AFC West Preview 2021
Our AFC West preview 2021 finds that this conference could be more competitive than most might think. The AFC West includes one of the most stacked and best teams in the conference. That team is the Kansas City Chiefs, which includes some of the NFL’s best offensive players, an improved D, and solid special teams units. But the other three teams in the West, the Las Vegas Raiders, Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Chargers, all need to be taken seriously.
AFC West Preview 2021 – Teams
Here’s a quick sketch of each team in the West. For more in-depth analysis of each team, please see our detailed individual NFL team previews.
Denver Broncos – There are many questions about this team. Will Teddy Bridgewater and Drew Lock be the team’s starting quarterback? Can the offensive line find consistency? Unlike last season, will the secondary play up to expectations? How well will Von Miller perform after missing all of the 2020 season? Consequently, if the Broncos can offer positive responses to these questions, our AFC West preview 2021 projects them to be competitive.
Kansas City Chiefs – The Chiefs are, once again, the best in the West. However, that means that every team will be looking to knock them from the top spot. The offense, which is led by QB Patrick Mahomes, is talented, deep, and skilled. The O-line has been rebuilt, which should help a lot. On defense, the team is solid in the secondary, but it has issues upfront and at linebacker.
Las Vegas Raiders – Quarterback Derek Carr is a premium talent, and he has a fine receiving unit to work with. Additionally, the ground unit is solid. Conversely, the frontline has some question marks. Defense was a major problem last season. Nevertheless, the D-line looks good and secondary looks promising.
Los Angeles Chargers – To start, QB Justin Herbert is a premium talent. Plus, improvements on the offensive line should afford him more time to make plays. In addition, the receiving and ground units are solid. On the other side of the ball, the frontline looks good. However, despite talent at linebacker and in the secondary, there are concerns regarding both groups.
Projected AFC West Final Standings:
Kansas City Chiefs (14-2)
Los Angeles Chargers (10-7) Wildcard
Denver Broncos (9-8)
Las Vegas Raiders (7-10)
AFC West Preview 2021 – Final Thoughts
We don’t expect any team in this division to remain undefeated. However, of the four franchises, the Chiefs have the best shot at coming close to a perfect mark. Any of the other three teams could secure a wildcard slot. We think the Chargers have the best chance at making it to the playoffs. However, don’t rule our dark horses Denver and Las Vegas.
