# NFL 2026 season early standings and rankings

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/nfl-2026-season-early-standings-and-rankings
> Updated: 2026-10-05T13:00:00.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 2.

Following Week 4 of the NFL season, the San Francisco 49ers have maintained a 4-0 start, placing them at the top of the league power rankings. Their recent 24-14 victory over the Denver Broncos was supported by veteran offensive production and an improved offensive line.

Key contributors include Deebo Samuel, Christian McCaffrey, and George Kittle. The team’s veteran pass-catchers have set an NFL record by recording 11 receiving touchdowns by players aged 30 or older through the first four games, with Kittle accounting for four of those scores. Offensive lineman Trent Williams credited the unit’s success to increased confidence and improved protection for quarterback Brock Purdy.

As the season progresses, the 49ers remain at the top of championship futures markets alongside the Kansas City Chiefs. Other notable developments in Week 4 include the Cleveland Browns emerging as a contender with a 3-1 record, while the Los Angeles Rams have reclaimed the top spot in Super Bowl prediction markets following a victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. 

Conversely, the Buffalo Bills and Cincinnati Bengals have seen championship odds decline. The league is also navigating significant injury concerns, with notable absences including Lamar Jackson in Baltimore and Caleb Williams in Chicago. At the bottom of the rankings, the Tennessee Titans and Miami Dolphins are struggling with 0-4 starts.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-05: San Francisco 49ers maintain 4-0 start led by veterans and improved offensive line

The San Francisco 49ers hold a 4-0 start in the 2026 season, fueled by record-breaking veteran receiving touchdowns and a highly improved offensive line.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/san-francisco-49ers-maintain-4-0-start-led-by-veterans-and-improved-offensive-line

### 2026-10-04: NFL Week 4: Browns and 49ers rise as Super Bowl odds shift

NFL Week 4 sees the Cleveland Browns and San Francisco 49ers rising in power rankings, while the Los Angeles Rams lead Super Bowl prediction markets following early-season momentum.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nfl-power-rankings-and-standings-shift-after-week-4

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Cite as: NFL 2026 season early standings and rankings. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/nfl-2026-season-early-standings-and-rankings
