JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Jaguars’ season took a significant downturn Sunday after quarterback Trevor Lawrence suffered a concussion during a tackle by Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair, which teammates deemed a “dirty hit.”
This incident occurred as Lawrence was returning to the field following two games missed due to a left shoulder injury. Now, following the team’s 23-20 loss to the Texans, which leaves their record at 2-10, doubts arise about whether the Jaguars should consider shutting him down for the remainder of the season. Given Lawrence’s vital role in the Jaguars’ future—he signed a five-year, $275 million contract in the offseason—his health is a top priority.
Despite high hopes for this season, with owner Shad Khan calling it the best Jaguars team ever, the Jaguars face a myriad of challenges. Injuries have plagued the squad, the offense has regressed, and they now possess the worst defense in the league. These ongoing struggles have put both head coach Doug Pederson and general manager Trent Baalke’s futures in question.
Details regarding Lawrence’s injury show that he sustained the concussion after sliding following a 6-yard scramble. The hit caused his helmet to collide forcefully with the ground. Following the tackle, there were multiple altercations on the field that resulted in Al-Shaair’s ejection for an illegal hit and a personal foul called on Jaguars tight end Evan Engram for his reaction. Lawrence remained down on the field for several minutes and was later carted off the field, but he left the medical area sitting up, indicating a degree of stability.
Coach Pederson confirmed that Lawrence is now in concussion protocol but did not provide extensive details immediately after the game. However, he mentioned that he had spoken to Lawrence at halftime and stated that the quarterback “is going to be fine.” After the game, Lawrence walked out of the locker room with his wife, Marissa, and later posted on X, sharing that he was “home and feeling better.”
Progressing through the concussion protocol could take time, which adds uncertainty regarding his ability to practice and play in the coming weeks. Pederson remarked that if Lawrence doesn’t practice until late in the week, his chances of playing against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday may be slim.
Discussion surrounding whether to shut down Lawrence for the season is premature, according to Pederson, but it remains a realistic consideration. With Lawrence already managing an AC joint injury, and with key offensive players injured, prioritizing his long-term health may be crucial.
This is Lawrence’s second diagnosed concussion with the Jaguars and the third known concussion in his career, previously occurring during his collegiate years at Clemson. The franchise could take a more cautious approach, similar to that of Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who faced an extended recovery period after a concussion earlier this season.
Looking forward, Mac Jones will likely remain the backup quarterback if Lawrence cannot return for an extended period. C.J. Beathard, who served as an emergency quarterback against the Texans, offers additional depth, but Jones, who performed better in the recent game, may need to shoulder the load for now.
The season has certainly presented its fair share of challenges for the Jaguars. Yet, there is a sense of hope as the team looks to close the season with resilience and determination, keeping the focus on recovery and future potential rather than solely on disappointing results. The Jaguars can aim to regroup in the off-season and build a stronger, healthier team for 2025.