After the NFL Draft , it’s a great time to recalibrate NFL power rankings; the draft can make a huge difference in where a team lands in the league or even within its division. The Carolina Panthers are the reigning NFC South champions, and after what looks to be one of the more successful drafts in the league, the Panthers are in prime shape to repeat as division champions. Panthers Crack the Top 20 Apr 23, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs offensive lineman Monroe Freeling is selected by the Carolina Panthers as the number 19 pick during the 2026 NFL Draft at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images NFL.com's Eric Edholm released his NFL power rankings post-NFL Draft , and has the Panthers correctly above the rest of the NFC South. The Panthers slotted in at 17th in the league, while two of the three other NFC South teams didn't crack the top 20.…