AFC South Notes: Colts, Jaguars, Texans, Titans

Colts

Regarding Colts QB Andrew Lucks‘ strained calf, HC Frank Reich said he has learned from Tony Dungy to never be “overly concerned” with injuries. 

“If I learned anything – and I learned a lot from Tony Dungy, working with him – he literally never flinched,’’ Reich said, via Mike Chappell of Fox59. “Even when our best players got hurt, you would look at him and you would think it was just . . . he was never overly concerned. I just think that’s important.”

Jaguars

After a strong rookie season, Jaguars RB Leonard Fournette came crashing back down to earth in his second season. The former No. 4 overall pick by Jacksonville in 2017 struggled with a lingering ankle injury, hobbling his way to 439 yards in eight games while averaging 3.3 yards per carry. He compounded his issues with a one-game suspension for fighting in a game, prompting the Jaguars to void the remaining guarantees in his contract. Fournette seems to recognize he’s entering a key moment in his career in 2019.

“I came back in better shape, and my mind was good without distractions,” Fournette said Tuesday via John Reid of the Florida Times-Union. “I had to change my mindset coming into camp, trying to grasp everything and push my body. I also pushed my brain in thinking more.”

Texans

• According to John McClain of the Houston Chronicle, Texans QB A.J. McCarron suffered an injury to the thumb of his throwing hand during joint practices with the Packers. 
• McClain says the injury could keep McCarron out the rest of the preseason and the Texans will likely have to sign another quarterback. 

Titans

Entering his third season, Titans WR Corey Davis focused this offseason on making more of the tough catches that are expected of No. 1 wide receivers in the NFL. So far during training camp, the results are encouraging, as Davis has had multiple strong, contested grabs. 

“I believe I can make those plays every single day,” Davis said via ESPN’s Turron Davenport. “It’s just a matter of coming out here and believing in myself, so I can keep doing it. When it’s in the air, it’s my ball. You gotta believe that and have that mentality when the ball is up there.”

Titans CB Malcolm Butler had an uneven debut after signing in Tennessee on a mega-deal in free agency. Heading into his second year with the team, Butler says he feels much more comfortable. 

“It’s a new year, a new season and a new me. I’m ready to play,” Butler said via Terry McCormick of TitanInsider.com. “I’m very relaxed. It’s not my first rodeo now. I’m relaxed. I know my teammates, I know my coaches and my playbook. I know Nashville and I know hot chicken, so I’m very acquainted.”