2021 NFL Power Rankings: Carolina Panthers

Throughout the 2021 NFL season, we will compile a consensus NFL Power Rankings that averages the rankings of all 32 NFL teams.

Here is where the Carolina Panthers rank in terms of average, best and worst:

Average ranking: 26.8 (26th)
Best ranking: 26 (Multiple)
Worst ranking: 28 (NFL.com)

Below you will find a Week 15 roundup for the Panthers in our consensus 2021 NFL Power Rankings.

ESPN -- Rank: 26

The offensive rating sums up just where this team went south and what will prevent it from being successful the remainder of the season. Sunday's loss to Atlanta was a microcosm of the year in that quarterbacks Cam Newton and P.J. Walker combined for two interceptions and a lost fumble that led to 13 of Atlanta's points. Coach Matt Rhule called Newton's two turnovers "catastrophic,'' and there's been a lot of that since a 3-0 start with Sam Darnold. The offensive numbers do not lie. -- David Newton

NFL.com -- Rank: 28

Cam Newton lawn darts or P.J. Walker hospital balls? This is the choice facing Matt Rhule, whose self-made QB quandary has swallowed up this Carolina season. The Panthers all but excused themselves from the NFC playoff picture with Sunday's dispiriting home loss to the Falcons that featured three QB turnovers and extensive playing time for both of Rhule's underwhelming options under center. On Monday, Rhule told reporters that it's a "possibility" Sam Darnold is back in the mix once he recovers from his shoulder injury. Decisions, decisions, decisions.

CBS Sports -- Rank: 26

The firing of coordinator Joe Brady didn't do much for the offense. They are just not good enough on that side of the ball, no matter who calls the plays.

USA Today -- Rank: 27

Absent deposed OC Joe Brady, they're now rotating QBs Cam Newton and P.J. Walker. Maybe once Sam Darnold is ready to return, and Matt Barkley is up to speed, everyone can play a quarter. Varsity letters for the whole group!

The Athletic -- Rank: 27

Worst-case scenario: When the Panthers score just nine points on three field goals in a Week 15 loss to the Bills, Matt Rhule fires new play caller Jeff Nixon, the team's running backs coach. When the Panthers are blown out by the Bucs in Week 16, Rhule cans the entire offensive staff. The defensive staff is let go after Week 17, leaving Rhule as the only man standing for the season finale against Tampa Bay.

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