The Jacksonville Jaguars are facing a crossroads right now.
Trevor Lawrence suffered a high ankle sprain in Monday night’s overtime loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, and he had to be helped off the field.
While the injury isn’t believed to be major, we’re talking about a short week, and he still needs to clear some hurdles to get back on the field.
Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network reported that Lawrence practiced today, albeit limited.
“My understanding is that he has to prove a lot to get on the field this weekend,” Rapoport said.
From @GMFB: The latest on the status of #Ravens QB Lamar Jackson and #Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence. pic.twitter.com/56FezhjC1E
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 8, 2023
The Jaguars reportedly won’t put Lawrence’s long-term health at risk by rushing him back to the field, nor will they risk the team’s health by rolling with a QB who’s clearly not ready to play.
There’s still a chance that Lawrence will be ready to take the field in their must-win game vs. the Cleveland Browns, but it seems like he’s a ways away from that as of now.
Notably, his backup, C.J. Beathard, was also a limited participant in practice with a left shoulder injury, although Rapoport states that he would be ready to play if need be.
The Jaguars are still on top of the AFC South Division, but the Houston Texans and Indianapolis Colts are just one game behind them, so it’s not like they can rest on their laurels and afford a loss on Sunday.
As for the Browns, the Pittsburgh Steelers’ loss to the New England Patriots put them in a prime position to hold onto the Wild Card spot, but that will be meaningless if they don’t beat the Jaguars at home.
NEXT: Video Shows Jaguars Star Back At Practice After Injury