1. AFC West
The AFC West's top teams have more continuity than the NFC North's premier squads, which makes it more likely that the division features three playoff teams in consecutive years. While it will be difficult for the Chiefs to match their 15-2 record from the previous season, they're averaging nearly 13 wins per year with Patrick Mahomes as their starting quarterback. Even though tight end Travis Kelce has shown signs of decline, the receiver trio of Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy and Hollywood Brown will keep defenders on their heels. Also, Kansas City may have finally found its long-term starting left tackle in rookie Josh Simmons, who's
pushing for the starting job less than a year removed from a torn patellar tendon. The Los Angeles Chargers added to a foundation-setting first year under head coach Jim Harbaugh. They signed guard Mekhi Becton (6'7", 363 lbs) and drafted running back Omarion Hampton (6'0", 220 lbs) and wide receiver Tre Harris (6'3", 210 lbs) to super-size their physical offensive attack. Wideout Mike Williams is also back in the fold, with four years of experience playing with quarterback Justin Herbert. The Denver Broncos added three playmakers to strengthen the supporting cast around second-year quarterback Bo Nix. They signed tight end Evan Engram and drafted RJ Harvey, whom they want to
feature in the passing game, and Pat Bryant. Head coach Sean Payton
told reporters that Bryant resembles two-time All-Pro wideout Michael Thomas. Early in the offseason, the Las Vegas Raiders made a splash on the trade market, acquiring Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks. Because of its significant upgrade at quarterback, the Silver and Black could optimize talent at the skill positions, particularly with All-Pro tight end Brock Bowers, wide receiver Jakobi Meyers and rookie running back Ashton Jeanty in Chip Kelly's offense. The Raiders' quarterback and coaching upgrades should allow them to finish closer to .500 following a 4-13 season. Every team in the AFC West looks significantly improved or at least steady, so it takes the No. 1 spot over the NFC North, a division with some question marks at quarterback and key coordinator positions for two of its playoff teams from last season.
