Predicting each NFL division winner for the 2019 season
By Zach Cohen
AFC West: Kansas City Chiefs
Outlook: This was a tricky division to decide because, while the Chiefs might be the AFC’s best team, there’s a strong case to be made that the Los Angeles Chargers are not far behind. After all, both finished 12-4 a year ago, yet it was the Chiefs who secured the first seed in the playoffs.
Offense: Fast forward to this season and the only thing different from the league-leading, mind-blowing offense is the loss of running back Kareem Hunt. Damien Williams filled in nicely as Hunt’s replacement but he’s not as talented as his predecessor.
The offense was already loaded with weapons, like speedy wide receiver Tyreek Hill and tight end Travis Kelce. Nonetheless, Kansas City brought in some new guys to add depth to help their MVP quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. Maybe you’ve heard of him?
Defense: The additions didn’t stop on offense as the defense got a massive facelift. Second-team All-Pro Chris Jones is joined by Frank Clark along the defensive line, while safety Eric Berry was replaced with Tyrann Mathieu. The team also signed cornerback Baushad Breeland to boost a secondary that was tied for seventh with the most passing touchdowns allowed. The offense may get all the spotlight in Kansas City, but the defense could be the team’s best in years.
Competition: This is still a good-looking, championship-worthy roster. The only hope the Chargers have at overtaking the Chiefs is by staying healthy. Los Angeles has a very well-balanced roster, even with star running back Melvin Gordon holding out for a new contract. It wouldn’t be a surprise if the Chargers won the division.
The new-look Oakland Raiders certainly make for good reality TV, but there’s still some questions regarding their new personnel (Antonio Brown, anyone?). While the Chiefs get the slight nod over the Chargers, both could easily finish the year as the best two teams in the conference.