Unlike the old AP college football poll, which actually decided the national champion for decades, NFL power rankings are a fun but irrelevant exercise. And challenging when the date on the calendar reads May 1.

Notre Dame has etched its name across not only college football history, but that of the NFL Draft, too, producing the most top picks. But it's been a while since the Irish climbed to the top of this ladder, with most of its run of elite talent production coming from the 1940s through 1960s.

What's the NFL look like as everyone awaits the release of the schedule in May? Power rankings have shaken up since February, so let's get to it. The Panthers may be better because they can't get any worse.

NFL Draft has teams loading back up for another NFL season and with it come the power rankings. Before the draft, many had the Ravens high on their boards coming off their dominant regular season that fell short in the playoffs.