Tennessee Titans (9-7)
Given the tremendous competition atop the AFC, it would be shocking if the Titans ended up playing in Super Bowl LII. That said, this team has the makings of a perennial contender, and it just improved its record in 2016 by six games over the 2015 season.
Marcus Mariota is obviously a very talented young quarterback, and he’s one of the NFL’s best in terms of red-zone passing. His rapport with tight end Delanie Walker and receiver Tajae Sharpe will only improve, and he’s always dangerous on the ground. The Titans also feature one of the NFL’s most dangerous rushing offenses, spearheaded by a dominant offensive line and a two-headed monster in the form of DeMarco Murray and Derrick Henry.
Defensively, Tennessee showed signs of life this past season under legendary defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau. This defense finished No. 20 in the league in total defense and No. 16 in scoring defense.
With an abundance of cap space and a glut of draft currency (thanks to their deal with the Los Angeles Rams last year), the Titans have the means to significantly improve this unit during the offseason.
The AFC South is clearly up for grabs every year, The Titans fell short of claiming the crown by the slimmest of margins this past season and should be highly competitive again in 2017.