OAKLAND, CA - DECEMBER 06: Denver Broncos helmets sit on the bench during their game against the Oakland Raiders at O.co Coliseum on December 6, 2012 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /
Broncos- The Broncos defense finished with the best yards per carry average last season only allowing 3.3 yards per attempt. With a healthy Derek Wolfe and Domata Peko turning 23 years old (In Samoan years) the defensive line is on track to have repeat success. The breakout player from 2017 was also on the line in Shelby Harris. Harris looks to take that success in which he placed second behind Von Miller in sacks into the upcoming season. With some good depth behind them, the interior of the Broncos line looks strong going into training camp.
Chiefs- In terms of the best interior lineman in the AFC West, Chris Jones is at the top of the list. At only 23 years old Jones is a nuisance in the middle adding six and a half sacks from his defensive end position. The depth on the interior isn’t the greatest for the Chiefs but they are hopeful second-round pick Breeland Sparks can make contributions in his rookie campaign. Add in veterans such as Allen Bailey and Kansas City has a solid middle. However, Jones is the key to their ranking.
Raiders- The Raiders put a focus on the d-line during this year’s draft. Adding Sam Houston States P.J. Hall who filled up the stat sheet in college. While possibly getting a steal in the fifth round with Maurice Hurst who was projected to go in the second round. Alongside Mario Edwards Jr and Justin Ellis, the Raiders are looking to improve that aspect of the team.
Chargers- Corey Liuget has been potentially the most under-rated player in the AFC West since he came into the league, but after an off year and a four-game suspension to start the season the Chargers fall in the rankings. Brandon Mebane has been a quality player his whole career but at the age of 33, his best years are likely behind him. In the third round, they hope they added Mebane’s successor in Justin Jones (N.C. State) who recorded 8.5 tackles for loss from the interior. The Chargers will have to wait until week five to see how the unit can actually perform.
