During the month of August, Last Word on Pro Football will be breaking down every position in the league by division. This article contains an in-depth, position-by-position breakdown of the AFC South offenses. The breakdown will consist of “the best” at every position.
Be sure to check out our breakdown of the AFC South on defense.
2019 AFC South Breakdown: The Offense
Quarterback
Nick Foles has yet to play a regular-season game for the Jacksonville Jaguars. However, the veteran gets the nod as the best quarterback in the AFC South. His veteran leadership and his level of experience separate him from the rest. Foles won a Super Bowl with the Philadelphia Eagles and hopes to bring one to Jacksonville. The talent he has around him will help him thrive in the division. Though Deshaun Watson and Marcus Mariota are stout quarterbacks, Foles will be the best in the division. The veteran came to Jacksonville to help the franchise win. With Andrew Luck retiring from the Indianapolis Colts, this gives Foles a chance to succeed in the division.
Running Back
Derrick Henry has become a workhorse for the Tennessee Titans. Entering his fourth season, he has become the feature back with the Titans. In 2018, Henry finished with 1,059 yards and 12 touchdowns on 215 carries. To have another stellar season, the offense has to get him the ball more. Feeding Henry in crucial situations will be key. For a team on the rise, he is critical to the Titans’ success in 2019.
Wide Receiver One
DeAndre Hopkins is arguably the best wide receiver in the AFC South. He has produced multiple breakout seasons. With Deshaun Watson throwing him passes, Hopkins continues to get better. In 2018, he finished with 1,572 yards on 115 receptions and 11 touchdowns. His game speaks for itself. Hopkins is also a big talker but backs it up with his play.
Wide Receiver Two
T.Y. Hilton has staked his claim as the best Colts receiver in years. The Colts’ primary target has likely eclipsed his name into the team’s hall of fame once his career ends. His ability to get separation at the line of scrimmage with his quick burst of speed sets him apart from the rest. One of the best in the game, Hilton is seeking a big season in 2019. Coming off an impressive 2018 season, he is trying to be the best in the division. A hard feat to accomplish with Hopkins currently holding that title.
Tight End
Eric Ebron has built a name for itself during his career. First, with the Lions, Ebron burst onto the scene during his rookie campaign. After being traded to the Colts, the veteran tight end is looking to put up numbers this season. In 2018, Ebron caught 66 passes for 750 yards and 13 touchdowns. If he can go beyond that this season, he can be a viable asset to the Colts’ offense without Andrew Luck throwing passes.
Offensive Line
The Jaguars have the best offensive line in the AFC South. With players like Cam Robinson, Andrew Norwell and Brandon Linder, the Jags front is lethal. Acquiring Norwell gave Jacksonville a boost when they needed it most. It’s safe to say the acquisition has worked in their favor. With a veteran quarterback behind them, the best front unit in the division knows what they’re capable of. If they can protect Nick Foles in the pocket, this could be one of the best offensive lines in the NFL this season.
