San Diego Chargers Have Done the Most to Close the Gap on Denver Broncos

The San Diego Chargers have done the most during this offseason to close the gap on the Denver Broncos. The reigning AFC West champions may have only required an 8-8 mark to take the title last season, but that record belied the Broncos' fearsome defense and powerful running game.

By signing Peyton Manning, Denver turned the small gap between themselves and the other contenders in the West, into a chasm. At least, that's the way it appeared on paper.

However, the Chargers can feel extremely confident of returning to the division's summit this season. On offense, they may miss big-play specialist Vincent Jackson. Yet, despite Jackson's considerable talent, his contract situation had become a distraction that the team should now be glad to be without.

Free agency saw them smartly add two young speedsters in the form of Eddie Royal and Robert Meachem. Both of whom can combine to provide the deep outlet Jackson specialised in.

Bringing back Jared Gaither was a wise move, since the offensive line has been frequently undermined by the consistent injuries to Marcus McNeill. Mike Tolbert bolted to the Carolina Panthers, but veteran Le'Ron McClain can perform a similar multi-purpose role.

The draft yielded a true steal in Round 4, in the shape of Louisiana-Lafayette tight end Ladarius Green. His size and athleticism make him the natural long-term successor to the great Antonio Gates.

As well as the Chargers did keeping their offense strong, the moves on defense really defined the offseason. Landing Jarrett Johnson was a free-agency coup. His size and versatility could allow Shaun Phillips to move back inside and should also prevent the defense from being trampled all over by the Oakland Raiders' power running game.

Melvin Ingram was a bold selection in the draft and can combine with the underrated Antwan Barnes to give the defense bookend pass-rushers. They have the flexibility to be used from a variety of sub-packages and will help San Diego utilise multiple fronts to confuse Manning.

Kendall Reyes was an excellent second-round selection. He will make the Chargers more stout up front and can be moved anywhere along the line. Getting pressure inside is crucial against Manning and Reyes, Corey Liuget and Antonio Garay can do just that.

Ultimately, the mental aspects will no doubt determine the prospects of a team that often seems to have a fragile psyche. However, with all of the hype focused on Manning and the Broncos, the Chargers might actually benefit from flying under the radar for a change.

There's no doubt they have made themselves strong favourites for the AFC West, with a superb offseason so far.