Here are predictions for the AFC West in 2026.
Denver Broncos
2026 Record: 12-5
The team enters 2026 with optimism around head coach Sean Payton and quarterback Bo Nix, who returned from a broken right ankle suffered in the playoffs last season. Denver came within one win of the Super Bowl, and the front office acted to push the team over the hump by trading a 2026 first-round pick to acquire a standout wide receiver, Jaylen Waddle, adding explosive playmaking to the offense. Outside of that major addition, the roster features exciting rookies expected to contribute depth.
Denver’s defense remains a strength, and the offense is expected to be more dynamic this season. With a strong foundation and improvements on the perimeter, the Broncos look poised to contend for the division title and potentially secure a high seed in the AFC.
Kansas City Chiefs
2026 Record: 12-5
The Chiefs remain a perennial threat, even after a challenging previous season. The coaching staff, led by head coach Andy Reid, brought in Eric Bieniemy to coordinate the offense again, signaling a return to the offensive rhythm that defines the team. The offense is expected to rebound with a renewed run game, aided by the addition of Kenneth Walker, and a youthful influx of playmakers in Cyrus Allen and Emmett Johnson.
Defensively, Kansas City rebuilt its secondary, replacing departing cornerbacks with younger talent and hoping for a year-two jump from Nohl Williams. The draft also brought in pass-rushers Mansoor Delane and Jadon Canady to bolster pressure. While the Chiefs faced some regression last season, the organization is counting on a return to form, with Patrick Mahomes leading the way at quarterback. If the team hits its stride, they remain a top contender for the division and the conference playoffs.
Los Angeles Chargers
2026 Record: 8-9
The Chargers enter 2026 as an offseason narrative favorite, partly due to Mike McDaniel’s influence as offensive coordinator, which is expected to reshape the offense around Justin Herbert. Herbert should enjoy a productive year, with a weapons group featuring Omariom Hampton, Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, and Keaton Mitchell.
However, questions remain on the interior offensive line and the defensive coaching staff, with Chris O’Leary taking over play-calling duties on defense. There are injury histories to monitor, including potential depth challenges at center and other spots. While the talent is there to compete, the team may still finish below the top of the division due to durability concerns and a defense that needs to prove it can hold up against strong divisions rivals.
Las Vegas Raiders
2026 Record: 6-11
The Raiders show progress under the leadership changes and a notable pick at quarterback, with a plan centered around long-term development. Early in the year, Kirk Cousins is expected to start, with quarterback Fernando Mendoza eventually shifting the focus for the offense. The offense appears improved, especially along the offensive line with the addition of Tyler Linderbaum, and Ashton Jeanty should provide run-game efficiency.
Nonetheless, the receiving corps remains a concern, and the defense needs to develop more consistency. The edge room outside Crosby has to generate more pressure, the interior defensive line is a work in progress, and the secondary remains relatively unproven. With those gaps, the Raiders are likely to finish toward the bottom of the division, though there is upside as the team continues to rebuild.
Notes:
– The division standings and team outlook reflect projected gains from coaching changes, draft acquisitions, and key injuries from recent seasons.
– Specific player performance and in-season adjustments can influence outcomes, but the above projections emphasize organizational depth, fit within systems, and expected roster evolution.
This forecast highlights a competitive AFC West in 2026, with Denver and Kansas City positioned to contend for top seeds, the Chargers aiming to rebound with a dynamic offense, and the Raiders and Chargers navigating rebuilding phases while pursuing long-term improvements.
