Could the Indianapolis Colts really win the division in 2026? It’s easier said than done, but it could certainly happen. There is another path the Colts could take in 2026, however. It’s dark and would have lasting repercussions, but it too is possible. Things could go sideways, and the Colts could find themselves at the bottom of the barrel in the AFC South.
Would it take a ton to go belly up this year? Well, it would be disappointing if the Colts spiraled to the bottom of the division, but it wouldn’t
be the craziest thing to ever happen. The NFL is all about parity; worst to first is commonplace. Seeing the Titans do that would be shocking, but it doesn’t mean Cam Ward can’t move the needle in year two. There are plenty of changes starting at the top to indicate things in Tennessee could be different this year. Remember too that the Colts finished third last year. There was a sizable gap between third and fourth record-wise, but it wouldn’t be a dramatic drop.
Much of what is needed to win an AFC South divisional crown comes down to health. If those defensive players who missed substantial time continue that trend, it will be another long season. Defensive health will be an afterthought, though, if the Colts don’t get competent quarterback play. Daniel Jones’ status is still up in the air. Even if he is ready by Week 1, how much preparation time will he have missed? Carrying too much rust into a season is a recipe for disaster. Riley Leonard or Anthony Richardson starting for even a handful of games could put the Colts behind the eight-ball early. Throw in a bumpy start to the schedule and the Colts could be several games back after the first few weeks.
Watching last year, it is difficult to see the Colts dropping past the Titans, but 2026 is a new year. Anything can happen in the NFL as teams come out of nowhere regularly. A tough start to the year with a question mark at the game’s most important position spells trouble. If the worst case scenario happens, expect more changes than just the Colts’ standing in the division.
