AFC South Notes: Colts, Texans, Titans

Colts

Colts DE Justin Houston could have followed the trend of a number of high-profile players who switched teams this offseason and skipped voluntary spring workouts. The fact that he didn’t made a positive impression on his new teammates. 

“He’s been impressive to watch out there,” DT Margus Hunt said via 1070 The Fan’s Kevin Bowen. “His pass rushing, his ability to set the edge and just his presence within the defensive line, he’s been a very positive feature.”

“He loves teaching,” DE Jabaal Sheard added. “He is another leader that’s stepping up and helping guys get better. He’s out there showing it, not just talking it. He’s showing it.”

Texans

The Texans showed how much they valued K Ka’imi Fairbairn by applying the $3.095 million second-round tender to the restricted free agent this offseason. Fairbairn is a candidate for an extension following the season if he keeps up his success, and for his part, he loves kicking in Houston.

“Yeah, of course, this is one of the best places to kick,” Fairbairn said via Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle. “We have a really good young team, great owners, great coaching staff. I just focus on today. I just do my best today and let all the chips fall where they may. I can’t predict the future.”

• ESPN’s Sarah Barshop listed Texans TE Darren Fells as a potential veteran cut. Barshop thinks the Texans could only carry three tight ends, leaving Fells behind presumed starter Jordan Thomas, 2018 third-rounder Jordan Akins and 2019 third-rounder Kahale Warring.

Titans

• Paul Kuharsky believes that Titans RB Derrick Henry could command “more money than he is worth” with a good performance this season. Conversely, Kuharsky mentions that Henry “won’t be worth having” if he isn’t successful in 2019. 
• Regarding the possibility of the Titans using the franchise tag on Henry, Kuharsky thinks it would be unwise to franchise a running back, considering it carried an $11.2 million price tag last year. 
• Kuharsky writes that the best hope for the Titans is Henry to have a “very good” season and a “soft market” develops for him, which could open the door for him to sign a “team-friendly deal.” 
• As for position battles in training camp, Kuharsky says to keep an eye on the Titans’ competition for starting right guard between Kevin Pamphile and Nate Davis. 
• Kuharsky is also curious to see whether Titans’ recently signed WR Adam Humphries gets more work as an outside or slot receiver.