The biggest story rocking the AFC West right now has got to be Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix and his ankle. The dude suffered a *significant* injury against the Buffalo Bills back in the AFC Championship Game, and you can bet everyone’s watching his recovery like a hawk as training camps kick off. Seriously, this isn’t just some nagging bruise; this is a game-changer for the entire division. Even with that injury looming, Nix still snagged the No. 59 spot in the “NFL Top 100” after his breakout season. That’s some serious respect, right?
Broncos’ Offense: Who Steps Up Next to Nix?
Beyond Nix’s health, keep your eyes glued to wide receiver Pat Bryant. Before he got sidelined with a concussion last season, Bryant was absolutely becoming one of Nix’s go-to targets. Between him, Troy Franklin, and Marvin Mims Jr., it’s Bryant’s ability to win contested catches that really makes him stand out and should keep him earning opportunities. Plus, with former Miami Dolphins receiver Jaylen Waddle now in the mix, Bryant could see a lot more favorable one-on-one matchups. Broncos coach Sean Payton already loves what he sees, saying about Bryant, “He’s a quick study. He gets it real fast. I think one of his great skill sets is his run after the catch because his feet stay on the ground when he catches it. He’s got strong hands in traffic. He’s having a…” You know the rest, the man’s impressing!
The backfield in Denver is another place where things are heating up. Can RJ Harvey snatch that starting job? Veteran J.K. Dobbins re-signed on a one-year deal and led Denver’s backfield last season, but we all know injuries have been a recurring nightmare for him. After Dobbins went down, Harvey stepped up big time, racking up 96 rushing attempts from Week 11 right through the end of the season, a massive jump from his previous 50 carries. Harvey also brings more to the table in the passing game, making him super reliable on check-downs and wheel routes. If he keeps crushing it in camp, he’s definitely in line for a bigger share of the offense.
Raiders’ Big O-Line Gamble
Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders aren’t sitting still. They didn’t completely blow up their offensive line, but they definitely made some major upgrades. Bringing in former Baltimore Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum and former San Francisco 49ers guard Spencer Burford? Both are expected to start, and that’s a huge boost. The Raiders are also desperately hoping left tackle Kolton Miller gets back to full health. He missed most of last season after suffering a high ankle sprain and hairline fracture way back in Week 4. It’s a make-or-break situation for that front, and every snap in camp will be critical. We’ll also be watching former second-round pick Jackson Power.
So, as training camps get underway, the AFC West is already a powder keg. Will Nix’s ankle hold up? Can Bryant and Harvey break out? And how will those new pieces gel for the Raiders? These aren’t just preseason questions; these are the building blocks that will define who’s battling for position come fall.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Arrowhead Pride.
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