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Redzone Redlines Season Preview - The AFC South

by JAMoney14 | 7 months ago | 0 Comments

Time to break down the AFC South!

Take it away, Alleyne! 

 

THE HOUSTON TEXANS

Team Strengths

Offensive Line Dominance: Laremy Tunsil, a 94 OVR SuperStar, is the anchor on this line, providing elite pass protection for C.J. Stroud. With young talent like Blake Fisher (82 OVR) and Kenyon Green (77 OVR) in the mix, this group has a strong balance of experience and youthful upside.

Backfield Thunder & Lightning: Joe Mixon (87 OVR) and Dameon Pierce (83 OVR) create a two-headed monster at running back. Mixon's versatile skill set and Pierce’s explosiveness give Houston a great 1-2 punch. Mixon’s 1,411 rushing yards and 23 TDs from Season 90 are hard to ignore.

Dynamic Pass-Rushing Tandem: With Will Anderson Jr. (88 OVR, SuperStar) and Danielle Hunter (88 OVR), the Texans boast one of the league's most fearsome pass-rushing duos. Hunter racked up 7 sacks last season, while Anderson’s SuperStar status hints at even more potential disruption.

Secondary Potential: Derek Stingley Jr. (92 OVR) and recent addition Donte Jackson (80 OVR) give Houston a reliable corner duo. Stingley’s combination of youth and ability (3 INTs in Season 90) makes him a budding lockdown corner.

Team Weaknesses

Quarterback Uncertainty in Big Moments: Despite C.J. Stroud’s promising 89 OVR and SuperStar status, his 12 interceptions and 32 sacks last season show he faced struggles under pressure. His decision-making and pocket awareness will be under the microscope.

Depth at Linebacker: Azeez Al-Shaair (82 OVR) stands out, but depth is lacking behind him, particularly with less experienced players backing up key positions. It’s an area that opposing offenses may exploit.

Wide Receiver Drops & Inconsistencies: Nico Collins and Tank Dell both had strong receiving numbers (1,116 and 1,080 yards, respectively), but drops from the wideout corps (9 from Collins, 7 from Dell) stunted the offense at critical times.

Inconsistent Tight End Play: While Dalton Schultz is a reliable target (85 OVR), there’s a noticeable drop-off behind him, with Noah Gray (73 OVR) being a new addition with a lot to prove. Their ability to block and create mismatches could be a concern.

Factors to Watch

Kamari Lassiter (CB, 80 OVR, Star): The 22-year-old’s potential to make an impact early is high. If he continues to develop, the Texans’ secondary will see a significant boost.

Blake Fisher (RT, 82 OVR, Star): Only 22 and in his first season, Fisher’s development will be crucial to fortifying the offensive line and keeping Stroud upright.

Joey Buchanan (LOLB, 76 OVR, ?? Dev): As a newly signed rookie linebacker, Buchanan could bring much-needed depth to the Texans' linebacker corps. His playmaking ability could make him an under-the-radar gem.

The Money Situation

  • Big Money, Big Performers: Laremy Tunsil commands a massive $28.85M salary but is worth every cent given his production and SuperStar development. His contract still has 2 years remaining.
  • Pending Contracts: Dalton Schultz and Jalen Pitre are on the final year of their contracts. Schultz’s 732 receiving yards last season make him a priority, and Pitre’s versatility at FS makes him a key defender to retain.
  • Budget Depth Pieces: With rookies and younger players like Joey Buchanan and Blake Fisher on team-friendly contracts, Houston has some cost-effective talent to build around for the long term.

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THE INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

Team Strengths

Dominant Offensive Line: The Colts boast a strong front, led by SuperStar LG Quenton Nelson (90 OVR) and RT Braden Smith (85 OVR). Their ability to both protect the QB and open lanes for Jonathan Taylor makes this line a cornerstone of the offense.

