Why the AFC South Could be One of the Toughest Divisions Soon

After adding three new quarterbacks, the AFC South could rise as the toughest division in the NFL.

The AFC South now has young talent at QB in all four corners of the division. The Jacksonville Jaguars already have the dynamic Trevor Lawrence calling the shots.

Coming off of an AFC South division title in 2022, all signs point to a repeat, given the talent of the offense. With the addition of the previously suspended wide receiver, Calvin Ridley, it seems potentially more destined.

However, three new quarterbacks are now gracing Lawrence for six games in 2023. With this as the subject, it's time to dive into how the AFC South could become one of the toughest divisions to win in the league sooner rather than later if these new field generals hit their stride. This includes the Indianapolis Colts and their rookie leader.

The list will begin with the Colts and their high-ceiling QB, Anthony Richardson.

Indianapolis Colts-QB Anthony Richardson (Pick #4 Overall)

Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Colts took a big jump at Richardson in the NFL Draft. After being on the QB rotation since 2019, it was time to get the QB with the highest upside.

If Richardson can hit the ground running faster than expected, the Colts could be a formidable opponent for anyone with their threats on the ground and air.

It's assumed that Richardson may be limited or could sit behind veteran Gardner Minshew. However, the Colts have plenty of offensive firepower to push the narrative that Richardson could start.

Running backs Jonathan Taylor and Evan Hull, a strong tight end group headed by Jelani Woods, and reliable targets like Michael Pittman Jr., Alec Pierce, Isaiah McKenzie, and Josh Downs all will be huge for Richardson's development.

New head coach Shane Steichen has plenty to work with, and the talent is young and ready to fire. Look for the Colts to be a tough out if everything clicks the way Steichen envisions.

Next, we'll look into the Houston Texans and their selection of the most accurate passer in the draft, C.J. Stroud.

Houston Texans-QB C.J. Stroud (Pick #2 Overall)

Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Arguably the best pure thrower in the 2023 QB class, Stroud's trip to Houston was one few thought would happen. Rather, many mocked Alabama's Bryce Young to the Houston Texans. Ultimately, he would go number one to the Carolina Panthers.

Stroud likely has the best chance of these three QBs to start day one. He will do this with a bruising runner in Dameon Pierce, who had a great rookie season on a bad offense. Nothing better for a new quarterback than a great addition in the backfield like Pierce.

Also, the Texans added tight end Dalton Schultz and drafted wide receivers Tank Dell and Xavier Hutchinson, providing more weapons for Stroud. A name that is also there is Nico Collins, who suffered injuries in 2022.

If these dots connect for new head coach DeMeco Ryans, it could be a surgical and efficient operation for his offense in Houston.

The last quarterback is one with a chip on his shoulder. Let's get to the Tennessee Titans' newest passer, Will Levis.

Tennessee Titans-QB Will Levis (Picked #33 overall)

Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

After a trade-up in the second round with the Arizona Cardinals, the Titans took the Kentucky bomber, Levis.

After tumbling to the second round, many weren't sure where Levis would land. However, the Tennessee Titans make excellent sense for him.

While there is a chance he can start, he will likely be sitting behind current QB1, Ryan Tannehill. Even though Tannehill is listed as the starter right now, that doesn't mean that head coach Mike Vrabel won't think Levis shouldn't get the gig to start the season.

If he chooses to get Levis the experience early, he will have weapons to work with. Running backs Derrick Henry and new addition Tyjae Spears form a great tandem in the backfield. Also, the young and physical Treylon Burks will be helping Levis find targets downfield in the passing game.

While the areas of concern for the Titans are still the offensive line and lack of reliable playmakers at tight end, Vrabel could construct a run-heavy scheme (similar to Richardson in Indy) that will make Levis comfortable.

Maximize his strengths with quick passes and deep shots, and there's a case there for the Titans to surprise many and get wins where they aren't expected to.

Outlook

The AFC South has gone from one of the worst divisions in football to one of the most interesting and young. All three rookie quarterbacks have a case to make a considerable impact and win their division.

They may need time to catch up to the current champion Jaguars. But, with the right coaching and direction, the AFC South could soon become very exciting and fun.

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