The Jacksonville Jaguars are enduring a catastrophic 2024 season, sitting at a dismal 2-9 record and vying for the unenviable title of the NFL’s worst team. Adding to their woes, franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence, fresh off signing a $275 million contract, is battling a shoulder injury that could require surgery.
Lawrence’s Health: To Play or Not to Play?
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler recently reported that shoulder surgery is on the table for Lawrence if the Jaguars opt to shut him down for the rest of the season. Lawrence himself hasn’t ruled out an in-season procedure, raising a pivotal question for the franchise:
Should Jacksonville bench their star quarterback for the remainder of the year?
Given the circumstances, this might be the Jaguars’ best option. Any playoff hopes are now a pipe dream, even if the team hasn’t been mathematically eliminated. Realistically, the Jaguars would finish no better than 8-9, even if they miraculously win out.
Long-Term Vision vs. Short-Term Gains
Pushing Lawrence to play risks aggravating his shoulder injury, a gamble that could jeopardize both his health and Jacksonville’s long-term prospects. Considering the slim chance of postseason success, it’s worth asking whether winning a couple more games this season justifies the risk.
From a strategic standpoint, finishing with the league’s worst record offers a silver lining: the opportunity to draft Colorado phenom Travis Hunter with the No. 1 overall pick. The cornerback/wide receiver hybrid is a generational talent who could instantly elevate the Jaguars on both sides of the ball.
Bright Spots in a Dim Season
Despite their struggles, the Jaguars boast a roster brimming with potential:
Brian Thomas Jr. is shaping up as a top-tier wide receiver in his rookie season.
Tank Bigsby has shown flashes of brilliance as a dynamic running back.
Josh Hines-Allen continues to terrorize opposing quarterbacks as one of the league’s premier pass rushers.
Tyson Campbell is a cornerstone in the secondary, providing stability and playmaking ability.
And, of course, there’s Lawrence. While his 2024 campaign has been marred by inconsistency, the Jaguars’ commitment to making him the highest-paid player in NFL history underscores their belief in his potential to lead the franchise to glory.
What’s Next for Jacksonville?
The Jaguars aren’t in full rebuild mode. They possess the building blocks to be competitive sooner rather than later. However, risking Lawrence’s health for a lost season would be shortsighted.
Unless doctors give Lawrence an unequivocal green light, sitting him for the remainder of the season seems like the prudent choice. Jacksonville’s focus should now shift toward the 2025 season, ensuring their star quarterback is fully healthy and maximizing their draft capital to strengthen the roster.
Fans’ Take and Next Steps
What do you think? Should the Jaguars prioritize Lawrence’s health and sit him out, or is there merit in playing him to salvage some pride this season?
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