AFC South Notes: Colts, Texans, Titans

Colts

• According to 1070 The Fan’s Kevin Bowen, Colts QB Jacoby Brissett is almost a lock not to be traded and to play out 2019 as the No. 2 quarterback. 
• Bowen writes that third-string QB Chad Kelly likely won’t make the final roster, but is a strong candidate for the practice squad if he performs well during the preseason.
• Former Colts DT Josh Chapman was arrested for a second DUI this past weekend. Chapman currently works as a strength and conditioning coach for his alma mater, Alabama. (Stephanie Taylor)

Texans

A variety of factors, such as injuries and being asked to play more coverage, helped limit Texans LB Whitney Mercilus‘ production in 2018. Entering the final year of his contract, Mercilus is hoping to continue to demonstrate his flexibility and earn the reward of a new deal even if it doesn’t lead to bigger sack numbers. 

“Yeah, it was a new adjustment for me: understanding and dropping back into pass coverage, helping out there with the route combinations that were there and jumbling around in my head,” Mercilus said via Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle. “This time around, I’m better prepared and able to get the look that I need to do in my drops and understand the route combinations. I’m embracing it. It’s pretty cool to display that I can do more things than rush the passer. The coaches ask me to do a lot.”

• Sports Illustrated’s Jenny Vrentas expects Texans LB Jadeveon Clowney to play out the 2019 season on the franchise tag. 

Titans

Titans QB Marcus Mariota is on shaky ground as he heads into the final year of his contract in 2019 thanks to inconsistent play and injuries. The Titans traded for QB Ryan Tannehill, but HC Mike Vrabel says Mariota remains Tennessee’s starter.  

“His job as a backup — everybody’s job as a backup — is to push the guy in front of him,” Vrabel said per UPI. “To compete and try to make yourself better and try to make the team better and see how everybody responds.”