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Ranking projected offensive lines in the AFC West for 2022

By Lou Scataglia

Sep 26, 2021; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos offensive tackle Garett Bolles (72) reacts after the game against the New York Jets at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 26, 2021; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Broncos offensive tackle Garett Bolles (72) reacts after the game against the New York Jets at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /
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The AFC West is loaded with talent, especially on offense. Which club in the division has the best overall unit heading into the 2022 season?  It’s a worthy question because there’s some very solid talent in these units.

Having a solid offensive line in the NFL is one of the most important things a team can do to ensure success.  Some would say that teams are built from the inside out.  No matter who is under center, having a competent unit up front makes even the most veteran quarterbacks’ lives easier.

The Bengals had a bad offensive line in 2021 but made the Super Bowl.  However, the Bengals’ front office invested heavily in the unit during this offseason.  The Broncos have made their share of investments along the line, and look to be sporting at least an average unit in 2022.

Among their AFC West rivals, where does the Broncos’ offensive line stand?

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – AUGUST 26: Offensive tackle Alex Leatherwood #70 of the Las Vegas Raiders looks to block during the second half of a preseason game against the New England Patriots at Allegiant Stadium on August 26, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – AUGUST 26: Offensive tackle Alex Leatherwood #70 of the Las Vegas Raiders looks to block during the second half of a preseason game against the New England Patriots at Allegiant Stadium on August 26, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images) /

Ranking offensive lines in the AFC West for 2022

4. Las Vegas Raiders, Projected lineup: LT Kolton Miller, LG Denzelle Good, C Andre James, RG Dylan Parham, RT Alex Leatherwood

The Raiders offensive line is one of the weakest units in the NFL.  What was once one of the very best has now turned into the weakest part of their roster.  Outside of Kolton Miller, no one else has proven themselves.

Alex Leatherwood is the biggest name on this list after the Raiders reached for him during the 2021 NFL Draft.  He apparently is on the trade block and could even be cut.  Right now, though, he seems to be a projected starter unless something changes.

Good, James, and Parham aren’t particularly special players either, but might just be good enough to keep Derek Carr upright for the 2022 season.  I do think we’ll begin to see the new regime in Las Vegas pick away at building the most talented offensive line that they can.  It’s good that they have their left tackle position settled, though.

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