Tom Brady’s NFL power rankings have revealed significant shifts as Week 5 of the 2024 season approaches. Before the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons face off on Thursday night, Brady’s insights offer a glimpse into which teams are rising and which have fallen from grace.
According to Brady, this season has been unpredictable, with surprises unfolding each week. However, as the season progresses, clearer patterns are emerging among the teams.
A previously undefeated team, coached by one of Brady’s former teammates, has surged into the top two spots, while another familiar franchise makes its debut in Brady’s top five following a commanding showing witnessed firsthand by the legendary quarterback.
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Here are the top five teams according to Brady as they enter Week 5!
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-0) Week 4 result: Defeated Philadelphia Eagles, 33-16
Brady’s thoughts: “I’m not just saying it because I was back there on Sunday. The Bucs looked impressive. They bounced back from a tough loss to the Broncos. Baker [Mayfield] is executing the game plan well, distributing the ball to Mike [Evans] and Chris [Godwin]. Together, they combined for 14 catches in the victory over the Eagles.
“The defense also stood out, racking up six sacks against [Jalen] Hurts. Watching Vita [Vea] dominate the line of scrimmage is always a thrill. He has the power to disrupt any play.”
Star defensive tackle Vita Vea and the Buccaneers defense pressured Jalen Hurts and the Eagles offense throughout the game last Sunday. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)
2. Detroit Lions (3-1) (Last week: Unranked)
Week 4 result: Defeated Seattle Seahawks, 42-29
Brady’s thoughts: “The Lions have made a strong comeback into my top five. Their performance against the Seahawks was impressive. [Jared] Goff completed all 18 of his passes. This team boasts a balanced attack with numerous offensive weapons. [Amon-Ra] St. Brown, [Jameson] Williams, and [Sam] LaPorta are complemented by a strong running game featuring [David] Montgomery and [Jahmyr] Gibbs, making it hard for defenses to focus on any single player.
“The key to their success lies in the trust they have in their playcaller, Ben Johnson, who has been calling the shots for three seasons now. His decision to stay rather than pursue a head coaching position was a significant win for the Lions this offseason.”
3. Houston Texans (3-1) Week 4 result: Defeated Jacksonville Jaguars, 24-20
Brady’s thoughts: “The Texans delivered a crucial bounce-back victory against the Jaguars. Nico Collins had a standout performance with 12 receptions for 151 yards and a touchdown. His chemistry with C.J. [Stroud] is evident, showcasing what a great quarterback-receiver duo can achieve. Nico is well on his way to another 1,000-yard season.”
Nico Collins achieved a career-high 12 receptions in the Texans’ win over the Jaguars. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
4. Minnesota Vikings (4-0) Week 4 result: Defeated Green Bay Packers, 31-29
Brady’s thoughts: “The Vikings maintained their undefeated status by defeating the Packers in Green Bay. Their confidence is evident after four games. Sam Darnold is effectively involving Justin Jefferson, who had six catches on eight targets. The defense appeared strong until the fourth quarter, allowing 22 points, but Coach Brian Flores is making adjustments to prevent that from happening again.
“As they prepare to head to London to face Aaron Rodgers and the Jets, Coach Kevin O’Connell and his staff are pleased with the team’s progress. However, they remain focused and ready for the challenge ahead.”
Sam Darnold and Justin Jefferson have emerged as one of the league’s most effective quarterback-receiver duos this season. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
5. Kansas City Chiefs (4-0) Week 4 result: Defeated Los Angeles Chargers, 17-10
Brady’s thoughts: “The Chiefs continue to dominate with Patrick [Mahomes] and Travis [Kelce] leading the charge. Despite their 4-0 record, they acknowledge they haven’t yet reached their peak performance. Their experience in crucial moments will help them grind out victories as they strive to find their best form.
“A significant concern for Kansas City is the injury to Rashee Rice. His absence will be felt as they gear up for two important games: facing the Saints this week and then heading into a bye before a matchup against the 49ers on FOX. Brady will also be in attendance, and he knows Coach Kyle Shanahan will have his team prepared for that highly anticipated game.”
Patrick Mahomes has thrown an interception in each of the first four games of the season, yet the Chiefs remain undefeated at 4-0. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
