Florida’s Jacksonville (AP) — The Jaguars are getting ready to play without their best quarterback in three seasons as Trevor Lawrence stayed in the NFL’s concussion protocol on Wednesday.
Although Lawrence is “progressing well,” coach Doug Pederson would not speculate on whether or not Lawrence will receive clearance before Sunday’s game at Tampa Bay (7–7).
“Persistent in the procedure,” Pederson stated. “Going well, but we have to follow the instructions; we can’t omit any of them.”
In Sunday’s 23-7 loss to Baltimore, the Jaguars (8-6) think Lawrence suffered a head injury while scurrying across the middle during the team’s last drive. Following the collision, Lawrence misfired on seven of his last eight passes, a run of plays that caused some concern for his health on the sidelines. Lawrence described his post-game symptoms.
Prior to their upcoming games, San Francisco quarterback Brock Purdy, Cleveland WR Amari Cooper, and New Orleans receiver Chris Olave were cleared to play a week after entering the league’s concussion protocol.
Backup C.J. Beathard would make his first start since the 2020 campaign if Lawrence is not cleared. Over the past two seasons, Lawrence has had some dubious plays, yet he managed to avoid missing a start. He overcame a damaged toe the previous season, a sprained knee in October, and a high ankle sprain in the last three weeks to continue playing.
The Jaguars are tied for first place in the AFC South with Houston and Indianapolis after three straight losses. But divisional tiebreakers keep Jacksonville in charge of their postseason fate.
In addition to losing left lineman Cam Robinson (knee) and receiver Christian Kirk (groin), the Jags would have a whole new challenge in trying to qualify for the postseason for the first time since 1998–1999 if Lawrence were to stay healthy.
According to Pederson, the concussion protocol is unique since Lawrence might not be able to participate in practices or meetings.
Pederson stated, “You have to follow the steps, and it is really based on symptoms and how he feels.” “He attends those meetings, receives the game plan, listens, and does all of that if it’s his knee or ankle. You only need to handle each situation individually.
This season, Lawrence has passed for 3,525 yards, 18 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. In addition, he has six fumbles, four touchdowns on the ground, and a career-high 32 sacks.
“The primary concern is ensuring that he is fully healthy and has received clearance from all relevant experts,” Pederson stated. “After that, you have to decide as a team and also assess his current situation. I suppose it makes things harder, for sure.
