Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence could shift balance of power in AFC South

The Jacksonville Jaguars aren’t favorites to win the AFC South in 2021. On the other hand, they are ready to give their division foes a run for their money thanks to a key addition they made in the offseason.

Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports recently put together a list of eight players (one for each division) who could “end up being difference-makers in deciding a division crown”. For the AFC South, La Canfora chose Indianapolis Colts quarterback Carson Wentz. Here’s what he has to say about the second-overall selection in 2016.

"Factor in his vaccination status and the overall issue the Colts have in that regard compared to most other teams, and things could get even murkier for this group from week to week. Can he get anywhere close to his MVP form under Frank Reich? If so, with this line and this running game and some excellent pieces on defense, the Colts could prevail in what should be a weak division."

La Canfora goes on to say that he doesn’t expect a turnaround from Wentz but doesn’t rule it out either. The former Bison has dealt with injuries over the last few seasons, which was one of the reasons the Philadelphia Eagles traded him to Indy in the offseason. If he plays the way he did during Philly’s 2017 Super Bowl run, the Colts will be tough to beat. However, it’s not a sure thing it will happen. In fact, there’s another quarterback that will have a big impact in the AFC South.

Trevor Lawrence will the Jacksonville Jaguars a better team in 2021.

The Jaguars won’t be a championship contender in 2021 but they will surely play competitive football, something they failed to do last season. Head coach Urban Meyer and general manager Trent Baalke made several significant additions in the offseason. Drafting Trevor Lawrence was arguably the most important one. Sure, the Jags needed upgrades at pretty much every position but quarterback was their biggest need.

With Lawrence now taking snaps behind center, the Jaguars will be able to keep up with opposing teams more often than not. It won’t be always pretty, as the Clemson product will experience growing pains. Nevertheless, he will help the Jaguars make things interesting in the AFC South.

The Jacksonville Jaguars could have a chance in the AFC South.

The Houston Texans couldn’t replenish their roster this offseason due to salary cap constraints. They also lacked picks in the first two rounds of the draft. To add insult to injury, quarterback Deshaun Watson’s status for the 2021 season is uncertain. On the other hand, the Colts’ success in 2021 may rest on Wentz’s availability and help. He was previously placed on the Covid-19/Reserve list and underwent foot surgery not long ago. Will he play every game and be at 100 percent in 2021?

The Tennesse Titans enter the 2021 season as the team to beat in the division. They arguably have the best offense in the AFC South and made many additions to their defense in the offseason. Last season, they had no trouble sweeping the Jaguars, it will be interesting to see if they can pull the feat once again. After all, Jacksonville now has a better roster (at least on paper) and should be able to put up a good fight. They had the Titans against the ropes in Week 2 and lost the game by just three points.

Will the Jaguars win one of their two games against Tennessee? It’s hard to tell but one thing is sure, Trevor Lawrence gives them a chance.