The Houston Texans are predicted to win the AFC South in the upcoming 2026 season, with The Post projecting an 11-6 record for the team under coach DeMeco Ryans. This projection follows Ryans' success in leading the Texans to the playoffs in each of his first three seasons.
The Texans' defense is highlighted as a key strength, featuring a formidable pass-rushing duo in Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter, supplemented by Jadeveon Clowney. The offense aims for balance with the addition of running back David Montgomery, who joins from Detroit, and the continued presence of C.J. Stroud at quarterback. The offensive line has reportedly seen upgrades, and the secondary is considered one of the league's best, led by Derek Stingley Jr.
Despite the optimistic outlook, challenges remain for Houston. Stroud is looking to recapture his rookie form, and the team faces injuries to key wide receivers Tank Dell and Jayden Higgins, the latter necessitating a trade for Kayshon Boutte. The offensive line also faces an early setback with right tackle Braden Smith starting on injured reserve. The team's objective this season is to advance to the AFC Championship game.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are also expected to be competitive, with a projected 11-6 record under new coach Liam Coen. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence is anticipated to continue his development, supported by a receiving corps including Parker Washington and Jakobi Meyers. The Jaguars boast a strong run defense and an opportunistic defense that forced 31 turnovers in 2025. Special teams are also a noted strength, with kicker Cam Little and punter Logan Cooke. Concerns for the Jaguars include a high number of receiving drops in the previous season and a struggling offensive line ranked 27th in sacks allowed.
The Indianapolis Colts are projected to finish with an 8-9 record. Quarterback Daniel Jones is healthy after an Achilles injury, and running back Jonathan Taylor remains an elite talent. However, the departure of key players like Michael Pittman Jr. and Zaire Franklin, coupled with pass rush depth issues, presents significant hurdles. The team's coaching and general manager are reportedly on the hot seat.
The Tennessee Titans face a rebuilding year, with a projected 5-12 record under coach Robert Saleh. The team has added wide receiver Carnell Tate and Brian Daboll as offensive coordinator, and Cam Ward will look to utilize these new weapons. However, the offensive line remains a concern, with Ward having been sacked 55 times last season. Running back Tony Pollard aims for his fifth consecutive 1,000-yard season, but his age is a factor. Saleh himself has much to prove as a head coach.
