The AFC West is going to be one of the most interesting divisions in football entering the 2026 NFL season. We've made our picks for the top 4 potential breakout candidates in the division leading up to the season. Top 4 AFC West breakout player candidates for the 2026 NFL seasonDenver Broncos: Jonah Elliss, EDGEIf there's one thing the Denver Broncos do better than pretty much every other NFL team, it's developing pass rushers. Although Elliss has played a significant role as a reserve for the Broncos, the team is looking to expand his role in 2026. Hampton himself missed 8 games during his rookie season with an ankle fracture, and on top of it all, the Chargers' offensive line struggled badly with injuries.