AFC South bold predictions spark offense-first optimism: Jonathan Taylor could emerge as an MVP contender if Indianapolis leans on him with Daniel Jones at quarterback, potentially elevating a stable eight-to-ten win run. Calvin Ridley may top 1,400 receiving yards with Ward at the helm in Tennessee, while Trevor Etienne could be moved by midseason as Jacksonville reshapes its RB corps. Travon Walker targets a breakout with 17 sacks, Jayden Higgins eyes 1,000 receiving yards for Houston, and Jeffery Simmons hits double-digit sacks in Tennessee.

These forecasts hinge on improved QB stability, OL play, and strategic defensive pressure. For fantasy players, Taylor and Ridley carry clear upside, Etienne’s situation could swing value via trades, Walker and Simmons offer high-floor sack potential, and Higgins could surprise as a rookie breakout. Monitor how teams manage RB rotations and pass rush, especially in divisional battles.

In sum, the AFC South could deliver a run of breakout campaigns and midseason moves that reshape fantasy rosters—with early-season targets and late-season shifts dictating playoff push decisions for savvy owners.

Five late-round Zero-RB targets headline this sleeper list: Keaton Mitchell, Blake Corum, Kendre Miller, Sean Tucker, and Trevor Etienne. Mitchell looks like the safest floor option behind Derrick Henry in Baltimore, with role in both rushing and passing downs. Corum could push into a true RB2 role with Kyren Williams in Los Angeles, offering standalone value if used more than expected. Miller could lead New Orleans if Kamara is dealt, Tucker adds high-upside depth for Tampa Bay, and Etienne has legitimate handcuff upside in Carolina. Build the RB room around a steady RB1 and sprinkle in upside darts for the late rounds.