Overview

• The Texans are labeled clear favorites after consecutive division titles, with competitive recent playoff outings sustaining confidence under coach DeMeco Ryans.
• The offensive line is identified as Houston’s swing factor, with progress there seen as key to unlocking another step for quarterback C.J. Stroud.
• Jacksonville is highlighted as the top surprise candidate under new head coach Liam Coen, who arrives from Tampa Bay credited with elevating Baker Mayfield.
• Draft pick Travis Hunter is expected to play both receiver and cornerback for the Jaguars, and he is framed as an X‑factor for a Trevor Lawrence rebound.
• Indianapolis is projected as the likely disappointment, as a quarterback battle between Anthony Richardson and newcomer Daniel Jones and holes at offensive line, linebacker and kicker overshadow positives like Jonathan Taylor and defensive additions Charvarius Ward and Camryn Bynum.