Predicting Each NFL Division Standings: AFC South

The AFC South has historically been one of the worst divisions in the NFL. However, with some new and exciting quarterbacks coming into the division in recent years with C.J. Stroud, Trevor Lawrence, and Anthony Richardson, there is a sense of excitement for the future of the AFC South. However, are the AFC South teams ready to compete in a strong AFC Conference?

Houston Texans 11-6 (#3 Seed in the AFC)

The Houston Texans were the big shocker in the NFL last season after making a huge leap because of the contributions of Head Coach DeMeco Ryans and rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud taking control of the franchise. This offseason, the Texans made some good moves to secure Joe Mixon and Stefon Diggs to provide some veteran presence on a young roster. If C.J. Stroud can avoid falling victim to the sophomore slump, then the Texans should run through this division with relative ease and make a strong case to be the AFC representative in the Super Bowl this year.

Indianapolis Colts 9-8 (Miss the Playoffs)

The Colts will be coming into the season with a highly dynamic backfield with Jonathan Taylor and Anthony Richardson. However, this roster just isn’t ready to viably compete in the AFC yet. The offense line is very good, so I’d expect this team to be a top team on the ground. However, between the defense and the questionable nature of Anthony Richardson’s injury history, this team can not be depended upon to get into the playoffs this season.

Jacksonville Jaguars 8-9 (Miss the Playoffs)

The Jaguars have been hyped up as the favorite in this division in years past because they had Trevor Lawrence when no other team had a franchise quarterback. However, Trevor Lawrence has seemingly plateaued as a mediocre quarterback. The Jaguars had a lot of hope a few years ago, but as their primary pieces’ development has seemingly stalled out, they won’t be able to compete with the other teams in this division who are all on the rise.

Tennessee Titans 5-12 (Miss the Playoffs)

This offseason, the Titans lost several pieces of their identity including running back, Derrick Henry, and Head Coach, Mike Vrabel. This Titans team will now be shifting its identity from a power running team to a spread offense, led by Will Levis. They do have veteran receivers like DeAndre Hopkins and Calvin Ridley, but the real problem will be the consistency of Will Levis. Last season, Levis would have moments of brilliance, but more moments that left Titans fans scratching their heads. If Levis can become more consistent, then this could be a dark horse team in the AFC South.