We wrap up the AFC today as we look at the breakout candidates from the AFC West. Perhaps the weakest division in football the AFC West has some players flying under the radar players that the casual fan won’t know but they are ready to make a name for themselves. Don’t forget to check out the other AFC divisions here, here, and here. Come back to see the NFC divisions.
Denver Broncos- Kyle Orton
Playing under Josh McDaniels should benefit Orton and his neckbeard.
Most fans know Orton form his Chicago days but I think the change of scenery will be good for him. Orton came over to the Broncos in the much publicized Jay Cutler trade as somewhat of an afterthought. But baring any last minute collapse Orton will be the starter come week one. In Chicago Orton did not put up great numbers but he found a way to win and did not have the greatest weapons. In Denver he will have Brandon Marshall and Eddie Royal, both of whom caught at least 90 balls last year, at wideout providing a huge upgrade. Also and perhaps more importantly he will be playing in Josh McDaniels system which helped propel Matt Casel from clipboard holder into NFL star.
Kansas City Chiefs- Brandon Carr
As a rookie last year Carr did a solid job at corner for the Chiefs. A fourth rounder from little known Grand Valey State he was one of the bright spots on a lowly Chiefs team. While fellow corner Brandon Flowers gets more publicity Carr may be the better of the two. The change in defensive schemes may be the only thing holding back Carr from being a shutdown corner.
Oakland Raiders- Zach Miller
Miller put together a solid season last year and will look to build on it this coming season. He emergered as JaMarcus Russell’s favorite target late last season and they developed a nice chemistry which will only get better. Miller scored only scored one touchdown last year but that number should jump this year. He could make the jump into the upper echilan of tight ends this year.
San Diego Chargers- Eric Weedle
Safety has been the Achilles heel for the Chargers the past few seasons but Weedle looks like the real deal. The third year player from Utah has shown flashes in his first two years and looks ready to step up And be a leader in the secondary. He is a true playmaker and will play more in coverage this year than in the box allowing him to show his skills. An improved Weedle and a healthy Shawne Merriman would put the Chargers defense back in elite company.
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