7. AFC West: Chargers, Raiders, Chiefs, Broncos
When you break down the AFC West, the question starts to arise as to whether or not the Chargers are the top dog in this division.
The Kansas City Chiefs won the division last season. However, they are shifting from Alex Smith to Patrick Mahomes. Smith is a safe bet where you know what you are getting. It would have them compete for a division, but not a Super Bowl. Patrick Mahomes is a complete wild card. It could result in another division title or a year or two of rebuilding.
Their defense is not getting any younger and aside from Tyreek Hill, their wide receiver room does have some questions. Time will tell as to whether or not Mahomes can carry the roster.
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Speaking of a wild card, that is the Oakland Raiders. Nobody really knows what John Gruden has up his sleeve, but he sure has made some questionable moves. He added some old veteran skill players and added a project tackle to replace Donald Penn who is on the roster. This is a team with a chance to strike with the addition of some young talent and it does not seem like they took advantage this offseason.
The Denver Broncos should have a strong defense that only gets better with Bradley Chubb. However, the question is whether the offense can take a step forward. Case Keenum may be an upgrade at quarterback, but this was a team drafting in the top five last season. Does Keenum get the top drafting top 15?
Then, there is the Chargers. A second-year coach who made strides last season. The return of top ten pick Mike Williams and second-round guard Forest Lamp. The steal of the draft in 2018 in Derwin James. All of this tied together by a team that got hot last season due to a strong defensive line and pass rush. This is a team that could compete in 2018. However, they do not carry a division in power rankings.