SuperStar Running Back: Jonathan Taylor (89 OVR) remains a game-changer. With 1,194 rushing yards and 11 TDs in Season 90, his breakaway speed and power-running style keep defenses on their toes.

Developing Defensive Front: DeForest Buckner (85 OVR) and Grover Stewart (83 OVR) provide a solid core upfront. Meanwhile, Laiatu Latu (84 OVR) showed promise last season, recording 11 sacks. This unit has the potential to disrupt any opposing backfield.

Deep Receiving Corps: Michael Pittman Jr. (88 OVR) and young talents like Adonai Mitchell (81 OVR) and Josh Downs (80 OVR) give the Colts a variety of weapons. They bring both size and speed, providing Anthony Richardson with reliable targets.

Team Weaknesses

Quarterback Struggles: Anthony Richardson's 28 interceptions last season highlight his struggles with decision-making. His 53.4% completion rate further underscores the need for improvement in his accuracy and pocket presence.

Secondary Questions: While Kenny Moore II (86 OVR) leads the unit, depth behind him is a concern. Newly signed rookies Kenny Knowles (79 OVR, ??) and Will Kitchens (77 OVR, ??) have potential, but their inexperience could leave gaps in coverage.

Linebacker Uncertainty: Zaire Franklin (83 OVR) is solid, but the overall depth at linebacker is thin. E.J. Speed (76 OVR) contributes on the outside, yet the team lacks a clear playmaker to bolster the middle of the field.

Offensive Inconsistency: Despite having talent in the backfield and receiver positions, the Colts' offense was inconsistent last season. Richardson was sacked 42 times, indicating struggles in pass protection and offensive play-calling.

Factors to Watch

Kenny Knowles (CB, 79 OVR, ??): This rookie brings promise to the Colts' secondary. His development could help solidify a defensive backfield that struggled at times last season.

Jaylon Carlies (ROLB, 82 OVR, SuperStar): Only 23, Carlies has already demonstrated potential with 6 sacks and 5 INTs in his rookie year. Expect him to become a key playmaker for the defense.

Adonai Mitchell (WR, 81 OVR, Star): Coming off a rookie season with 477 yards and 5 TDs, Mitchell has the potential to emerge as a reliable target for Richardson. His continued development could be pivotal for the passing game.

The Money Situation

  • Big Contracts: Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner take up substantial cap space with contracts exceeding $22M each. Both have two years left, making re-signing a potential topic for the upcoming seasons.
  • Expiring Contracts: Braden Smith, Kenny Moore II, and Ryan Kelly all have one year remaining on their deals, putting the Colts in a tight spot. Extensions or replacements will need to be considered to maintain roster stability.
  • Rookies on the Rise: With rookies like Kenny Knowles and Jaylon Carlies on team-friendly contracts, the Colts have a promising youth movement that doesn't strain the budget, providing some financial flexibility for future roster decisions.

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THE JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

Team Strengths

Explosive Offense: The Jaguars are loaded with playmakers, including superstar HB Travis Etienne Jr. (94 OVR) who rushed for 1,286 yards last season. With QB Trevor Lawrence (88 OVR, Superstar) and an array of receivers like Gabe Davis (88 OVR, Star) and Brian Thomas Jr. (84 OVR, Star), this offense can strike quickly and effectively.

Solid Secondary: With the recent acquisition of Charvarius Ward (92 OVR) and the already strong Tyson Campbell (85 OVR), the Jaguars have assembled a formidable cornerback group. Additionally, Paulson Adebo (85 OVR) provides depth and experience in the secondary.

Star-Powered Defensive Line: The front four, led by RE Josh Hines-Allen (92 OVR, X-Factor) and LE Travon Walker (87 OVR, Superstar), brings significant pressure. The addition of Arik Armstead (79 OVR, Star) boosts their ability to both rush the passer and stop the run.

