The Jacksonville Jaguars off coming off a tough Week 13 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals as they fell in overtime and now have to scrap to keep their lead in the AFC South.
The Jaguars have pieced together a solid season, though the team has a tough challenge in Week 14 against a stout Cleveland Browns defense.
Making matters even more difficult is Jacksonville could be without Trevor Lawrence who suffered a high-ankle sprain in the loss to Cincinnati.
Lawrence looked like he suffered a serious injury when left tackle Walker Little stepped on his ankle, but he and the team avoided disaster when it was announced that it was an ankle sprain.
The third-year quarterback was able to get some practice reps throughout the week, but his status for Sunday remains in question.
As a result, the Jaguars have signed Nathan Rourke to the active roster via Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.
With Trevor Lawrence a game-time decision for Sunday, the #Jaguars signed QB Nathan Rourke to the active roster, per source.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 9, 2023
This was an expected move for Jacksonville who probably won’t know Lawrence’s availability until right before kickoff.
C.J. Beathard would draw the start if Lawrence is unable to go, though the backup’s status is also up in the air as he was limited during the week as well.
Rourke was previously called up by the Jaguars, but waived a few days later before winding up back on the practice squad.
Rourke has success in the Canadian Football League and on paper seems to be a solid backup option, though it remains to be seen if he’ll actually be the one under center against the Browns.
NEXT: The Jaguars Have Made An Injury Decision On Christian Kirk