The Jacksonville Jaguars are facing more than just a setback in the AFC playoff race after Monday night’s game. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence suffered what was initially diagnosed as an ankle sprain in a 34-31 overtime loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, and an MRI is scheduled for Tuesday, according to NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero.
Following the game, Head coach Doug Pederson did not provide an update but confirmed Lawrence would undergo further tests on Tuesday. NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe reported that Lawrence was able to stand on his ankle in the locker room after the loss but avoided putting pressure on it. He shared information about the injury with teammates, and several seemed in good spirits after speaking with him. Lawrence left the locker room wearing a walking boot.
The injury occurred in the fourth quarter with the score tied 28-28 and 5:25 remaining. Lawrence was stepped on by his offensive lineman, Walker Little, during a dropback, causing him to bend awkwardly while on the ground. Although he attempted to walk off the field, Lawrence dropped back to the ground, requiring assistance from two trainers to reach the sidelines and enter the tunnel for evaluation.
In relief, veteran backup C.J. Beathard entered the game after a Cincinnati field-goal drive and led a three-point drive to force overtime. However, the Jaguars’ optimism ended there. Beathard couldn’t capitalize on the extra frame, leading to a Cincy punt after a 26-yard drive stalled. The Bengals then secured a game-winning field goal by Evan McPherson.
The defeat dropped the Jaguars to 8-4, casting a cloud over their quarterback situation. Lawrence has been a pivotal force in Jacksonville’s recent rise, never missing a game and contributing significantly to Monday’s back-and-forth contest, where the Jaguars’ defense yielded 491 total yards.
At the time of his departure, Lawrence had completed 22 of 29 passes for 259 yards and two passing touchdowns, along with a rushing score. His passer rating of 125.4 was his season’s best, and his 75.9 completion percentage was the second-best. Despite his efforts, the Jags now hold the No. 4 slot.
All eyes are on the results of Lawrence’s MRI, as it could determine the course of Jacksonville’s season.