AFC South Preview

 


We’ve made it to August, which means the NFL Season is just around the corner! Over the course of the month, I’ll be previewing each of the division races, looking at the teams in order of finish from 2025. Below, we continue with the AFC South. Let’s dive in!

Jacksonville Jaguars (13-4)
About: The Jaguars had just about everything break right for them in 2025. The team got a career year from Trevor Lawrence, while the Texans struggled early and the Colts struggled late. The Jaguars won 13 games and surged into the playoffs, where they fell in the Wild Card Round to the Buffalo Bills. This off-season, the team lost Travis Etienne, who signed with the Saints. That leaves a hole in the backfield. I am not sold on Bhayshul Tuten as a workhorse, though there aren't a lot of options. In the passing game, there are questions around Brian Thomas, Jr., while Travis Hunter will be the team's starting corner, meaning a diminished role likely on offense. That could mean bigger things for Parker Washington and Jakobi Myers. But can the Jaguars catch lightning in a bottle again?
Prediction: The Jaguars were a surprise division winner in 2025. I think they can still be a playoff team in 2026, but I have more questions.

Houston Texans (12-5)
About: The Texans started off terribly but rallied to close the year. They managed 12 wins and a Wild Card berth. The team beat the Steelers in the Wild Card round before falling short against the New England Patriots. This off-season, the team added David Montgomery to give them a good option in the backfield. He should replace the production the team lost when Joe Mixon was unavailable. In the passing game, the team needs the offensive line to come together and for a combination of Jayden Higgins, Jaylin Noel, and Tank Dell to step up opposite Nico Collins. I like the Texans' roster on both sides of the ball and think they are the best in the division.
Prediction: I like the Texans to win the AFC South.

Indianapolis Colts (8-9)
About: The Colts started out on fire, and looked like a potential division winner. Then the team slipped due to injuries and ended up short of the playoffs again. This off-season, the team moved Michael Pittman, Jr., and re-signed Alec Pierce and Daniel Jones. That gives them a core on offense but the passing game has certainly taken some hits. Jones is recovering from an Achilles injury, which leaves questions as to whether he'll be ready for Week 1. Jonathan Taylor got a big extension, and the offense will flow through him. There are some challenges on defense, too. The Colts have a wide range of outcomes, including winning the division and missing the playoffs entirely.
Prediction: I think the Colts could win 10 games and make the playoffs. The team could also win seven games and fall short. A lot depends on Jones and his health, and what comes in the passing game.

Tennessee Titans (3-14)
About: The Titans took Cam Ward to be the quarterback of the future, but they lacked a support structure in the team for him to thrive. As a result, the team struggled and Head Coach Brian Callahan was fired mid-season. Now, Robert Saleh is in as Head Coach and Brian Daboll is in as Offensive Coordinator. The team added Wan'Dale Robinson in free agency and Carnell Tate in the draft to provide a boost to the passing game. How quickly the team takes shape will determine its success.
Prediction: I don't think the Titans are a playoff team yet, but they should be better and more fun to watch.

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