The Jacksonville Jaguars dropped to 3-7 on Sunday and the 2022 season is getting dangerously close to being a lost cause. But as the team looks toward the future, nothing is more important for the long-term health of the franchise than the continued growth of Trevor Lawrence.
The No. 1 pick of the 2021 NFL Draft had a rough rookie season with 12 touchdowns and 17 interceptions, but Lawrence has taken significant strides in year two. While he struggled for a stretch in October, Lawrence has been efficient and mistake-free so far in November.
“I thought he played well,” Jaguars coach Doug Pederson said of Lawrence’s showing in a 27-17 loss to the Chiefs. “He had great poise. I know there was some pressure in the first half that we eliminated in the second half. He played tough and had some big moments out there. He had some big throws. He just keeps showing improvement each week and that is all we can ask for.”
Lawrence, 23, finished with 29 completions on 40 attempts for 259 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions. He now has 13 touchdowns on the year with six interceptions.
“I feel really good with where we’re at as far as just being on the same page, especially myself and the receivers,” Lawrence said Sunday. “I feel like we’ve taken some big steps the last couple of weeks. Our group up front has done a great job all year. There’s a lot of stuff to learn. There are still too many missed opportunities in the passing game and run game, all over the place with plays that we can make. We’re going to look at those. I know we’re heading in the right direction, I’m confident in that.”
The Jaguars squandered multiple opportunities to score against Kansas City, including three first half drives into Chiefs territory. Jacksonville’s first drive of the game was stunted by a Christian Kirk drop, and a touchdown pass to Evan Engram in the third quarter was nullified by a penalty.
