Week 2 NFL Power Rankings: Newcomers Shine While Non-QBs Steal the Spotlight

As the NFL gears up for its second week of action, ESPN has unveiled its updated Power Rankings, offering fans a glimpse into how all 32 teams are faring as the season picks up steam. While quarterback performances often dominate the headlines, this week’s rankings shift the focus to a different set of impact players: the top newcomers at each team who are not playing the quarterback position.

From exciting rookies to impactful veteran acquisitions, several players have already made their mark, proving that offseason moves and draft strategies are paying off across the league.

Power Rankings Take Shape

At the pinnacle of the rankings, the Buffalo Bills have surged into the No. 1 spot following their historic comeback win against the Baltimore Ravens. While quarterback Josh Allen led the charge, rookie wide receiver Keon Coleman played a crucial role, making two clutch fourth-quarter receptions that kept the Bills’ drives alive in the thrilling 41–40 victory.

Close behind, the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs maintain their positions near the top despite facing injuries and early season struggles. Both franchises are demonstrating the importance of depth beyond the quarterback position, showcasing how vital it is to have standout players in various roles.

Spotlight on Standout Newcomers

ESPN’s Week 2 rankings uniquely highlight newcomers outside of the quarterback position, recognizing that these players can be the difference between playoff contention and mediocrity. Here are some key highlights:

Green Bay Packers: Micah Parsons (DE)
The Packers’ blockbuster offseason trade has already paid dividends. In his debut, Parsons was a force against the Detroit Lions, recording a sack and applying constant pressure in a 27–13 victory. His presence is reshaping Green Bay’s defensive identity and making opposing offenses rethink their strategies.
Las Vegas Raiders: Brock Bowers (TE)
Although he exited Sunday’s game with a knee issue, Bowers made a significant impact before leaving, catching five passes for 103 yards against the New England Patriots. His explosive play has sparked excitement among Raiders fans and contributed to the team’s rise in the rankings.
Indianapolis Colts: Spencer Shrader (K)
While quarterback Daniel Jones made headlines with a historic debut, ESPN’s criteria excluded quarterbacks from this list. Instead, kicker Spencer Shrader was recognized for his crucial contributions, nailing four field goals in the Colts’ 33–8 rout of the Miami Dolphins.
Chicago Bears: Rome Odunze (WR)
The rookie receiver displayed impressive chemistry with quarterback Caleb Williams, racking up 92 receiving yards in the opener. Even in a loss, Odunze’s performance provided a glimmer of hope for Bears fans looking for bright spots in a challenging season.
Washington Commanders: Deebo Samuel (WR)
Acquired in a bold offseason move, Samuel made an immediate impact with a two-touchdown performance in Washington’s Week 1 win. His versatility and ability to make plays were vital to the Commanders’ success, showcasing the effectiveness of their revamped offense.

Biggest Risers and Fallers

The Bills and Packers emerged as the week’s biggest risers, propelled by standout performances from newcomers like Coleman and Parsons. On the flip side, the New York Giants slipped down the rankings following struggles from quarterback Russell Wilson and internal sideline tensions, with rookie running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. being one of the few bright spots in an otherwise disappointing outing.

Despite their heartbreaking loss, the Baltimore Ravens remain in the top 10 thanks to rookie pass rusher Adisa Isaac, who provided much-needed energy off the edge and showcased his potential as a game-changer.

By shining a light on non-quarterback additions, ESPN’s analysis emphasizes a broader truth: success in football often comes down to the details, not just the star quarterbacks. Whether it’s a rookie wideout extending drives, a veteran defender reshaping the pass rush, or a special teams weapon adding points, these players can be the difference-makers that propel teams to victory over the grueling 17-game season.

As the league heads into its second week, all eyes will be on whether these newcomers can maintain their impressive starts. Micah Parsons will face the challenge of slowing down the Atlanta Falcons’ run-heavy offense, while Brock Bowers’ health status remains a significant concern for the Las Vegas Raiders. In Buffalo, Coleman aims to build on his breakout performance as the Bills look to keep their momentum rolling.

If Week 1 serves as an indicator, the 2025 rookie and newcomer class is already making waves and shaping the narrative of the season. ESPN’s rankings are capturing this shift in real-time, providing fans with a fresh perspective on the players who are stepping up and making a difference outside of the quarterback spotlight.

As the season unfolds, expect these rankings to evolve, reflecting the ongoing drama and excitement of the NFL.