The Jacksonville Jaguars haven’t had the 2024 season many expected after back-to-back winning seasons. While newly paid franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence hasn’t played at an elite level, he’s also been unavailable for a large portion of the season.
Lawrence’s latest injury could be the last time we see him on the field in 2024. Here’s what’s keeping the Jaguars quarterback out of the lineup.
Why Isn’t Trevor Lawrence Playing?
Lawrence suffered a scary injury during the team’s Week 13 matchup against the Houston Texans. After taking a late hit from Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair late in the second quarter, Lawrence appeared to assume the fencing posture, a telltale sign of a significant head injury.
Lawrence was sliding after a scramble, while the Houston linebacker appeared to have plenty of time to stop before launching his shoulder and forearm into Lawrence’s head. FOX broadcaster Daryl Johnston called Al-Shaair’s hit “egregious.”
Multiple brawls broke out after Al-Shaair’s hit on Lawrence. The linebacker was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct and ejected from Sunday’s game. The NFL suspended Al-Shaair for three games as well.
How Long Will Trevor Lawrence Be Out Due to Injury?
On Wednesday, the Jaguars placed Lawrence on injured reserve, ending his season. Even before the concussion, Lawrence was already dealing with a sprained AC joint in his non-throwing shoulder that could require surgery.
Now, he’ll be able to rest and let both injuries heal.
The Jaguars are currently 2-10 and have been eliminated from the playoffs, according to PFN’s Playoff Predictor, so it doesn’t make sense to bring Lawrence back this season.
Head coach Doug Pederson recently said that the Jaguars have “to be smart for his long-term health.”
The Jaguars currently own the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, though an extraordinarily easy schedule down the stretch could lead to a win or two that knocks them down in the order.
Still, that’s another reason to sit the quarterback for the remainder of the year and perhaps add a significant building block to the team for 2025.
Who is the Jaguars’ Starting Quarterback?
Mac Jones will start in Lawrence’s place, and he certainly represents a downgrade.
Previously, Jones started for the Jaguars in Weeks 10 and 11, throwing for just 249 total yards, no touchdowns, and three interceptions; both were Jacksonville losses.
In those two starts, Jones ranked dead last in passing success rate (31%) and next-to-last in EPA per dropback (-0.30).
Jones was more productive against the Texans on Sunday, completing 20 of 32 attempts for 235 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions.
With wide receivers Christian Kirk and Gabe Davis also out for the season, the Jaguars’ shiny stockpile of offensive skill position players has rapidly thinned out. Jacksonville will likely focus on getting reps for younger players like rookie Brian Thomas Jr. and second-year pro Parker Washington the rest of the way.