Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence is likely to miss Sunday’s game against the Vikings due to a left shoulder injury, as reported by head coach Doug Pederson. Pederson indicated Friday that the team is leaning towards keeping Lawrence out to allow him time to recover fully. If Lawrence does sit out, Mac Jones, whom the Jaguars acquired in a trade earlier this year, will take over as the starting quarterback, with C.J. Beathard, recently signed off the Dolphins’ practice squad, serving as the backup.
This would mark only the second game Lawrence has missed since being drafted by the Jaguars in 2021. His first missed game came in Week 17 last season due to an injury to his right shoulder, his throwing shoulder. Lawrence sustained his current injury during the team’s close 28-23 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles when he was hit while running. Although he played through the injury and nearly led the team to a comeback, he ultimately threw a game-sealing interception in the final minutes.
Throughout the week, Lawrence’s practice time was limited, signaling concerns about his availability. Pederson suggested on his radio show that after last year’s experience, he’s more cautious about letting Lawrence play through injuries without adequate practice. He emphasized that the quarterback needs full practice reps to maintain rhythm and avoid aggravating his injuries. The coach’s stance reflects his commitment to Lawrence’s long-term health, especially as the team approaches critical parts of the season.
Lawrence has put up solid numbers this season, passing for 2,004 yards, 11 touchdowns, and six interceptions, though his 61.3% completion rate is one of the lowest of his career. Over his 59 games with the Jaguars, he has accumulated 13,774 passing yards, 69 touchdowns, and 45 interceptions, though he also leads the NFL in turnovers since his debut. Despite his turnover rate, Lawrence has shown improvement this season with only seven turnovers so far, indicating growth in his game management.
If Jones starts, it will be his first since Week 12 of 2023, when he struggled with two interceptions in the Patriots’ narrow loss to the Giants. His tenure in New England ended with a trade to Jacksonville after a challenging 18-24 record and being benched for the last six games. Jones, originally a 2021 first-round pick like Lawrence, has a career completion rate of 66.1% with 46 touchdowns and 36 interceptions. Though his time in Jacksonville has been limited, his experience as a former starter and Pro Bowler could provide stability for the Jaguars as they face the Vikings.
