AFC West

Newcomers to the division and several players who return from injuries make the AFC West one of the more difficult divisions to prognosticate heading into the season. The division has long been tight and with three teams coming off 8-8 seasons and the fourth a close 7-9, this is no different. I think two teams get noticeably better this year and two stay the same or get worse.

Kansas City Chiefs: Two years ago the Chiefs came from nowhere to win the West. A slip last year wasn’t surprising, particularly with the loss of Sean Berry, Tony Moeaki and Jamaal Charles early on. This year Kansas City looks to rebound, with those three returning and the addition of battering ram Peyton Hillis, whom I expect to have a big season. This will be a tight one but I think the Chiefs prevail.

Denver Broncos: The higher profile Peyton joining the AFC West this year is Manning, who will lead the Broncos to the playoffs. But I think it’s going to take him a short bit to shake off some rust. I like the Broncos to keep it close and they’ll be right there in the mix at the end.

Oakland Raiders: The Raiders were one of three teams to tie for the AFC West crown last season at 8-8. I like what I’ve seen from the Raiders’ new brass in the wake of the passing of Al Davis last year. But after trading for Carson Palmer, Oakland was a bit hamstrung when it came to improving the team in the short-term. I think the Raiders will be back before too long, and they’ll surprise a few teams this year, but it’s going to take a couple before they can challenge this year’s versions of the Broncos and Chiefs.

San Diego Chargers: Disappointing last year, the Chargers lost Vincent Jackson to free agency and Vincent Brown for the early part of the season to a broken ankle. The offensive line is in some disarray. Ryan Mathews is great when he can play but he’s anything but durable. This team is playing for Norv Turner’s job. I think they fail.