27–13 victory. His presence has already shifted Green Bay’s defensive identity.

Las Vegas Raiders: Brock Bowers (TE)
Despite leaving Sunday’s game with a knee issue, Bowers torched New England before his exit, catching five passes for 103 yards. The Raiders’ power ranking jump reflects the spark their first-round pick has provided.

Indianapolis Colts: Daniel Jones (QB) – Not Listed
While Jones stole headlines with a historic debut, ESPN’s criteria excluded quarterbacks. Instead, kicker Spencer Shrader received the nod, with his four field goals solidifying Indy’s 33–8 demolition of Miami.

Chicago Bears: Rome Odunze (WR)
The rookie receiver showcased chemistry with Caleb Williams, tallying 92 receiving yards in the opener. Even in a loss, Odunze gave Chicago fans reason for optimism.

Washington Commanders: Deebo Samuel (WR)
Acquired in a bold offseason move, Samuel instantly paid dividends with a two-touchdown performance. His versatility in Ben Johnson’s offense was critical to Washington’s Week 1 win.

The Bills and Packers emerged as the week’s biggest risers, fueled by standout debuts from newcomers like Coleman and Parsons. On the other hand, the New York Giants slid down the board after Russell Wilson’s struggles and internal sideline tensions, with rookie RB Tyrone Tracy Jr. being one of the few bright spots.

The Baltimore Ravens, despite their heartbreaking collapse, remain inside the top 10 thanks to rookie pass rusher Adisa Isaac, who provided energy off the edge.

By focusing on non-QB additions, ESPN’s analysis underscores a broader truth: football is won in the margins, not just under center. Whether it’s a rookie wideout extending drives, a veteran defender reshaping a pass rush, or a special teams weapon keeping the scoreboard ticking, these pieces often determine which teams can sustain success through the grind of a 17-game season.

As the league moves into its second week, all eyes will be on whether these newcomers can sustain their hot starts. Micah Parsons will face the test of slowing down the Falcons’ run-heavy offense, while Brock Bowers’ health status looms large for Las Vegas. In Buffalo, Coleman will look to build on his breakout as the Bills attempt to maintain momentum.

If Week 1 is any indication, the 2025 rookie and newcomer class is already shaping the narrative of the season, and ESPN’s rankings are capturing that shift in real time.