Last week, Around The League broke down questions facing teams from the AFC East and AFC North. Now we give the AFC South the same treatment. (To hear our division previews in podcast form, just click into the sound file below or go right here.)
Indianapolis Colts: Will Ahmad Bradshaw be a difference-maker?
The signing of former New York Giants workhorse Ahmad Bradshaw represented a low-risk, high-reward move for the Colts, who significantly upgrade at the running back position if Bradshaw is healthy and on the field.
We just don't know at this time if Bradshaw will be able to get right following his latest foot surgery. He's spent most of 2013 in a walking boot, and remained in one as recently as last month.
If Bradshaw doesn't begin training camp on the physically unable to perform list, expect him to sit ahead of Vick Ballard, Donald Brown and Co. on the Colts' depth chart. He's a multi-dimensional back whose above-average blocking ability will better protect Andrew Luck. That trait cannot be underestimated in Colts World.
Houston Texans: Is DeAndre Hopkins the missing link?
Arian Foster and Andre Johnson are studs, but there was no question the Texans were missing playmakers on the offensive side of the ball as they stumbled toward the finish last season. Using their first-round draft pick on wideout DeAndre Hopkins was a necessary move that could have instant dividends.
Hopkins is getting glowing reviews from teammates and coaches and was running with the first team in organized team activities. It's all trending in the right direction, but time will tell.
Tennessee Titans: Will the running game make a big leap?
Chris Johnson told Around The League in February he hoped the Titans would focus on rebuilding the trenches during the offseason. They did just that, spending big money to land former Buffalo Bills guard Andy Levitre before selecting Alabama guard Chance Warmack with the 10th overall pick in April's draft. The team also added former New York Jets running back Shonn Greene, a move that should allow Johnson to play more to his strengths as a rusher.
The development of Jake Locker hangs over everything in Tennessee, but the Titans have at least put a promising offense around him.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Can Blaine Gabbert fight off Chad Henne?
There will be no more rope for Gabbert, who must prove he isn't the first-round bust many perceive him to be. The general feeling is that Gabbert should be able to win the job in camp, but Henne can steal it away if Gabbert crumbles during the preseason.
Don't rule it out.
Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @DanHanzus.
