Analysts project Houston Texans as favorites in the 2026 AFC South

Projections for the 2026 AFC South division indicate the Houston Texans as the primary contender, with analysts forecasting a 12-5 record. The team reinforced its roster by drafting Kayden McDonald and Kamari Ramsey, while signing Jadeveon Clowney to bolster the defense. Offensively, Houston addressed previous rushing struggles by adding David Montgomery, Keylan Rutledge, Wyatt Teller, and Braden Smith to support CJ Stroud. The Indianapolis Colts enter the season with a 9-8 forecast, balancing a talented receiving corps against concerns regarding defensive depth. Meanwhile, the Jacksonville Jaguars face an 8-9 projection despite expectations that their offense will maintain momentum from the previous year. Head coach Liam Coen leads the Jacksonville squad into the season with adjustments intended to sustain the production seen during the final stretch of 2025.

• 4:04 AMYahoo Sports — AFC South 2026 Predictions: Can the Texans Run Away With the Division?