Earlier in the week, we ranked the offenses in the AFC West. Now, it’s time to check out how I view the defenses in this division as we get you primed for the season. Overall, I think the offenses are better in the division than the defense. However, I believe the defenses can be top
Ranking AFC West defenses
Hard to disagree with you here, Bill! I know I cried a little when I heard Denver draft Bradley Chubb. Now, Carr and company has to deal with Chubb/Miller and Bosa/Ingram. The addition of Derwin James in LA will probably make a huge difference in that defense–helping to give Bosa/Ingram more time to get to the QB. The loss of Talib and Peters in Denver and KC, respectively may hurt those defenses more than anyone anticipates now. You are correct that the Raiders’ defense is unknown (sadly, even with Mack). Hopefully, Guenther will make this unit better than it was last year.
I agree with the depth issue with our defense with one exception. I think our defensive line depth and competition is very promising. I think that both Hurst and Key have the potential to be special (I know potential never won a Superbowl much less a game), and our defensive line had the possibility of being as good as any in the division. Other quarterbacks from around the league that have to face the pass rushers in the AFC West are going to get beat up. I also think that was part of the logic in drafting the two tackles, being in a division with so many elite edge rushers.
Good stuff, Garrett.
I agree with your rankings Bill. Raiders defense is clearly last in the division. Having a legitimate DC with Guenther will help. In addition, the defensive line should be much improved.
The LB corps scares me. Whitehead and just a bunch of meh guys, including Johnson. No depth.
Secondary is ok. Younger players have to step up such as Obi.
Perfectly said, Ghost.