Jacksonville, FL – Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence faces an uncertain status for next Sunday’s critical game against the Carolina Panthers after injuring his right shoulder in Sunday’s 30-12 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Lawrence was hurt in the third quarter when he dove for a first down on a fourth-and-1 play and was shoved by Bucs linebacker Yaya Diaby. He landed hard on his throwing shoulder, sliding into the Tampa bench area.
“When I landed I knew something was off,” Lawrence said. “The next play it kind of hurts to throw.”
Lawrence stayed in to finish the drive, throwing a touchdown, but was clearly hampered trying to throw the ball. Backup CJ Beathard took over for the rest of the game.
On Monday, Lawrence will undergo further evaluation on the bothersome shoulder. When asked about the injury after the game, Lawrence admitted “It’s bugging me.” His status is now in doubt for next week’s pivotal matchup with Carolina.
The loss is the Jaguars’ fourth straight defeat, dampening a promising season. At 8-7, Jacksonville remains atop the lacklustre AFC South but saw its lead shrink. Coach Doug Pederson called it a near “crisis point” for the disappointing team.
Lawrence has started 49 straight games prior to the injury. But he’s dealt with ailments all season, including knee, ankle, and concussion issues. Sunday saw Jacksonville plagued by four turnovers and just 37 rushing yards.
With the playoffs still possible but chances dwindling, the Jaguars desperately need their star quarterback healthy. But Lawrence’s status remains uncertain as Carolina looms next week.