The Jacksonville Jaguars are making preparations for Trevor Lawrence to start in Sunday’s matchup against the Cleveland Browns. However, a final decision hinges on evaluating the franchise quarterback during pregame warmups, according to sources informed by ESPN.
Despite being only six days removed from a high ankle sprain, an injury typically sidelining players for weeks, Lawrence is determined to maintain his unbroken streak of never missing a game due to injury, spanning from high school through college to nearly three full seasons in the NFL. Facing the formidable Browns defense, Lawrence’s resilience will be put to the test, with backup quarterback C.J. Beathard poised to start if any issues arise during pregame warmups. As an additional precaution, the Jaguars have elevated quarterback Nathan Rourke from the practice squad to the active roster for Sunday’s game.
Officially listed as questionable after limited practice reps, Lawrence’s physical and mental strength are believed by the Jaguars to enable him to swiftly recover from his ankle injury. Jacksonville draws parallels to a similar situation in mid-October when Lawrence sustained a left knee injury during a victory over the Colts. Despite initial doubts about his availability, Lawrence not only played the following week but delivered a standout performance in a Thursday night game against New Orleans, showcasing resilience by completing 20 of 29 passes for 204 yards, with one touchdown and a career-high 59 rushing yards.
The high ankle sprain occurred in Jacksonville’s recent loss to the Bengals, but coach Doug Pederson expressed optimism on Friday, stating that Lawrence was “feeling good” and had engaged in some movement during the previous day’s practice.
