Inside the AFC

AFC FOCUS: Offensive adjustments

New Jets coordinator Mike Heimerdinger wants the tight end to be a viable component in the passing game. Last year, that position accounted for only 31 receptions. Heimerdinger's 2004 Titans offense featured three tight ends with at least 25 receptions. The key for the Jets is newcomer Doug Jolley, who has the skills to catch 40 to 50 bails. A presence in the middle of the field would reduce the pressure on WRs Laveranues Coles and Justin McCareins. ... Not only are the Bills planning to make use of QB J.P. Losman's mobility by calling more pass plays that get him out of the pocket, but they also want to work in some designed runs for him. Losman's athleticism should keep defenses guessing. ... The Broncos want to use TEs Jeb Putzier, Stephen Alexander and Nate Jackson more as downfield receivers than as dump-off targets. All three have the speed to beat linebackers in coverage. Putzier, in particular, can be the type of downfield threat Shannon Sharpe once was. ... Dolphins WR Chris Chambers estimates that about 90 percent of the team's new route adjustments for blitzes or odd coverages are designed to go deep. New coordinator Scott Linehan isn't afraid to be aggressive; former coach Dave Wannstedt leaned toward a more conservative approach. ... The Chargers could use rookie RB Darren Sproles as a slot receiver. He is only 5-6 but is quick and shifty. He will team with TE Antonio Gates (81 receptions in 2004) and RB LaDainian Tomlinson (53) to give the Chargers explosive pass-catching options beyond the wide receivers. ... Colts coordinator Tom Moore believes in using his personnel to the best of their ability rather than being married to a particular system. So even though he has used a lot of two-tight end sets in recent seasons, he might veer away from them now that TE Marcus Pollard is gone. This should get Brandon Stokley on the field more in three-wideout formations. Stokley can break a big play at any time working out of the slot. ... The Chiefs might work in more two-tight end sets so they can get Kris Wilson more involved. He can line up in a variety of spots--in the backfield, on the line, in the slot or even split wide. Opponents could have a difficult time covering both him and Tony Gonzalez.

UNIT ANALYSIS: Wide receivers

A Marvin Harrison, Reggie Wayne and Brandon Stokley set the NFL standard.

A Randy Moss is the NFL's best deep threat; Jerry Porter is a No. 1-type receiver.

A- Chad Johnson is a star; T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Peter Warrick move the chains.

B Derrick Mason and Mark Clayton are major upgrades, and there are good prospects.

B Eric Moulds and Lee Evans are an explosive duo, and there is solid depth.

B Chris Chambers could be great; Marty Booker is solid. Can David Boston help?

B Deion Branch is a big-game player; David Givens is solid. Watch out for P.K. Sam.

B Laveranues Coles and Justin McCareins are physical and can make catches anywhere.

B Hines Ward does it all; Antwaan Randle El or Cedrick Wilson needs to step up.