3 reasons the Chargers can shock the Chiefs (and the world) by winning the AFC West

3. Patrick Mahomes has never had less talent around him on offense

Last season proved that Patrick Mahomes isn't just the best quarterback in the sport but is on an entirely different planet. Many wondered what level Mahomes would be able to reach without Tyreek Hill and all Mahomes did was go out and win the MVP and Super Bowl.

There is no denying that Mahomes is elite and he is naturally going to elevate the rest of the roster. That being said, this is still the least talented offensive unit that Mahomes has ever played with. At some point, Mahomes can only do so much.

The offensive line should still be well above average but there is a chance that the two tackle positions are far worse than a year ago. Having two new offensive tackles doesn't always end well, even if it has worked out for the Chiefs in the past.

The receiving corps is even worse than it was last year as the Chiefs have lost Juju Smith-Schuster and Mecole Hardman. Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Kadarius Toney and Skyy Moore are the three best receivers on the Chiefs. There is a world in which those three are wildly disappointing.

Travis Kelce is elite and is the best pass-catching tight end in NFL history. But he is turning 34 early in the 2023 season. No tight end since the NFL-AFL merger has ever recorded 1,000 receiving yards at 34 years old or older. If Kelce were to fall under 1,000 yards it would represent a dip of 400 receiving yards. That is a big deal.

As mentioned, the Chiefs are still the rightful favorites as they have consistently been at the top of the mountain while having the best quarterback of his generation. But for the first time in a long time, the Chargers actually should like their chances.