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Broncos Underestimated Despite AFC Title Game Berth
24 Jul
Summary
- Broncos are 3rd in AFC West odds despite a 14-3 record.
- Mahomes and Nix are recovering from serious injuries.
- Broncos snapped Chiefs' 9-year AFC West title streak.
The Denver Broncos, coming off a dominant 14-3 regular season and a No. 1 AFC playoff seed, face surprising skepticism from oddsmakers. DraftKings ranks them third in AFC West odds, trailing the Chiefs and Chargers. This perception comes despite the Broncos returning nearly their entire roster from their AFC Championship Game appearance.
The Week 1 Monday Night Football matchup between the Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs on September 14 is highly anticipated, partly due to significant injury concerns for both starting quarterbacks. Broncos' third-year QB Bo Nix is recovering from a fractured ankle, while Chiefs' two-time MVP Patrick Mahomes is aiming to return from an ACL tear suffered in Week 15 of the 2025 season.
The Broncos achieved a major feat in 2025 by ending the Chiefs' nine-year AFC West Division championship streak. Mahomes, determined to play in this pivotal season opener, stated his goal is to be ready for Week 1, acknowledging the decision rests with doctors and coaches. His drive is fueled by the Broncos dethroning the Chiefs and his desire to compete against top teams.
This season opener highlights the rising profile of the Broncos, alongside the established draw of the Chiefs. Despite Kansas City's 6-11 record last season, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2014, their games, particularly with Mahomes, remain a significant box-office attraction. Some social media sentiment suggests a complete shift in AFC West power dynamics.