Emerging Linebackers: Foyesade Oluokun (86 OVR, Star) anchors the linebacker corps with his 60 tackles and 5 forced fumbles last season. MLB Devin Lloyd (84 OVR, Star) is poised for a breakout season, adding versatility and power to the defense.

Team Weaknesses

Offensive Line Concerns: While Brandon Scherff (84 OVR, Star) is solid at RG, the rest of the line lacks depth and consistency. Newly acquired Jedrick Wills Jr. (76 OVR) may not be enough to patch up pass protection woes, as Lawrence was sacked 45 times last season.

Running Back Depth: Behind Travis Etienne Jr., the Jaguars don't have a proven backup. Elijah Mitchell (80 OVR) adds some insurance, but his injury history could be a concern. Tank Bigsby (74 OVR) is serviceable, but the running game could struggle if Etienne Jr. misses time.

Ageing Defense: Several key players like Brandon Scherff (33), Mitch Morse (33), and Arik Armstead (31) are getting older. The Jaguars may need to start planning for replacements to maintain the current level of play, particularly on defense.

Questionable Depth at Tight End: While Evan Engram (89 OVR, X-Factor) is an elite weapon, the talent behind him is questionable. Allen Lazard (77 OVR) has been converted into a TE, but his ability to block and contribute in a traditional tight-end role is uncertain.

Factors to Watch

Brian Thomas Jr. (WR, 84 OVR, Star): The young receiver had an impressive season, with 941 yards and 9 TDs. Entering his second year, he could solidify himself as a primary target in Jacksonville’s passing attack.

Max Easley (CB, 76 OVR, ??): A rookie with high potential, Easley will have opportunities to make an impact. His performance could be a deciding factor in the effectiveness of the Jaguars' secondary.

Rashawn Shields (LOLB, 70 OVR): This rookie linebacker has the chance to step into a starting role, adding versatility and depth to the Jaguars’ linebacker group. If he develops quickly, he could become a key contributor on defense.

The Money Situation

  • Contract Extensions: With Travis Etienne Jr. and Evan Engram both on the final year of their contracts, Jacksonville will need to decide if they’re worth re-signing. Engram’s high salary and elite production will be particularly challenging to replace.
  • High-Priced Stars: Josh Hines-Allen's (92 OVR, X-Factor) massive $39.4M salary will continue for four more years, tying up significant cap space. Similarly, Trevor Lawrence’s (88 OVR) long-term, high-value deal will impact the Jaguars’ ability to sign other stars.
  • Young Talent: The recent acquisitions of rookies like Max Easley (76 OVR, ??) and Rashawn Shields (70 OVR) on affordable contracts offer some financial flexibility and room for development in key positions.

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THE TENNESSEE TITANS

Team Strengths

Quarterback Depth: With Brock Purdy (90 OVR, Superstar) leading the offense and Will Levis (76 OVR) providing a solid backup, the Titans have a strong QB room. Purdy’s rise brings a new dynamic, supported by his efficiency and impressive decision-making.

Strong Secondary: The Titans boast a formidable secondary led by star cornerback L'Jarius Sneed (92 OVR) and Chidobe Awuzie (84 OVR). This unit has the talent to lock down opposing receivers, with Sneed and Awuzie capable of making game-changing plays.

Balanced Receiving Corps: The mix of Calvin Ridley (82 OVR, Superstar), Kadarius Toney (78 OVR, Star), and Treylon Burks (78 OVR, Star) gives Purdy plenty of targets. Ridley’s experience complements Toney's speed and Burks' size, creating matchup nightmares for defenses.

Stout Defensive Line: With Jeffrey Simmons (89 OVR, Superstar) anchoring the line and Josh Sweat (83 OVR, Star) applying pressure on the edge, the Titans have the pieces to disrupt offensive game plans, making life difficult for opposing quarterbacks.

Team Weaknesses

Running Back Questions: Tony Pollard (86 OVR, Star) is the lead back, but his supporting cast, including Alexander Mattison (77 OVR), has yet to establish consistency. With Pollard managing only 541 yards last season, the Titans' ground game needs to step up.

