The Denver Broncos have been methodical this offseason, initially focusing on retaining their core players. But the landscape shifted dramatically with a blockbuster trade for Jaylen Waddle, signaling their intent to make a serious Super Bowl push.
This strategic move suggests the Broncos believe they're just a couple of key pieces away from reaching the pinnacle. With their sights set on Super Bowl LX, they’re poised to be strong contenders in 2026. However, the path through the AFC West is anything but straightforward, with formidable opponents like the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers, and a much-improved Las Vegas Raiders squad.
AFC West Power Rankings Post-Free Agency
In a recent assessment by CBS Sports, the AFC West is described as "wide open." Despite the competitive landscape, the Broncos are currently ranked at the top.
Denver, who clinched the AFC's No. 1 seed last season, saw their Super Bowl dreams dashed in a tight AFC Championship loss to the Patriots, largely due to an injury to Bo Nix. The addition of Waddle gives them a dynamic weapon alongside Courtland Sutton, injecting fresh energy into their offense.
The Chargers, with significant cap space, have been surprisingly restrained in their offseason moves, leaving room for potential late additions. Meanwhile, the Chiefs face the challenge of filling gaps left by the departures of cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson, as they aim to bolster both their secondary and pass rush. The Raiders, despite being ranked fourth, have made notable improvements following a tumultuous season under Pete Carroll.
Broncos fans can take pride in their team’s top billing, but they know that preseason rankings are just that-rankings. The real test will be on the field. After a 2025 season that some skeptics labeled as a fluke, the Broncos are eager to prove their mettle.
With Jim Harbaugh leading a resurgent Chargers team and the Chiefs hungry for redemption, the Broncos will face challenges from the get-go. Sean Payton will need to leverage last season’s hard-earned experience and keep his squad healthy to repeat as division champions. If they can maintain their resilience, the Broncos will be a formidable force in the AFC West.