NFL Power Rankings 2009

(Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

With all the parity in the league and surprise teams every year it is really hard to put together accurate power rankings. Most people go by their opinion but I decided to try it a different way. I came up with a formula that I used to help in the creation of these rankings. I went by previous year record, strength of schedule, projected division winners, and draft grades. I then tweaked the results by my opinion.

Here are the results with brief descriptions:

1. Pittsburgh Steelers

I usually don't like seeing a team be put number one just because they won the Super Bowl. Rarely does the best team in the league win the Super Bowl. This time though...the Steelers were the best team in the league. They had the toughest schedule in the league and won it all. They had a decent draft and their only glaring weakness is the offensive line (which may be better this year). They have a much easier schedule this year as well.

2. Indianapolis Colts

The Colts are always dangerous when healthy. They had a pretty good draft and should be able to run the ball more effectively with the addition of RB Donald Brown. The question mark with them is who will step into the second receiver role vacated by Marvin Harrison?

3. New England Patriots

Other rankings have them at number one...this is if Tom Brady comes back and picks up where he left off. Also, everyone lauds their draft but more than half of their picks probably won't even make the roster. They did make some nice additions in the draft and free agency. If the run game is better with Fred Taylor and Brady plays great then they will probably be the favorite in the AFC to win the Super Bowl.

4. Philadelphia Eagles

Did any team do more to help themselves in the draft or free agency? If their draft picks pan out then look out. McNabb has receivers now and they have a backup for Westbrook if he goes down. They also added to the offensive line with the acquisition of Jason Peters. The Eagles made the NFC Championship game last year and may find themselves there again in 09.

5. Atlanta Falcons

The Achilles Heel of the Falcons last year was their defense (#24 in the league). The team had another strong draft and focused every pick except one on defense. Peria Jerry should help against the run and pass. William Moore could end up starting at strong safety. The defense should be better but the question mark is their line-backing corps. Adding Tony Gonzalez to an already potent offense will only help.

6. NY GIANTS

The team faded down the stretch last year with the loss of Plaxico Burress. They added WR Hakeem Nicks in the draft and also upgraded their offensive line and line-backing corps. They have a potent rushing attack and if their passing game flourishes could be a tough team to beat. They do have a tough schedule but should contend with Philadelphia for the NFC East.

7. TENNESSEE TITANS

Tennessee had a solid draft and looks like a contender again this year. Question marks here are quarterback and replacing Haynesworth. They have a middle of the road schedule as far as strength and should contend with the Colts for the AFC South division.

8. ARIZONA CARDINALS

One thing that helps the Cards get a ranking this high is being in a weak division. They had a good draft and have a pretty easy schedule. The addition of RB Chris Wells should help the rushing attack. Question marks- There are a number of players who aren't happy with their contract situations (Boldin and Dockett) and it is yet to be seen how this will effect the team.

9. BALTIMORE RAVENS

The Ravens have an easy schedule and had a solid draft. Question marks- How will the defense look without Bart Scott? Will Joe Flacco play well again?

10. MINNESOTA VIKINGS

Hmmm...how will the Favre saga pan out? I'm not a huge Favre fan but picking him up shouldn't hurt this team given their quarterback situation. The solid offensive and defensive lines and the run game are the strengths of the team.

11. CHICAGO BEARS

Another team that really helped themselves out this offseason. A solid draft, the easiest schedule in the league, and QB Jay Cutler should help Chicago contend for the NFC North crown.

12. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

Not a stellar draft but it was ok. Will Tomlinson return to form or continue to regress? Will Merriman return to form and help the D? They have a middle of the road strength of schedule and should win their division.

13. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?