2017 NFL Team Needs: AFC South

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AFC South Team Needs

Team needs for all 32 franchises shifted significantly through the two weeks of free agency that have breezed by. Some teams filled their glaring weaknesses by signing big-time free agents, but other teams failed to improve by missing out on the sweepstakes. Fortunately, the NFL draft — beginning April 27th– will give teams another opportunity to strengthen their roster and make a run in the playoffs.

This week’s edition of Team Needs will focus purely on what holes AFC South teams must fix in the first round.

Jacksonville Jaguars

2016 season: 3-13 record

Draft order: 4th overall

Glaring need: Running Back

The Jaguars run game posed no threats to opposing defenses last season. Their leading rusher was, TJ Yeldon, who carried the rock for 465 yards (ranked 38th in the league) and one touchdown. One of the reasons Blake Bortles struggled, especially with turnovers, was because there was no run game to set up the passing attack. Jacksonville needs to take the pressure off of the young quarterback and that offensive line by strengthening their rushing offense. There is an abundance of backfield talent in the draft including a couple of feature backs.

Indianapolis Colts

2016 season: 8-8 record

Draft order: 15th overall

Glaring need: Offensive tackle

Andrew Luck was the 2nd most sacked quarterback in 2016, only behind Tyrod Taylor. The Colts must bolster their offensive line and keep their franchise quarterback healthy and on the field. Luck is a championship-caliber quarterback, but if his team fails to protect him, they won’t be winning too many games.

Tennessee Titans

2016 season: 9-7 record

Draft order: 18th overall

Glaring need: Wide receiver, inside linebacker

Titans finished 29th in receptions and 25th in receiving yards. Tajae Sharpe has sky-high potential in the Titans offense, but Marcus Mariota needs more weapons to the throw the ball to. A number one WR wouldn’t hurt. Another need the Titans can fill in the first round is at inside linebacker. A leader and intimidator at that position will be ideal.

Houston Texans

2016 season: 9-7 record

Draft order: 25th overall

Glaring need: Quarterback

Once the Texans find their starting quarterback, they will be a team to be reckoned with as Super Bowl contenders. A quarterback is a must. Their defense can only carry them so far, but in order for Texans to be serious contenders, they need someone who can spread the ball and put points up on the board.