ESPN NFL

Posted by ESPN.com’s Bill Williamson

Denver

Teammates are impressed by rookie quarterback Tom Brandstater.

My take: Denver needs to work hard to develop this kid. Let’s face it: Brandstater is the most intriguing quarterback on Denver’s roster. We know what Kyle Orton and Chris Simms are. They are journeyman who are short-term fixes. We don’t know what Brandstater is yet. The sixth-round pick from Fresno State played well in the preseason. He is an interesting prospect.

Kansas City

The Chiefs' defense appears ready for the season.

My take: Kansas City will need its defense if it has any chance of staying in games. The offense has big issues on the line and at receiver, so scoring may be difficult. So, the Chiefs’ defense needs to buckle down. The Chiefs are expecting a lot of 13-10, 17-13 games. Kansas City’s defense was impressive in the preseason. Now it has to carry the weight in the regular season.

Oakland

The Raiders think their defense will be much improved as a result of the Richard Seymour trade.

My take: That’s the whole idea of this blockbuster trade. Seymour will surely help Oakland’s run defense and he is a solid pass-rusher. Seymour may be leaving his prime, but he is still a premier player. Oakland’s defense will improve for the short term because of this trade.

San Diego

Shawne Merriman released a statement following his arrest for battery and false imprisonment.

My take: Let’s let the legal process play out and go from there.