For the first time in several seasons, the AFC West doesn’t look like an absolute sure thing at books like BetUS.

Sure, the San Diego Chargers are by far the most talented team in the division, but some contract holdouts could bring them closer to the competition’s level. Denver flashed potential last season; the Raiders and Chiefs both got better this offseason. Is the AFC West up for grabs?

San Diego Chargers

BetUS odds: -325

If left tackle Marcus McNeill and No. 1 receiver Vincent Jackson end their holdouts – which are expected to last until Week 10 – the Chargers win the AFC West in a walk again. Even if those two star offensive contributors don’t return, San Diego still has a leg up on the division.

The LaDainian Tomlinson era is over and, considering his age, the Chargers should be better for it. They drafted big Ryan Mathews to be their featured back. Phillip Rivers is a more than capable, if not elite, quarterback, and San Diego also defends the pass well. The pros greatly outweigh the cons for the Chargers.

Denver Broncos

BetUS odds: +600

The Broncos’ 6-0 start last year should’ve been something for them to build on, but the 2010 offseason has been disastrous. Brandon Marshall was shipped to Miami and Elvis Dumervil, their most important defensive player, tore his pectoral muscle during training camp. Denver’s passing game is developmental – Demaryius Thomas and Tim Tebow aren’t likely to make big impacts as rookies – and its pass rush loses major teeth without Dumervil. Arguably, the Broncos’ AFC West odds should slot behind those of Oakland and Kansas City.

Kansas City Chiefs

BetUS odds: +700

The Chiefs have a long way to go after winning two games last season, but they could sneak up on a few teams this year. New offensive co-ordinator Charlie Weis has some legit tools to work with; Jamaal Charles was the NFL’s best running back in the second half of 2009, wideout Dwyane Bowe has reportedly rededicated himself to fitness, and Thomas Jones should get goal-line work to keep Charles fresh.

The Chiefs’ “D” is still weak but they have a potential Defensive Rookie of the Year in safety Eric Berry on board. Considering K.C. lost eight games by a touchdown or less last season, it could surprise in NFL betting this year.

Oakland Raiders

BetUS odds: +750

For the first time in ages, the Raiders made logical moves during an offseason. They used their first-round pick smartly and safely on linebacker Rolando McClain, dumped quarterback JaMarcus Russell, and replaced him with Jason Campbell. Those two moves alone could do wonders for a team that had a devil of a time stopping the run and passing the ball a year ago.