Divisional Battles Begin in the Preseason

The NFL season is a series of battles, and none are more important than those within the division. While preseason games don't count, they offer a crucial first look at the teams vying for a spot at the top. This week, we're zeroing in on two of the league's most compelling divisions: the AFC West and the NFC East. From quarterback competitions to player health, the stories emerging from training camps and exhibition games will shape the narrative of the 2025 season.

Let's break down the key updates from each team.

The AFC West: The Chiefs' Reign and the Challengers

The AFC West is still a division that runs through the Kansas City Chiefs. After a quiet preseason for their starters, the Chiefs will be looking to get into a rhythm this week. Their upcoming game will provide a key look at their backups and role players as they prepare to defend their divisional title.

  • The Denver Broncos have a new head coach, and the team is hoping to find an identity on both sides of the ball. The performance of their young offensive players in the preseason has been a major storyline, and they will need to step up if they want to compete in this stacked division.

  • The Las Vegas Raiders have shown some flashes of promise, but their offense has looked inconsistent in their preseason games. They will need to find a way to get their star players involved if they hope to challenge the Chiefs.

  • The Los Angeles Chargers are a team to watch, as they have a new offensive coordinator and a lot of talent on both sides of the ball. Their preseason performance has been a good sign, and they could be a dark horse contender for a playoff spot.

The NFC East: Every Game is a Rivalry

The NFC East is always a tough, competitive division, and this year is no different. The Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys are considered the favorites, but the other two teams are not to be counted out.

  • The Philadelphia Eagles have been making moves to fortify their roster, including recent trades and roster cuts. Their veteran talent has been on full display in the preseason, and they are preparing for a tough road ahead.

  • The New York Giants and their new quarterback, Jaxson Dart, have been a surprise storyline. The rookie has shown poise and promise in his preseason outings, and he's made a strong case for early playing time.

  • The Dallas Cowboys are always a team to watch, and their preseason performance has shown both their talent and some of their vulnerabilities. They will need to shore up their offensive line if they want to succeed in a division with a lot of strong pass rushers.

  • The Washington Commanders are in a rebuilding phase, and their preseason games have been about evaluating new talent. They have a lot of new faces on the roster, and the coaching staff is still figuring out how to make all the pieces fit together.

AFC South: The Under-the-Radar Contenders

  • The Jacksonville Jaguars have been a major preseason topic, with their defensive line getting stronger as key players return from injury. Their recent joint practices with the Dolphins have been a key part of their preparations for the upcoming season.

  • The Tennessee Titans have also been in the news with the return of cornerback L'Jarius Sneed from the PUP list. The two-time Super Bowl champion's health is critical for a defense that is relying on him to be a major playmaker.

Conclusion: The Road to the Playoffs Starts Now

From the Kansas City Chiefs' pursuit of a third straight AFC championship to the Philadelphia Eagles' quest to win the NFC, the road to the playoffs is already taking shape. The preseason is about more than just a single game; it's about building a foundation for the regular season. The key storylines from the Denver Broncos, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Chargers, Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, and Washington Commanders will all play a crucial role in how their seasons unfold.