NFL power rankings: League-wide look at each team as preseason starts

NFL power rankings: League-wide look for each team as preseason starts

ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 22: Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons speaks to Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers after the NFC Championship Game at the Georgia Dome on January 22, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Falcons defeated the Packers 44-21. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

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TAMPA, FL – JANUARY 01: Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers reacts after throwing an interception against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the third quarter of the game at Raymond James Stadium on January 1, 2017 in Tampa, Florida. The Buccaneers defeated the Panthers 17-16. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

87. . . . Carolina Panthers. 15. team

I’m still of the mindset the Carolina Panthers’ 2016 season was more of a gaffe and Super Bowl 50 hangover than anything else.

Top to bottom, the Panthers still boast an impressive roster. And the one thing separating them from the Texans on this power rankings list is the fact they have an NFL MVP under center, Cam Newton.

Newton’s shoulder surgery recovery is something to watch, but at least the Panthers brought in a major weapon to give him support, running back Christian McCaffrey.

If this video of McCaffrey in training camp doesn’t impress you, nothing will:

This should help Newton bounce back.

Defensively, especially up front, Carolina should be close to as good as it was during its Super Bowl appearance.

Let’s just hope the secondary holds up.