Jaguars’ Hopes Diminish as Contract Talks with Trevor Lawrence Hit Uncertainty, Says Doug Pederson
Jacksonville Jaguars General Manager Trent Baalke is reportedly very eager to secure a contract extension for quarterback Trevor Lawrence before his fourth NFL season.
Head Coach Doug Pederson addressed the topic in a Monday press conference.
“It’s part of the business,” Pederson told reporters, according to Eric Edholm of the NFL’s website and Myles Simmons of Pro Football Talk. “Getting it done sooner means it’s off everyone’s minds, and we can focus on football without distractions. Trent and [Lawrence’s] agent are in ongoing talks, working hard on this. My job is to coach Trevor and the team, and hopefully, it gets resolved soon.”
Lawrence, the top pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, had a tough rookie season under Urban Meyer before Pederson took over in February 2022. Together, Pederson and Lawrence led the Jaguars to a playoff victory in January 2023. However, Lawrence faced several injuries last season, causing Jacksonville to miss the playoffs despite an 8-3 start.
Per ESPN stats, Lawrence ended the 2023 season ranked 18th in adjusted QBR with a score of 56.1 and 10th in average passing yards per game with 251. Over 16 games, he threw 21 touchdown passes and 14 interceptions.
The Jaguars have already exercised the fifth-year option for 2025 on Lawrence’s rookie contract, but extending his contract this summer could be cost-effective as quarterback salaries rise each offseason. Pederson also discussed on Monday how the 24-year-old can develop as a leader during the preseason and assist new teammates, like rookie wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr., in preparing for Week 1.
“Veteran players are looked up to,” Pederson said of Lawrence. “His ability to integrate and support young players, like Brian, is crucial.”
As of Monday afternoon, DraftKings Sportsbook had the Jaguars at +240 odds, just behind the Houston Texans at +110, to win the AFC South title this coming season. Lawrence might get more guaranteed money if he chose to wait, played out the season, and then helped Jacksonville reach the playoffs again in January 2025.
However, it appears he could sign an extension anytime between now and the regular-season opener against the Miami Dolphins on September 8.
