Updated
Updated · NFL Spin Zone · Aug 9
Seahawks Rank No. 3, Texans No. 4 in NFL Preseason Power Rankings
Updated
Updated · NFL Spin Zone · Aug 9

Seahawks Rank No. 3, Texans No. 4 in NFL Preseason Power Rankings

3 articles · Updated · NFL Spin Zone · Aug 9

Summary

  • Seattle opened at No. 3 in the latest preseason power rankings, with the defending Super Bowl champion backed for another double-digit-win playoff run despite losing Kenneth Walker III and Riq Woolen.
  • Houston landed at No. 4 after bolstering an already top-five roster with Wyatt Teller, Braden Smith, David Montgomery, Reed Blankenship, Kayden McDonald and Jadeveon Clowney.
  • CJ Stroud remains the key variable for the Texans: his passer rating has hovered around 90 since the start of the 2024 season, and the ranking argues Houston's title hopes depend on him reaching top-12 form.
  • The list frames both teams as near the top of the league entering preseason, while noting Seattle must navigate a possible Super Bowl hangover and Houston must turn roster strength into a deeper playoff push.

Insights

Can Seattle's strategic youth movement and elite coaching overcome the loss of key stars to secure a rare Super Bowl repeat?
With Houston going all-in on an elite roster, is C.J. Stroud the missing championship piece or the anchor holding them back?
Will Sam Darnold's mysterious new role in Seattle's offense be the secret weapon that prevents a post-championship hangover?