Trevor Lawrence is making a strong effort to return to the field for the Jaguars, though his status remains unclear as he continues to contend with a persistent left shoulder injury.
The starting quarterback has missed two games due to a sprained AC joint and practiced earlier this week, with hopes to play against the Texans on Sunday. Nevertheless, the outlook for the long term is still uncertain.
Lawrence participated in the practice session on Monday, and according to head coach Doug Pederson, he was expected to take most of the first-team reps on Wednesday. This is an encouraging indication, yet Lawrence himself noted that the situation remains complicated.
In conversations with reporters, he recognized that the possibility of undergoing surgery to remedy the injury is “not off the table” and stressed that recovery will be assessed on a weekly basis.
“Hopefully I’m able to get back out there this week or as soon as possible, and then it’s going to be just every week kind of evaluating it, seeing where it’s at,” Lawrence stated via ESPN’s Michael DiRocco. “Up until this point, I’ve been doing everything I can to avoid [surgery] and want to be back out there with my guys to finish the season. That’s my goal.”
In Lawrence’s absence, backup Mac Jones has stepped in, achieving a record of 1-1 before the team’s bye. Jones is likely to start again if Lawrence is unable to play.
The Jaguars have an important game against a surging Texans team, and whether Lawrence plays could significantly influence the outcome. Currently, Jacksonville remains hopeful yet cautious, balancing the need for immediate results with the importance of long-term health.
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