In the AFC West, the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs are preparing for the upcoming season with several intriguing roster developments. Let's take a closer look at some notable position battles and key players to watch as the preseason gets underway.

Starting with the Broncos, there is a competition at the quarterback position. While Jarrett Stidham cannot be completely ruled out as a potential Week 1 starter, the Broncos are leaning towards Bo Nix, their No. 12 overall pick, who brings extensive college experience with 61 starts under his belt. The Broncos are confident in Nix's readiness and consider him the favorite for the opener.

Denver's backfield offers a mix of talent and options. Javonte Williams, who will be two years removed from ACL surgery in October, is expected to make an impact. Samaje Perine's abilities on third downs make him a valuable asset, while Jaleel McLaughlin adds explosiveness as a big-play option. Keep an eye on fifth-rounder Audric Estimé, who has the potential to challenge for a top spot.

Wide receiver battles are also heating up for the Broncos. Free-agent pickup Josh Reynolds and rookie Troy Franklin, brought in by Head Coach Sean Payton, are names to watch. Additionally, Tim Patrick aims to prove his fitness after missing two entire seasons due to injury.

At tight end, Greg Dulcich will share duties with Adam Trautman if he can stay healthy. Despite the uncertainty at center with Lloyd Cushenberry III out, the offensive line is considered a strength after performing better than expected last season.

Moving to the Chiefs, they face a significant question mark at left tackle. Last year's third-round pick, Wanya Morris, and this year's second-rounder, Kingsley Suamataia, will compete for the starting job, though the possibility of a veteran addition remains. The rest of the offensive line is solid, providing Patrick Mahomes and the coaching staff the flexibility to work around one developmental spot.

In the backfield, the Chiefs surprised some by re-signing Clyde Edwards-Helaire. While there are concerns about the overall depth, the team could still bring back free-agent Jerick McKinnon to bolster the running back situation.

The development of first-round receiver Xavier Worthy will be a crucial storyline for the Chiefs. Worthy's diverse route-running abilities have impressed, and with the potential return of Rashee Rice, the WR corps could be a significant strength for Kansas City.

Defensively, the Chiefs' front line is a force to be reckoned with. Led by Maxx Crosby and Christian Wilkins, the group provides depth and versatility. Look out for last year's first-rounder, Felix Anudike-Uzomah, to make an impact on the edge, while Charles Omenihu returns from a torn ACL.

At linebacker, the Chiefs have reliable options in Greg Dulcich and Drew Sanders. They will support Alex Singleton and Cody Barton in the interior, providing stability in the middle of the defense.

While the Chiefs boast a solid secondary, the cornerback and safety positions have some open spots. Pat Surtain II stands out as one of the best cornerbacks, but the overall unit needs strengthening to compete against elite offenses like Denver and Las Vegas.

In summary, both the Broncos and Chiefs are experiencing position battles and roster changes as they prepare for the upcoming season. The Broncos' focus is on finding their starting quarterback and building depth at wide receiver and running back. The Chiefs, on the other hand, seek stability on the offensive line and improvements in the secondary. As preseason games loom, football fans eagerly await the outcomes of these competitions and the emergence of key players that will shape their respective teams' success.