3. Los Angeles Chargers
Every year for many years, it seems, there is a lot of preseason hope and hype regarding the Los Angeles Chargers. And every year, it seems, injuries derail that hope and hype. Chargers fans are beyond sick of it, and they're hoping that trend finally ends in 2023.
A popular pick to win MVP this year has to be Justin Herbert, who is coming off a fresh contract extension and enters this season with more weapons than he's ever had before. He'll be throwing the ball to the trusty veteran, Keenan Allen, a deep threat and big play guy like Mike Williams, and the rookie first-round pick Quentin Johnston.
Let's not forget, the Chargers have one of the best all-around backs in football, too, in Austin Ekeler. That offense is going to score a lot of points if they can keep health on their side.
Speaking of health being on their side, the defense is no different. The Chargers have tons of talent on that side of the ball, from Joey Bosa to Derwin James to Khalil Mack, among others. If they can keep most of those guys healthy, their defense should finally be able to finish where it's capable of finishing.
Lastly, head coach Brandon Staley has to be on the hot seat this year. With that pressure behind he and the team, the Chargers should be ready to truly threaten the AFC.