The Jacksonville Jaguars’ season hangs in the balance as the franchise anxiously awaits word on quarterback Trevor Lawrence’s ailing left shoulder. The former No. 1 overall draft pick is carefully weighing his options, mulling a potential return to action this Sunday against the division rival Houston Texans or undergoing season-ending surgery to repair the damaged joint.
Lawrence, who suffered a sprained AC joint in his non-throwing shoulder during a Week 9 loss to the Eagles, has been sidelined for the Jaguars’ last two games – both losses that dealt a crushing blow to the team’s fading playoff aspirations. Now, with time running out to make a postseason push, the 22-year-old signal caller finds himself at a crossroads.
A Critical Decision for the Franchise Cornerstone
Lawrence, speaking to reporters Wednesday for the first time since the injury, stressed that surgery remains very much on the table. “It’s definitely something that I’m considering and not off the table at all,” the 2521 top pick admitted. “It’s something that we’re going to have to just [approach] truly day by day, week by week.”
The Clemson product also made it clear that his preference is to tough it out and return to the huddle as quickly as possible. “Hopefully I’m able to get back out there this week or as soon as possible,” Lawrence said. “That’s my goal.”
Head coach Doug Pederson confirmed that Lawrence was able to practice in a limited capacity Monday, his first on-field work since November 8th. The second-year passer reportedly took the majority of first-team reps during Wednesday’s session, an encouraging sign for his availability against Houston.
“Obviously I’m not going to commit, but it was a good start to the week.”
– Head Coach Doug Pederson on Lawrence’s practice participation
Assessing the Risks vs. Rewards
The Jaguars’ brain trust, in concert with their young quarterback and his representatives, must carefully weigh the pros and cons of an expedited return. On one hand, Jacksonville’s playoff hopes are on life support after back-to-back losses with backup QB Mac Jones at the controls. The offense sputtered mightily in Lawrence’s absence, mustering just 313 yards and 13 points combined against the Vikings and Lions.
Getting their offensive centerpiece back in the fold could provide a much-needed spark for a unit that’s struggled to find consistency all season long. Lawrence, after all, gives the Jags the best chance to win on a weekly basis and perhaps sneak into the postseason through the backdoor of an underwhelming AFC South.
The counterargument, of course, is the long-term risk associated with returning too soon and potentially exacerbating the injury. With the Jags realistically a long shot to make noise even if they do qualify for the playoffs, it may behoove both player and team to play it safe, get the surgery now, and come back at 100% in 2025.
“I think there’s a lot of things to consider … I’m going to factor in every day and kind see how I feel and obviously talk to our staff and see how it’s progressing.
– Trevor Lawrence on his approach to the decision
Verdict Still to Come
For now, the Jaguars are taking it day by day with their most important player. Lawrence’s practice participation and response will be monitored closely throughout the week leading up to Sunday’s divisional tilt. If he progresses without any setbacks, there’s a very real chance we see #16 back under center against Houston.
Should he experience any discomfort or limitations, however, the calculus changes. Lawrence was adamant that backup Mac Jones would get his share of practice reps this week as well, ensuring the second-stringer is prepared to start his third straight game if called upon.
The Clemson legend noted that his surgically repaired shoulder feels the best it has at any point since that fateful hit against Philadelphia. Even so, he’s taking a measured approach and weighing all key factors before rendering a final verdict on his status.
For the Jaguars and their long-suffering fan base, all eyes will be on QB1’s left shoulder in the coming days. The franchise’s short and long-term fate may very well hinge on one of the most important decisions of Trevor Lawrence’s young career.
