AFC West Power Rankings After Week 13: Broncos Take Control, Chiefs in Unfamiliar Territory
With Week 13 in the books, the AFC West landscape looks dramatically different than what we’ve come to expect over the past decade. For nine straight seasons, the Kansas City Chiefs have ruled the division - a dynasty built on elite quarterback play, creative offense, and timely defense. But now, with just a few weeks left in the regular season, they find themselves in unfamiliar territory: third place in their own division and facing a steep climb just to make the playoffs.
Let’s dive into the updated AFC West power rankings and break down where each team stands after a chaotic Week 13.
4. Las Vegas Raiders (2-10)
It’s been a tough year in Las Vegas, and Week 13 only added to the frustration. The Raiders are spiraling, and the issues run deep - from inconsistent quarterback play to a defense that can’t get off the field, this team is struggling in every phase.
After an offseason filled with change, the hope was that a new direction would bring new results. Instead, the Raiders look stuck in neutral.
There’s no identity on offense, no rhythm, and no real sign of progress. The defense, which was expected to be a strength, has also faltered under pressure.
At 2-10, the Raiders are firmly in rebuild mode - again. And while there’s still time to evaluate young talent and build for the future, it’s clear this team needs another offseason overhaul to get back on track.
3. Kansas City Chiefs (6-6)
The Chiefs are used to being the hunted. Now, they’re the ones doing the chasing - and they’re running out of road.
Kansas City’s loss in Week 13 dropped them to .500, and while that might not sound alarming on its own, the context matters. This is a team that used to dominate close games.
In 2024, they were nearly automatic in one-score contests. Fast forward to this season, and those same games are slipping through their fingers.
The talent gap is starting to show. The roster, once loaded with playmakers, now looks average in too many spots. The offensive line has been inconsistent, the wide receivers haven’t stepped up, and the defense - while solid - hasn’t been able to carry the load.
General Manager Brett Veach’s recent personnel moves are under the microscope, and with the Chiefs now four games behind the division leader, the margin for error is gone. Even if they win out, a playoff berth isn’t guaranteed. For a team that’s been the class of the AFC for years, that’s a stunning reality.
2. Los Angeles Chargers (8-4)
The Chargers took care of business in Week 13, beating the Raiders to stay firmly in the playoff mix. But the win came at a cost.
Quarterback Justin Herbert suffered a broken non-throwing hand, and while it’s not season-ending, it does put his immediate availability in question. That’s a major concern for a team that leans heavily on his arm and leadership to stay competitive.
Even with Herbert, the Chargers have their flaws. The offensive line has struggled to protect him consistently, and the depth across the roster isn’t where it needs to be for a deep postseason run. They’ve got enough talent to secure a Wild Card spot, but unless they get healthier and more consistent, it’s hard to see this team making serious noise in January.
Still, at 8-4, they’re in a strong position. If they can weather the next few weeks and get Herbert back to full strength, they’ll be a tough out.
1. Denver Broncos (10-2)
Don’t look now, but the Denver Broncos have become one of the NFL’s hottest teams - and they’re not just winning, they’re finding ways to win in all kinds of situations.
Their Week 13 overtime victory over the Commanders marked their ninth straight win, and while it wasn’t perfect, it was another example of this team’s resilience. Bo Nix continues to impress in high-pressure moments. The rookie quarterback has shown poise well beyond his years, and once again delivered when his team needed him most.
The defense had an off night by their standards, but the offense picked up the slack - a sign of a well-rounded team that can adapt on the fly. And while there have been moments where Denver has played down to its competition, the bottom line is this: 10-2 is 10-2. You don’t get there by accident.
Right now, the Broncos are not only in control of the AFC West - they’re making a strong case for a top seed in the conference. With momentum on their side and a balanced roster, Denver is peaking at the right time.
Final Thoughts
The AFC West has been flipped on its head. The Raiders are in freefall.
The Chiefs are fighting to stay afloat. The Chargers are hanging tough but have injury concerns.
And the Broncos? They’re playing like the team to beat.
If this division has taught us anything over the years, it’s to expect the unexpected. But as it stands after Week 13, there’s a new sheriff in town - and for the first time in nearly a decade, it’s not Kansas City.