AFC West Roundup: Coaching Shifts, Defensive Overhauls, and a Star Pass Rusher Drawing League-Wide Interest
The AFC West is never short on storylines, and this offseason is already heating up with major developments in Denver, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas. From potential coaching transitions to big-money signings and trade buzz surrounding one of the league’s premier edge rushers, there’s plenty to unpack.
Broncos: Will Sean Payton Hand Over the Play Sheet?
There’s growing belief around the league that Sean Payton may eventually pass the play-calling baton to new offensive coordinator Davis Webb. And while nothing is imminent, this could be a gradual shift.
Payton has long been known for his offensive acumen, but with Webb stepping into a larger role, the Broncos might be laying the groundwork for a new structure in the offensive room. Webb, a former quarterback with a sharp football IQ, has earned respect quickly in coaching circles. If Payton does start to delegate play-calling responsibilities, it could signal a broader evolution in Denver’s offensive identity-one that leans more into Webb’s voice while still rooted in Payton’s proven system.
This kind of transition doesn’t happen overnight, especially with a head coach who’s made his name dialing up plays. But if it does unfold, it’ll be worth watching how the offense adapts and whether Webb can put his own stamp on things.
Chargers: A Defensive Identity in Motion
New Chargers defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary isn’t just stepping into a new role-he’s bringing a fresh philosophy with him. His message is clear: this defense won’t be static. It’s going to evolve.
“We’re going to elevate what we already do well,” O’Leary said. “Then we’re going to tailor the scheme to fit our players.” That’s exactly the kind of approach that resonates in today’s NFL, where flexibility and player-first scheming often separate good defenses from great ones.
O’Leary’s plan to adapt the scheme to his personnel is a smart move for a Chargers team that has talent but hasn’t consistently put it all together on that side of the ball. Expect more hybrid looks, more creativity, and a system that plays to the strengths of stars like Derwin James and Joey Bosa.
The team is also expected to bring in Vanderbilt nickel coach Jimmy Thompson to work with the defensive backs-a move that further signals a commitment to refining the secondary and building a scheme that can thrive in the modern, pass-heavy NFL.
Teair Tart Cashes In
On the personnel side, the Chargers made a significant investment in their defensive front, locking up defensive lineman Teair Tart with a three-year, $30 million deal. The structure of the contract tells you just how much the team values him: $20 million guaranteed, with $15 million fully guaranteed at signing, plus a $6 million signing bonus.
Tart’s 2026 salary is fully guaranteed, and a chunk of his 2027 salary is already locked in as well. Add in per-game bonuses and up to $7.5 million in incentives, and this deal reflects both belief in Tart’s impact and a bet on his continued growth.
For a Chargers defense looking to get tougher in the trenches and more disruptive up front, Tart’s presence should be a key piece of the puzzle.
Raiders: Maxx Crosby Drawing Heavy Trade Interest
If-and this is still an “if”-the Raiders were to make Maxx Crosby available via trade, the market would be white-hot. According to league buzz, anywhere from 12 to 20 teams would be lining up to make a call, including contenders like the Bills, Buccaneers, Lions, 49ers, Cowboys, and Ravens.
Crosby is more than just a sack artist-he’s a relentless motor, a tone-setter, and the heart of the Raiders’ defense. It’s no surprise that so many teams would be interested if he were to hit the block.
But that’s a massive "if." Moving a player of Crosby’s caliber would be a seismic decision for the Raiders, one that would signal a shift in organizational direction.
Still, the level of interest alone speaks volumes about Crosby’s standing around the league. He’s not just respected-he’s coveted.
Final Word
The AFC West is always one of the most compelling divisions in football, and this offseason is already delivering its share of intrigue. Whether it’s coaching dynamics in Denver, schematic shifts in L.A., or trade whispers in Vegas, the groundwork is being laid for a fascinating 2026 season. Stay tuned-this division rarely stays quiet for long.