AFC South Power Rankings: Where do Jacksonville Jaguars sit after 2023 collapse?
The Jacksonville Jaguars were soaring high after the 2022 season. Against expectations, they managed to make the playoffs and win the AFC South just one year after going 3-14. Heading into 2023, they were projected to seize the division again, but they fell flat. An underwhelming offensive line, execution and coaching were among the reasons the Jags got off to a promising start but couldn't ultimately qualify for the postseason.
Now, Jacksonville, along with the Tennessee Titans and the Indianapolis Colts, have to stay home preparing for the offseason while the Houston Texans are set to face the Baltimore Ravens in the Divisional Round of the playoffs. So how does the AFC South look after the 2023 regular season? Here's a look at the division heading into the offseason.
4. Tennesse Titans
The Tennessee Titans gave Mike Vrabel the boot because he and general manager Ran Carthon didn't see eye to eye when it came to building the roster. When the Titans dismissed Jon Robinson in 2022, it seemed like Vrabel was going to have a bigger say in personnel decisions, but that didn't turn out to be the case. Now, Tennessee is looking for a head coach whose vision aligns with Carthon's. However, that doesn't guarantee they'll find someone better than Vrabel.
Despite the fact that questionable moves the past three years left the roster devoid of talent, Vrabel got his team to play hard week in, and week out. Whoever takes his place will be tasked with getting the most out of the few playmakers Tennessee currently has.
Running back Tyjae Spears seems like a fine replacement for Derrick Henry, who's set to become a free agent. The question is whether he can carry the load full-time. Left guard Peter Skoronski and right tackle Dillon Radunz give Tennessee a couple of building blocks on the offensive line. Similarly, Will Levis flashed as a rookie. He deserves a chance to prove he's the long-term answer at quarterback. That said, the Titans have holes at wide receiver and tight end.
The defense still has a bit of talent to work with, mainly on the front seven due to the presence of Harold Landry III, Arden Key, and Denico Autry. Carthon will need to turn his attention to the back end if he wants to the defense to compete in 2024. But whether it's the offense or the defense, the Titans have plenty of question marks heading into the offseason to think they have a legitimate shot to compete.