One X-factor for every NFL team heading into 2020

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JANUARY 12: Strong safety Tyrann Mathieu #32 of the Kansas City Chiefs reacts during player introductions before the AFC Divisional playoff game against the Houston Texans at Arrowhead Stadium on January 12, 2020 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Peter G. Aiken/Getty Images) /

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Noah Fant can be a weapon for Drew Lock. (Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images) /

Denver Broncos – Noah Fant

The Broncos are committed to doing everything they can to help Drew Lock succeed in 2020. Fant’s presence at the tight end position is a big part of the team’s roadmap to success.

Fant isn’t a good in-line blocker, but he’s an exceptional pass catcher. Denver will look to get him down the seam early and often this year. The more big plays he can make for Lock the better the Broncos will be.

Kansas City Chiefs – Tyrann Mathieu

It’s not an exaggeration to say that Mathieu’s arrival transformed the attitude of the Chiefs’ defense in 2019. Now Kansas City coaches hope the Honey Badger can reprise that role in 2020.

If he does, there’s no reason to doubt the Chiefs’ chances of successfully defending their Super Bowl title. Mathieu makes plays all over the field for his defense. His ability to stop running plays at the line of scrimmage and patrol center field against the pass makes him a unique weapon for the Chiefs.

Las Vegas Raiders – Darren Waller

The Raiders’ decision to bring in Jason Witten has made a lot of headlines this offseason. The reality is he’s an extra offensive tackle at this stage of his career. Waller is the guy the Raiders will rely on in their passing game.

After all, he broke out for 90 catches and 1,145 yards receiving last season. Las Vegas will be thrilled if he matches those totals again in 2020. He isn’t a quality blocker, but his combination of size and speed makes him a difference-maker for the Raiders’ offense.

Los Angeles Chargers – Justin Herbert

There’s growing chatter emanating from Los Angeles that claims Herbert is closer to seizing the starting job in Week 1 than most people expected. No matter what, it’s only a matter of time before he ousts Tyrod Taylor.

His ability to play decent football as a rookie will determine whether or not the Chargers can stay in the playoff picture. The odds are stacked against him playing well immediately, but he’s got some intriguing physical tools. Unfortunately for Anthony Lynn, he probably won’t be the sort of X-factor required to save his job as the team’s head coach.

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