The New England Patriots and Chicago Bears have both moved into the top seven of the latest NFL power rankings after strong recent performances.
New England rose to No. 7, while Chicago climbed to No. 6, reflecting improvements on offense and defense as both teams continue their 2026 campaigns.
Maye's Turnaround Lifts New England
According to Yahoo Sports, the Patriots rebounded from a narrow season-opening loss to Seattle by winning against Pittsburgh, Las Vegas, Buffalo, and the New York Jets.
Those results moved them up four places from No. 11.
Quarterback Drake Maye has been central to New England's offensive improvement.
Across his first three games, he recorded 585 passing yards, one touchdown, and six interceptions.
In his next three games, he produced 878 yards, 10 touchdowns, and one interception.
The Patriots have also welcomed A. J.
Brown back to the lineup.
However, Romeo Doubs has been placed on injured reserve with a shoulder injury, creating a personnel change as the offense continues its recent run of improved production.
Chicago also gained ground after defeating the Atlanta Falcons 31-23.
The Bears led 31-7 before allowing Atlanta to reduce the margin to eight points in the fourth quarter.
Despite the late defensive lapse, Chicago's performance during the first three quarters stood out as Caleb Williams returned to action.
Yahoo Sports reported that the Bears improved from No. 8 to No. 6 in the power rankings.
The team's defensive performance also received a boost from cornerback Kyler Gordon, whose return followed an extended absence caused by a calf injury.
Gordon missed the offseason and Chicago's first five games, raising questions about his future with the team.
In just 17 snaps during Sunday's game, he recorded three sacks and forced two fumbles, delivering a significant contribution in limited playing time.
According to the Bears' official website, Gordon became the first Chicago defensive back to record three sacks in a game since Todd Bell in 1983.
He also became the second defensive back in NFL history to record three sacks and two forced fumbles in one game, joining Rod Kush of the Houston Oilers, who achieved the feat in 1985.
The Patriots' rise has coincided with Maye's improved passing production, while Chicago's advancement has followed Williams' return and Gordon's defensive impact.
Both teams now occupy positions in the top seven of the latest NFL power rankings, with Chicago ranked one place above New England.
