The Kansas City Chiefs no longer rule the AFC West. The Denver Broncos had one of the strongest defenses in the game last season. They gave up the second-fewest rushing yards per game (91.1), the fourth-fewest total yards per game (303.2), and the third-fewest points per game (18.3).
That's why John Franklin-Myers' leaving to join Robert Saleh and the Tennessee Titans on a three-year, $63 million deal was such a breath of fresh air for the entire AFC West, and especially for Andy Reid's team.
The Broncos' Stout Defense Took a Big Hit
Sean Payton's team didn't do anything to replace Franklin-Myers. They brought back Matt Henningsen, but he's more of a rotational piece, and he shouldn't move the needle on their physical 3-4 defense.
Franklin-Myers had a strong final season in Denver, registering 7.5 sacks, 15 QB hits, six tackles for loss, and 12 solo tackles in 16 appearances (15 starts). The Chiefs' offensive line is still a work in progress with no clear answer at right tackle, so having a prime headhunter like him out of the division is always a reason to celebrate, especially with Maxx Crosby not leaving the Las Vegas Raiders.
Patrick Mahomes is coming off the first major injury of his career, and even if he's back on the field in Week 1 like he wants, his mobility might be a bit limited in the first month of the season -- or maybe the entire campaign. The Chiefs still haven't added anyone to replace Jawaan Taylor, and keeping Mahomes out of harm's way should be the first order of business in Missouri.
The Chiefs lost both matchups against the Broncos last season. Even with the Week 17 loss coming with a third-string quarterback on the field, it was the first time the Broncos swept the Chiefs since 2014. Also, they've won four of their last five against the Chiefs after losing 16 in a row, so clearly, the power dynamic is changing.
The Broncos don't have a first-round pick in the 2026 draft, meaning they won't be on the clock until pick No. 62. Since they have $18.7 million in available cap space (via Over The Cap), they can still go after some veteran free agents like DJ Reader, Calais Campbell, Shelby Harris, or maybe even bring back Von Miller for one final blaze of glory. Regardless, for now, the Chiefs can only rejoice at the thought of one fewer defensive star to face twice a year.