NFL draft

Times staff writer Sam Farmer examines NFL draft prospects by division. The draft is April 26-27. Today, the AFC South:

* INDIANAPOLIS: The Colts don’t have a first-round pick, and their first selection isn’t until 59th overall. Still, they have needs that can be fulfilled in this draft. First, they need depth at defensive end, someone who can rotate in for Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis, both coming off injuries. They could use a running back, too, and could probably get someone such as Jamaal Charles of Texas or East Carolina’s Chris Johnson at that spot.

* JACKSONVILLE: What was once a position of strength for the Jaguars is now a position of need. They are looking for defensive linemen, having lost tackle Marcus Stroud to Buffalo and end Bobby McCray to New Orleans. The team still has a lot of talent up front -- namely Paul Spicer, John Henderson and Derek Landri -- but the Jaguars need strength in numbers.

* TENNESSEE: Although the Titans could really use a defensive end, the best ones will be gone by the time they pick (24th). They also need a receiver, though, and there aren’t a lot of those worthy of being taken in the first round. DeSean Jackson of California and Limas Sweed of Texas are playmakers who could fit Tennessee’s system. Then again, the Titans might just shop the free-agent market for a receiver and draft a defensive play- er.

* HOUSTON: Age and injuries are catching up to the Texans, and they need players who can make an impact at two key spots: left tackle and cornerback. While the corner might have to play immediately in relief of the recovering Dunta Robinson, the left tackle can learn behind Ephraim Salaam. With the 18th pick, Houston should be able to get a very good, if not elite player at either position.

* NEXT: NFC North. For more, including Farmer’s mock draft, go to latimes.com/nfl.