Offensive Line Depth: While JC Latham (85 OVR, Star) provides some strength at LT, the rest of the line, particularly the interior, lacks depth and stability. Inadequate pass protection could become an issue, impacting Purdy's effectiveness in the pocket.

Inconsistent Linebacker Play: Aside from Harold Landry III (79 OVR, Superstar), the linebacking corps is a mixed bag. Kenneth Murray Jr. (76 OVR) has potential, but inconsistent play raises concerns about the defense's ability to handle versatile offenses.

Kicking Woes: With the addition of Jason Sanders (78 OVR), the Titans hope to stabilize their kicking game. However, past inconsistencies in clutch moments could continue to haunt them if Sanders doesn't find his rhythm quickly.

Factors to Watch

Brock Purdy’s Performance: Now entering his third year, Purdy's potential to become an elite QB in the league is a key storyline. If he continues to develop, he could transform the Titans' offense into one of the league's best.

Tyjae Spears (HB, 84 OVR, Star): Spears showed flashes of brilliance last season, averaging 4.0 yards per carry with 7 touchdowns. If he can carve out a more significant role in the offense, he could provide the backfield spark the Titans need.

Josh Sweat’s Impact: The newly acquired edge rusher, Sweat (83 OVR, Star), could significantly bolster the Titans' pass rush. His ability to disrupt offenses will be crucial, especially in high-stakes divisional matchups.

The Money Situation

  • Salary Cap Management: With major contracts like L'Jarius Sneed’s ($20M) and Jeffrey Simmons' ($22.8M), the Titans are investing heavily in their top talents. However, this could limit future financial flexibility if they need to re-sign or pursue additional talent.

  • Contract Extensions: Brock Purdy is on the last year of his current contract. His potential leap to stardom means the Titans might have to invest significantly to keep him around. Similarly, Calvin Ridley’s lucrative contract could require renegotiation if he continues to perform at a high level.

  • Upcoming Decisions: Alexander Mattison (77 OVR) and some key pieces on the defensive line will have expiring contracts soon, pushing the Titans to make tough choices about who to retain and where to allocate resources.

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AFC SOUTH OUTLOOK

AFC South Division Outlook for Season 91

The AFC South remains one of the league’s most unpredictable divisions. The Texans, with their bolstered roster, look poised to defend their crown. Their explosive offense, led by C.J. Stroud, and a deep secondary give them a slight edge over their rivals.

Houston Texans: 11-6

Despite the loss of key defensive players, the Texans' strong passing attack and a reinforced secondary keep them competitive. Expect another dominant season with a slight dip from last year's 12-5 finish.

Jacksonville Jaguars: 11-6

The Jaguars have all the pieces for a division title run. Trevor Lawrence, entering his prime, is backed by dynamic weapons like Travis Etienne Jr. and a reinforced defense. Their schedule provides enough opportunities to steal crucial wins.

Tennessee Titans: 9-8

While the Titans have improved their passing game with Brock Purdy, uncertainties at running back and offensive line depth limit their ceiling. A potential playoff contender, they need Purdy to take the next step to challenge for the division.

Indianapolis Colts: 6-11

The Colts remain in a rebuilding phase. Despite the firepower of Jonathan Taylor and a solid receiving corps, questions at quarterback and defensive inconsistency make significant improvement tough. Look for progress, but not enough to climb out of the division's basement.

Final Prediction

Division Winner: Texans (11-6) - The Texans’ balance of offensive firepower and secondary strength gives them a slight edge. Jacksonville will challenge closely, and a potential playoff berth for both the Texans and Jaguars is on the horizon.

Bold Take: Jacksonville’s Trevor Lawrence could push the Texans all season, potentially fighting for a wild card spot. Meanwhile, Brock Purdy of the Titans could emerge as a star if he elevates his play, making the AFC South a thrilling race to watch.