Who Will Claim the AFC West Crown in 2025-26?
Well, it is early September, and you all hopefully know what that means: football season is right around the corner. This year brings a lot of questions, and a lot of them are strictly regarding the AFC West Division specifically. This division consists of four teams: the Chiefs, Chargers, Broncos, and Raiders. All of these teams have promising futures and bring young stars to the modern-day football era.
With the Chiefs’ dynasty taking home every AFC West Championship for the past eight years, since 2015, when Peyton Manning was still in the Denver mountains throwing touchdowns. This seems incredibly difficult to believe, but to avid football fans, this is no shocker, especially if you were to tune in once per week to simply watch the Chiefs’ greatness. However, competition is slowly but surely starting to rise. The Chargers and Raiders both made the playoffs last season despite the Chiefs taking the top spot in the division.
Even though the AFC West is expected to be one of the more competitive divisions in the 2025 NFL season, Kansas City will still hold the most of the power. Notwithstanding concerns regarding aging stars and depth at critical areas, the Chiefs remain the favorite thanks to their championship heritage, outstanding quarterback, and successful coaching staff. With a formidable squad on both sides of the ball, the Los Angeles Chargers are still the most dangerous team if they can eventually turn talent into regular victories. Although Denver is fascinating after displaying glimpses of improvement the previous season, they will require greater quarterback steadiness in order to contend seriously. The Las Vegas Raiders, meanwhile, seem to be going through a transition as they rely on youthful players while making plans for the future. The division should ultimately be competitive, but Kansas City remains a stop on the path to the AFC West Championship.
In summary, the AFC West promises high-stakes football, drama, and talent once more, but the status quo might not shift as rapidly as some anticipate. Until proven differently, Kansas City is the squad to beat because of its winning culture and experience. While Denver keeps improving, but still has concerns at the most crucial position, the Chargers are the most likely contender if they can establish consistency. As they establish a more solid basis, Las Vegas looks to the future and nurtures new talent. The Chiefs continue to be the norm, but expect another close battle.
