AFC WEST 2025 NFL Season Outlook

Chiefs

Is there anyone not penciling in the Chiefs into another Super Bowl appearance? Buffalo and Baltimore feel like the only legitimate threats- both of whom have fallen to the Chiefs in back-to-back AFC title games. Until someone proves otherwise the road still goes through the team in red and Pat Mahomes.

Raiders 

The Raiders are undergoing a full-scale transformation. With Tom Brady now in the ownership suite and Pete Carroll taking over as head coach, the franchise is embracing a new era. A fresh offensive scheme, a new quarterback, and a revamped backfield signal a reset. Maxx Crosby, locked in with a new extension, remains the defensive cornerstone. This team could surprise if the pieces click early. The division is just so tough it’s hard to see the Raiders threatening the Chiefs or Broncos.

Chargers

I’m quietly watching to see if Trey Lance will become one of the most valuable backup QBs in football- the most underrated position in the league. With Jim Harbaugh entering year two, history suggest the Chargers are ready for a big push. 

Broncos

Denver is quietly building something compelling. Bo Nix turned heads with a standout rookie campaign, and his development will be key to the Broncos’ playoff hopes. Defensively, they were among the league’s best last season—if that unit holds strong and Nix takes another leap in year two in the Sean Payton system,, they could be the team that finally challenges Kansas City’s divisional dominance. Let’s not forget, The Broncos beat the Chiefs at Arrowhead last season.