@TheFrizz87 and I have been putting together lists of every NFL division’s sleeper picks for the 2017 season. This time we will focus on the AFC West which contains Denver, Kansas City, Los Angeles (Chargers), and Oakland. This division is easily one of the best in AFC at the moment. The rosters that these four teams have right now are phenomenal. With that being said here are the AFC West Team’s sleeper picks for 2017.
Denver Broncos – QB Trevor Siemian
DENVER, CO – AUGUST 26: Quarterback Trevor Siemian #13 of the Denver Broncos warms up before a Preseason game against the Green Bay Packers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on August 26, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
The Denver Broncos have a great defense, but their offense took a huge step back in 2016. It all started when they named Trevor Siemian their guy for week one. Siemian is a game manager, but is nothing compared to the quarterback Denver had before. Now with a full year of starting under his belt, he could be set to take a big step.
With the talent that Siemian has for a receiving core there is no excuse why he shouldn’t improve in 2017. Look for Siemian to be a QB2, with a chance at QB1 in the deeper leagues depending on how he progresses.
Kansas City Chiefs – WR Chris Conley
SEATTLE, WA – AUGUST 25: Wide receiver Chris Conley #17 of the Kansas City Chiefs looks on prior to the game against the Seattle Seahawks at CenturyLink Field on August 25, 2017 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)
The number two receiver on the Kansas City depth chart is not being talked about at all. Chris Conley is a very fast receiver that can be a good solid fantasy sleeper in 2017. Everyone is talking about his counter part Tyreek Hill, and nobody is talking about Conley. If Alex Smith can get Conley the ball he looks like a good flex option in deeper leagues.
With his great route running abilities Conley could be the receiver that Kansas City needs. He is still very young at the age of 24, and can be a good asset for the Chiefs. Look to hear more about Conley as the fantasy season progresses.
Los Angeles Chargers – TE Hunter Henry
SAN DIEGO, CA – JANUARY 01: Hunter Henry #86 of the San Diego Chargers goes into he end zone for a touchdown in the 4th quarter en route to their 37-27 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs during the 2nd half of a game at Qualcomm Stadium on January 1, 2017 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Donald Miralle/Getty Images)
Hunter Henry has been one of the most not talked about tight ends coming into the 2017 season. His inconsistency at times makes it better for teams to take advantage on drafting him in the later rounds. Henry is poised for a big season even though they will try to force the ball to Antonio Gates at certain times.
If Henry gets the touches, he is a very good solid TE2 option, with a huge TE1 upside. Look for Rivers to find different ways to get the talented tight end the football on offense. Also look for him in the later part of your fantasy draft.
Oakland Raiders – RB Jalen Richard
HOUSTON, TX – JANUARY 07: Jalen Richard #30 of the Oakland Raiders bobbles a kickoff return during the first half of the AFC Wild Card game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium on January 7, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
With Marshawn Lynch taking a year off, will he able to stay healthy for a full season. In case that he does not, or starts off slow you should keep a close eye on Jalen Richard. Richard is the backup running back for Oakland, and could be the starter if something happens to Lynch. He has sleeper written all over him, and could very well be a factor for some people’s fantasy teams.
Right now he is no more than a flex option, but if something happens to Lynch, he instantly bumps up to RB2, so keep a close eye on Richard this season.
