Best defenses in the AFC West
By: Jake Rajala
The AFC West is known for explosive offenses with Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, Bo Nix, and Geno Smith. Let it also be known, each QB has a defense that can keep them in the game and often lead them to victory. It may come across as surprising to hear that the best defenses on this list rank well among all 32 teams! Without further ado, here is the hierarchy of AFC West defenses.
4. Las Vegas Raiders
The Eastern Michigan tribute to Maxx Crosby (by naming their stadium after him) didn’t lift him up and make him win DPOY. Crosby had a slightly below charactersitic performance in 2024. There wasn’t any help for Crosby. This is why they ranked 22nd in sacks! The combination of poor talent and a lack of continuity led the Raiders to be 25th in PPG allowed.
3. Kansas City Chiefs
If you give Patrick Mahomes a Top-10 defense, he will win 15 regular season games! His defense ranked sixth in PPG allowed and 10th in rushing yards per game allowed. Their leader in the Chiefs charge is none other than Chris Jones. PFF recently dubbed him as the best DT in the game!
2. Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers have an incredible defense. They are led by Khalil Mack and Derwin James. They lost Joey Bosa, but they shouldn’t lose a step, especially with Bosa being hurt all the time. Due to this combo of a stout front seven with an impeccable secondary, they ranked second in PPG. They also were seventh in sacks. Even Derwin had 5.5 sacks! Then they were seventh in passing yards per game allowed.
1. Denver Broncos
Not only did Denver have a Top-3 defense in PPG allowed, but they ranked first in sacks. A defense with an elite pass rush can properly compete against the likes of Patrick Mahomes. They sacked Mahomes four times in their loss, which came by a score of 16-14. I have to give a lot of effort for the Broncos effort. The Broncos were also fifth in rushing yards per game allowed.
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