The early market also shows the AFC West tailspin toward familiar hierarchies: Chargers +170, Chiefs +175, Broncos +215, Raiders +2500. Los Angeles is listed ahead of Denver in most markets despite finishing below the Broncos in 2026, a trend analysts say mirrors off-season projection patterns.
That stance contrasts with Denver’s 2025-26 performance, when the Broncos posted the AFC’s best record, won the division, and were minutes from a Super Bowl appearance after advancing to the AFC Championship Game without Bo Nix at quarterback.
The Chargers’ odds are being driven by offensive changes, including the reported addition of Mike McDaniel as offensive coordinator, and the expected return of tackles Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater, which markets see as upgrades to a team that already finished strong in 2026.
Denver’s outlook centers on Bo Nix returning healthy and continuing to develop in Year 2, a defense led by Vance Joseph that ranked No. 4 in scoring last season, and meaningful salary-cap flexibility after moving on from the Russell Wilson contract, factors that could help the Broncos close the gap as the offseason progresses.
