Preseason NFL Power Rankings

This is the inaugural week of the NFL Rankings on Associated Content. Teams' records, performance, statistics, personnel, injuries and other intangible factors are used to rank all 32 teams in the NFL.

It is always hard to rank teams without a single meaningful snap being played on the season. To come up with the preseason rankings, the team's offseason moves, last year's finish and other factors were used to make the first ranking list. It is a little "what have you done for me lately, what will you do for me." Here are the preseason NFL Rankings:

1. Indianapolis Colts (Last Week: No Rankings, Record Last Season: 12-4)

The Indianapolis Colts are the defending Super Bowl champions and they start out the year ranked number 1 on the chart. They have lost some key players but they should have an easy path to the playoffs this season.

2. England Patriots">New England Patriots (Last Week: No Rankings, Record Last Season: 12-4)

The Patriots added Randy Moss, Donte Stallworth, Wes Welker, Adalius Thomas and some nice rookies to a team that almost made the Super Bowl. They should be a force to be reckoned with in the AFC and are the favorites to make the Super Bowl this season.

3. Chicago Bears (Last Week: No Rankings, Record Last Season: 13-3)

The Bears were the best team in the NFC last season and they were the Super Bowl runner-up. With the Bears standing pat and the rest of the NFC looking better, the Bears will be in for a tough challenge. Look for Cedric Benson and Garett Wolfe to be an electrifying backfield.

4. San Diego Chargers (Last Week: No Rankings, Record Last Season: 14-2)

San Diego's early exit from last year's playoffs doesn't instill much confidence this year. Also, dumping Schotenheimer and replacing him with Norv Turner isn't much of an upgrade. Bet the Chargers wish they had Cam Cameron right now.

5. New Orleans Saints (Last Week: No Rankings, Record Last Season: 10-6)

New Orleans had an amazing season last year and it appears they have the tools to win the NFC South again. Brees, Colston, Bush and company should put some points up on the board all season but it is their defense that will be needed to step up.