Finishing up the AFC portion of our Offseason Needs series, we turn to the AFC West. One of the toughest divisions in football still has clear roster holes, some shared across all four teams.
The Chiefs are trying to extend a dynasty, the Broncos and Chargers are pushing to break through in the playoff race, and the rebuilding Raiders must decide which gaps to address first.
Here is where each AFC West team should focus heading into the 2026 offseason.
Denver Broncos
Running Back: The Broncos saw some nice moments from RJ Harvey, but he is not a true three down back, and JK Dobbins and Jaleel McLaughlin are both free agents. They will likely be in the market for a power option, whether that comes through free agency or in the middle to late rounds of the draft.
Wide Receiver: Courtland Sutton is reliable and Marvin Mims flashes at times, but the Broncos need a consistent speed threat who can stretch the field and open up the offense. If they believe he is fully healthy and can fit in the locker room, Tyreek Hill could be a real target in Denver.
Tight End: Evan Engram has been underwhelming in Denver, and with his injury history and age, he is unlikely to return to his prime form. Cleveland free agent David Njoku could be an option, as could Buffalo tight end Dawson Knox if he becomes a cap casualty.
Los Angeles Chargers
Interior Offensive Line: The entire line was an issue for Los Angeles this past season, though the tackle spots were dealing with injuries. Bradley Bozeman and Mekhi Becton struggled in pass protection, often forcing Justin Herbert to play off script. Expect an overhaul up front.
EDGE: Khalil Mack and Odafe Oweh are both free agents, and outside of Tuli Tuipulotu, the Chargers lack a true difference maker off the edge. If they are unable to bring one of their veterans back, the draft will likely be the primary route given a thin free agent market at the position.
Linebacker: Denzel Perryman is a 33 year old free agent who has slowed in the later stages of his career. Los Angeles still has Daiyan Henley, but could use a downhill tackler in the middle if Perryman does not return.
Kansas City Chiefs
Running Back: The Kansas City running game was awful in 2025-26. Isaiah Pacheco looked like a shadow of his normal self, and Kareem Hunt wasn’t much better. Many have the Chiefs trying to land Jeremiyah Love in the Draft, and it would be a perfect fit for their needs.
Tight End: Travis Kelce is a free agent and, at 36 years old, the future HOFer is playing the worst football of his career. Whether he comes back or not, the Chiefs will need to figure out the future of the position, whether that be incumbent backup Noah Gray, or someone from outside the current roster.
Right Tackle: This may sound rought, but Jawaan Taylor is quite possibly the worst starting right tackle in the NFL. He has a penchant for blown passing blocking, false starts, and ill-timed holds. The Chiefs have tried to make it work for a couple years, but will need to throw in the towel at this point and find a new starter.
Running Back: Kansas City’s run game was a major issue in 2025-26. Isaiah Pacheco looked like a shell of himself and Kareem Hunt did not provide much of a lift. Jeremiyah Love is a popular projection to Kansas City in the draft and would be a strong fit for what this offense needs.
Tight End: Travis Kelce is a free agent and, at 36, the future Hall of Famer is coming off the least productive stretch of his career. Whether he returns or not, the Chiefs need a long term plan at the position, either developing Noah Gray or adding help from outside the roster.
Right Tackle: Jawaan Taylor is quite possibly the worst starting right tackle in the NFL. Issues in pass protection, along with penalties and inconsistency, have been ongoing concerns. The Chiefs have given this a chance to work, but it may be time to move on and find a new starter at the position.
Las Vegas Raiders
Quarterback: With the No. 1 pick in the draft, the Raiders’ quarterback in 2026 is all but certain to be Fernando Mendoza. Until that selection is made, however, the most important position in football remains the biggest hole on the roster for the Silver and Black.
Center: Jordan Meredith was one of the worst starting offensive linemen in the league last season and is now a free agent. While some expected Jackson Powers-Johnson to move to center, the organization appears to view him as a guard. Free agent Tyler Linderbaum is a likely target for Las Vegas to address the position.
Cornerback: Both starting corners are free agents, leaving second year player Darien Porter as the top option currently on the roster. The Raiders will need to prioritize re-signing Eric Stokes and adding another starting caliber coverage defender, either through the draft or free agency.
If this was your kind of read, you’ll like what’s next. Get The Sandman Ticket, our free, weekly newsletter with picks, insights, and a little bit of everything we love about sports.
