Even though the preparation for the regular season is just beginning, former All-Pro cornerback Asante Samuel raised concerns about Trevor Lawrence. He made a few valid points but failed to take into account that he's coming off shoulder surgery. For their part, the Jacksonville Jaguars don't appear to be particularly worried, and a local beat writer argues that there's nothing to worry about.
Hays Carlyon of 1010 XL had an exchange with colleague Mia O'Brien and said that he's surprised that Lawrence has been the subject of controversy, pointing out that he's generally fared well in the OTA practices that have been opened to the media.
"I think that you have to keep in mind that he's coming off surgery and don't play until September," Carlyon responded when O'Brien asked him how he would evaluate Lawrence. "I agree, I don't get that notion either that he's struggling, you know? I've also seen, are they concerned about Travis Hunter, what? There does seem to be some things that are floating. I don't know why they're floating out there, but they are. But I don't put a lot of stock in either."
"Carlyon continued, "And yearh, I mean, the thing that I like about where Trevor is, and it's more of a compliment to Liam Coen, but I've been really impressed — not to get like too far into the weeds out of this — but the quick passing, I think it looks sharp, and I think that's going to give Trevor the ability to put up some numbers in doing so, in things that are very easy for him, just ball out of his hands, but getting it like Brian Thomas Jr., Travis Hunter, Dyami Brown..."
Later in the exchange, Carlyon says that he doesn't have any concerns and goes as far as saying that he's actually encouraged because Lawrence has quickly picked up the playbook and has run a smooth operation.
Carlyon isn't alone in his assessment of Lawrence. Juston W. Lewis says that, apart from an interception he threw, the fifth-year quarterback was otherwise much better on the second day of OTAs.
For context, Lawrence raised eyebrows because some of his passes were a bit off. Samuel was among the most vocal observers. But as noted before, the former Clemson Tiger is still recovering from a shoulder injury he suffered last season and is currently on a pitch count. As the offseason progresses, he'll see his reps ramp up. For the time being, though, the coaching staff is limiting his workload.
It's also worth pointing out that Lawrence is fine-tuning his footwork, an area Liam Coen said he would put an emphasis on that area of his game. When you add it all up, it's understandable that he's going to look a bit rusty, which is likely why both Carlyon and O'Brien are unfazed.
The Jaguars expect Trevor Lawrence to bounce back in 2025
It would be one thing if Trevor Lawrence were tossing interceptions early in the regular season, but he's got plenty of time to get ready. The Jacksonville Jaguars, for their part, have done their part to ensure he's in a position to bounce back.
Aside from dealing with injuries the past two years, Lawrence didn't have an adequate supporting cast. Realizing he needed better weapons and protection, the new regime beefed up the offensive line and made upgrades at the wide receiver corps. With an improved supporting cast, the Knoxville Tennessee native now has no excuses. He must now do his part and deliver.
Of course, the Jaguars should be concern if Lawrence gets off to a slow start to the season. But until then, there's no reason to press the panic button.
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