Vikings Enter Top 10 After 5-0 Start in NFL Rankings

The Minnesota Vikings climbed into the NFL top 10 after opening the 2026 season with a 5-0 record, according to NFL.com’s Week 6 Power Rankings. The ranking highlighted the team’s unbeaten run, defensive performance, and improving offense. According to NFL.com, three teams remained undefeated after five weeks of the season, while three teams had yet to record a victory.

The Vikings were identified as one of the season’s unexpected early contenders. NFL.com noted that Minnesota’s defense has been a major reason for its strong start. The unit has helped the team remain unbeaten while the offense continues adjusting under coach Kevin O'Connell’s system.

The Vikings’ offense showed progress in the second half of their game against the Saints, according to NFL.com. Kyler Murray connected with Justin Jefferson for a touchdown and directed an attack that scored 17 points after halftime.

NFL.com reported that Murray has appeared increasingly comfortable in O'Connell’s system, although the team still has areas to improve. The ranking noted that the Vikings’ offense continues to work through adjustments despite the undefeated record. The Week 6 rankings placed Minnesota among several teams making significant moves after a week of road victories. NFL.com also highlighted the 49ers, Chiefs, Seahawks, Ravens, Jaguars, Bills, Bengals, Broncos, and Patriots in its evaluation of the league hierarchy.

New England also entered the top 10 after a strong performance against the Raiders, according to NFL.com. The Patriots received praise for contributions from Drake Maye, Efton Chism III, Kyle Williams, DeMario Douglas, and other skill-position players. NFL.com’s rankings also emphasized that the 2026 season has produced several unexpected results, including the Vikings reaching 5-0 and the Chargers starting 0-5. The league evaluation considered both recent performances and broader season outlooks.