Denver Broncos
There’s not much missing from the Denver Broncos as they won the AFC West in 2012, however there are quite a few rumors out there that would significantly improve this already good team.
The Broncos have reportedly given defensive end Elvis Dumervil an ultimatum; either restructure his contract or be released. If Dumervil is indeed released, the Broncos have a plan, as they have shown a lot of interest in defensive end Dwight Freeney, who could be reunited with Peyton Manning in Denver if the Broncos decide to sign him.
It’s also been rumored that the Broncos have shown interest in 25-year-old running back Rashard Mendenhall. Despite his questionable behavior with the Pittsburgh Steelers, he could be the answer to Denver’s running back needs as he is young and could give the team peace of mind when thinking of Willis McGahee coming off his leg injury. Another running back the team is interested in is Steven Jackson, so it appears the Broncos will try and sign one this offseason.
San Diego Chargers
The San Diego Chargers need to improve their offensive line, and it has been rumored that 27-year-old offensive tackle, Sam Baker could be a target for the team.
There is also a lot of debate regarding guard Louis Vasquez, who has been with San Diego and is now a free agent. The team has reportedly shown a lot of interest in resigning him; however he has said he would like to test the free agent market. The Chargers need a guard so they will either resign Vasquez of find someone else to take his spot. They have shown interest in Andy Levitre, who has drawn interest from other teams as well.
The Chargers have released linebacker Takeo Spikes who they will also be looking to replace.
Oakland Raiders
Oakland Raiders general manager, Reggie McKenzie, enters his second season with the team and, again, won’t be making a big splash with the free agency market due to their limited cap space. However, there are a few rumors surrounding the team.
One of the main concerns entering this offseason for the Raiders has been the defense. They need improvement at the linebacker position and an early rumor had Nick Barnett as a potential target for the Raiders.
It’s also been rumored that the Raiders are working on a new contract with linebacker Philip Wheeler, but nothing is concrete and reports have stated he’s not sure if he’ll be back with Oakland next season. Tight end Brandon Myers is a free agent, who has apparently been waiting on the Raiders call to discuss a new contract. Myers is a player Oakland’s offense can’t afford to lose.
There hasn’t been any serious talks by the Raiders as their main priority is deciding who to release, who to keep, and how they can create more cap space.
Kansas City Chiefs
The last place Kansas City Chiefs have already made moves to improve their team in 2013 by making a trade with the San Francisco 49ers for quarterback Alex Smith, but they aren’t done yet as they look to improve their defense.
It’s been said that they will try to pursue one of the top defensive backs on the market and they have already shown interest in cornerback Sean Smith however there will be quite a bit of competition for him as he has drawn interest by other teams as well. They have already signed veteran cornerback Dunta Robinson (who met with Denver before signing with Kansas City) but having both backs would be beneficial to them if they are able to sign Smith as well.
They’ve also reached agreements with their top receiver Dwayne Bowe and punter Dustin Colquitt despite the rumors that they’d be lost in free agency.