NFL Draft 2015: AFC West Analysis

After months of player analysis, mock drafts and speculative trade rumors, the 2015 NFL draft has now come and gone. From Danny Shelton’s bear hug to Jim Kelly’s standing ovation, there were many moments to remember over the last few days. And now, the excitement begins to build to see how the new additions will cope with the pressures of the National Football League.

Last year the Chiefs produced a solid 9–7 season, just behind the Broncos in the race to win the AFC West. But after a strong, free-agency period where they managed to franchise tag Justin Houston, sign wide receiver Jeremy Maclin and acquire Ben Grubbs via a trade with the Saints, the Chiefs have aspirations to win the AFC West division for the first time since 2010.

The AFC West is considered to be one of the most wide-open divisions; the Chiefs, Chargers and Broncos all have reasonable shots at winning the division, and the Raiders will most certainly be better than their dismal 3–13 season last year. All four teams have addressed various needs through the draft, with the Chargers and Broncos being particularly aggressive in the first round. But what have the Chiefs’ rivals produced in the draft and can anyone steal the divisional bragging rights from Denver?

Let’s take a look…

Next: Where do the Broncos stand?