This weekly series presents the 10 best players in each division. This week we continue with the AFC South.
1. J. J. Watt, DE, Houston Texans
He might be the NFL’s best player, this is a no brainer.
2. Andrew Luck, QB, Indianapolis Colts
It was a horrible year for Luck but he’s still undoubtedly the best young quarterback in the league. A return to health this season should see his production go back to normal.
3. DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Houston Texans
Despite a complete lack of stability and quality at the quarterback position, Hopkins took the league by storm in 2016. He’s now one of the best receivers in the league. 111 catches for 1,521 yards and 11 touchdowns is unbelivable production when you consider what he had to work with.
4. Delanie Walker, TE, Tennessee Titans
He’s getting better with age and at 31 he’s coming off his best season as a pro. He’s setting the current standard for pass catching as a tight end.
5. Whitney Mercilus, LB, Houston Texans
He’s the most explosive pass rusher in the division after Watt with an arrow pointing straight up. 12 sacks last season.
6. T. Y. Hilton, WR, Indianapolis Colts
Despite Luck’s struggles he didn’t have much of a down year, registering a 1,000 yard season for the third straight year. The big play potential with his elite separation is off the charts.
7. Malik Jackson, DT, Jacksonville Jaguars
For the $90 million he got this offseason he better be awesome. He’s a well rounded player that gets excellent pocket pressure and dominates against the run.
8. Allen Robinson, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars
Exploded onto the scene last year and is somehow still under the radar. The likely curse of playing in Jacksonville. But he caught 80 passes for 1,400 yards and 14 touchdowns last year. Let it be known: this guy is really good.
9. Tashaun Gipson, S, Jacksonville Jaguars
A fantastic pickup for the Jags. With 14 interceptions in 4 years he’s one of the game’s best young ballhawks.
10. Vontae Davis, CB, Indianapolis Colts
One of the more underrated corners in the league with 8 interceptions total in the last two seasons. He’s durable and steady.
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