Draft needs team by team (AFC West)

Everyone knows that the draft for many teams is very important, not only does it address certain key needs it also can set the stage to acquire a franchise player. Now as we have seen in the past there are many touted as ‘can’t miss prospects’ but they end up missing and many that fly under the radar and become solid players for a very long time. The key for many teams will be filling obvious needs that could eventually send them to the Super Bowl championship. Needless to say, this is not an easy task but what we want to do in these articles is to setup the immediate team needs and possible free agents for each. With the lockout in place, it could be a tough time for many players and teams but this could be an important time to find the missing piece of the puzzle that will lead to the big prize.

Denver Broncos

The big surprise was in last year’s draft where they took Tim Tebow as their first round draft choice and needless to say he was a huge hit in mile high country. With a new coach and a new attitude Denver looks to make a big splash this season.

Immediate Needs: Tight End, Defensive End, Cornerback, Offensive Guard

Most Important: Tight End, Defensive End, Cornerback

Top 2010 Free Agents: Bailey (CB), Vickerson (DT), Maroney (RB)

Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs looked to be the surprise team last season in the NFL, with Charles and Jones in the backfield they dominated on the ground but they need a little more in the receiving game. With a young defense KC could be a contender for years to come.

Immediate Needs: Tight End, Offensive Tackle, Center, Defensive Tackle, Linebacker, Free Safety

Most Important: Offensive Tackle, Defensive Tackle, Linebacker

Top 2010 Free Agents: Vrabel (LB), Edwards (DT), McGraw (FS), Hali (LB), O’Callaghan (OT), Wiegmann (C)

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Oakland Raiders

The Raiders did something not many teams if any have done before going undefeated in their division but not winning the division. Oakland really needs to fill needs on the defensive side of the ball but if they can improve offense that would be a plus.

Immediate Needs: Quarterback, Offensive Tackle, Offensive Guard, Defensive Tackle, Cornerback

Most Important: Cornerback, Quarterback, Offensive Guard, Offensive Tackle

Top 2010 Free Agents: Gradkowski (QB), Routt (CB), Asomugha (CB), Walker (OT), Seymour (DT), Brown (LB), Gallery (OT)

San Diego Chargers

With Phillip Rivers and his gun slinging play the Chargers looked to be on their way to a Super Bowl title, but enter contract talks and enter Vincent Jackson’s holdout. I will say that the others did step up and make big plays but no one could replace Jackson. The Chargers will be looking to improve and have all pieces in place for the new season.

Immediate Needs: Wide Receiver, Defensive End, Linebacker, Strong Safety

Most Important: Wide Receiver, Defensive End, Linebacker

Top 2010 Free Agents: Jackson (WR), Sproles (RB), McMichael (TE), Floyd (WR), Burnett (LB)

By Sam Adams
Pro Football Fans Staff Writer