The AFC West is one of the most fascinating divisions heading into the 2026 NFL Draft — and every team has serious work to do. In this video, we break down the draft and free agency needs for all four teams in the AFC West.
Kansas City Chiefs — The Chiefs enter the offseason as the hungry underdog with a deteriorating roster that desperately needs a youthful infusion. After a free-agency exodus, defense is a major concern — Kansas City traded star cornerback Trent McDuffie and now holds two first-round picks (9th and 29th overall), making them a prime candidate to select cornerback help on night one. Pro Football Focus Can Mahomes carry this team back to the top?
Las Vegas Raiders — The Raiders own the #1 overall pick, and it’s almost certainly going to Fernando Mendoza. He’ll eventually get to throw to star tight end Brock Bowers, but the receiver room needs plenty of help. Sports Illustrated Their defensive interior is also a concern, and cornerback remains an area of focus despite retaining Eric Stokes and adding veteran Taron Johnson.
Denver Broncos — The Broncos made a blockbuster move acquiring wide receiver Jaylen Waddle from Miami, but it cost them their 1st and 3rd-round picks — leaving their top selection at pick 62 overall. Their tight end unit ranked last in the NFL in receiving grade in 2025, and they also lost interior pass rusher John Franklin-Myers in free agency. How does Sean Payton build around Bo Nix with limited draft capital?
Los Angeles Chargers — The Chargers’ defense was one of the best in the NFL last season, but defensive coordinator Jesse Minter parlayed that success into a head coaching position with the Ravens. The Chargers have been searching for wide receivers and offensive linemen since Jim Harbaugh was hired, and that search continues heading into the draft.
The 2026 AFC West race is wide open — drop your predictions in the comments below!
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