Carolina Panthers Power Rankings: Preseason Game 1

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CHARLOTTE, NC – DECEMBER 17: Christian McCaffrey #22 of the Carolina Panthers runs the ball against the Green Bay Packers in the first quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on December 17, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

ESPN – No. 11

While there hasn’t been a new ESPN power ranking poll since following the draft, many NFL teams remain in their same position. Having added free agents and draft classes, the latest poll puts Carolina at No. 11 to begin the year.

"Cam Newton texted a cryptic “thank you” to coach Ron Rivera after the Panthers drafted wide receiver D.J. Moore at 24th overall. There’s good reason for that. Newton averaged 120 passing yards per game to his wide receivers last season, the lowest mark of his career."

By comparison, the Falcons and Saints both landed higher on the list at No. 7 and No. 6, respectively. All indications are that another tight playoff and divisional title race will ensue during 2018 among these same three teams.

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