AFC West Notes: Broncos, Chiefs, Raiders

Broncos

After a winless start to the season, the Broncos have now won two straight games following a 16-0 shutout of the Titans on Sunday. New HC Vic Fangio‘s defense is a major reason why, as the Broncos came alive for seven sacks and three forced turnovers in the shutout win. 

“We were very pumped,” Broncos CB Chris Harris said via Aric DiLalla of the team’s website. “We wanted a shutout. We were going for the shutout last weekend, but we, unfortunately, weren’t able to get that one. We were close though. We know defensively we’re getting better. We’re starting to click at the right time.”

• According to NFL Media’s James Palmer, the Broncos are optimistic WR Emmanuel Sanders will play this Thursday against the Chiefs. 

Chiefs

• According to NJ.com’s Matt Lombardo, the Giants and Chiefs could be potential trade partners for CB Janoris Jenkins.
• Kansas City needs secondary help and the Giants could free up time for younger corners by trading the veteran Jenkins. 
• The Chiefs are optimistic WR Sammy Watkins (hamstring) will be available Thursday night against the Broncos. (Ian Rapoport)

Raiders

• Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that many expect Jay Gruden to take the rest of the 2019 season off and then potentially resurface next season on the same staff as his brother, Raiders HC Jon Gruden.
• Schefter notes that the Raiders did not hire a quarterbacks coach this season and the position is still vacant on their staff. If the Raiders do, in fact, hire Jay Gruden, Schefter says this would be a perfect position for him.
• Raiders G Gabe Jackson returned to practice Monday for the first time since injuring his knee in training camp in early August. (Scott Bair)
• Jackson says his goal is to play this Sunday against the Packers, though it depends on how this week of practice goes. (Bair)
• Raiders third-round rookie CB Isaiah Johnson returned to practice Monday, making him one of Oakland’s two players designated to return from injured reserve. (Bair)
• Raiders WR/KR Dwayne Harris said he was close to returning in London but didn’t feel like himself running. Harris’ ankle is now feeling better and he practiced Monday and should be able to return this weekend. (Vic Tafur)