The Jacksonville Jaguars are confronted with the potential setback of not only losing the game but also jeopardizing their position in the AFC playoff race on Monday night. In the 34-31 overtime loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence suffered an initially diagnosed ankle sprain, leading to an MRI scheduled for Tuesday, as reported by NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero.
Our full story on the ankle injury suffered by #Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence in Monday's loss to the #Bengals.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 5, 2023
👇👇👇 https://t.co/9v6aVO4i52
Post-game, Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson did not immediately provide an update but confirmed that Lawrence would undergo additional tests on Tuesday. According to NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe, Lawrence, despite being able to stand on his ankle in the locker room, was cautious while walking, avoiding putting pressure on it. Wolfe mentioned that Lawrence shared injury details with teammates, leaving some in good spirits after the conversation. Lawrence exited the locker room wearing a walking boot.
Tonight, Jacksonville @Jaguars’s Star Quarterback Trevor Lawrence had to be helped off the field and into the locker room after suffering an ankle injury.
— Laura Loomer (@LauraLoomer) December 5, 2023
The Jaguars lost 34-31 in Overtime to the Cincinnati @Bengals on Monday Night Football.
The @RonDeSantis Curse Continues! pic.twitter.com/Ggq6odBF1g
The injury occurred in the fourth quarter with the score tied at 28-28 and 5:25 remaining when Lawrence, in a dropback, was inadvertently stepped on by his offensive lineman, Walker Little. Lawrence was then awkwardly bent backward on the ground. Although he attempted to walk off the field, he eventually dropped back down and needed assistance from two trainers to return to the sidelines and proceed into the tunnel for evaluation.
Seasoned backup C.J. Beathard entered the game following a successful Cincinnati field-goal drive, leading a three-point drive of his own that forced overtime. Unfortunately, any glimmer of positivity for the Jaguars dissipated at that point.
In the extra frame, Beathard was unable to seize the opportunity, and Jacksonville had to punt after a 26-yard drive fell short. Consequently, the Bengals advanced down the field, securing a game-winning field goal courtesy of Evan McPherson. The defeat dropped the Jaguars to an 8-4 record, casting a shadow over the quarterback situation.
Trevor Lawrence has played a pivotal role in Jacksonville’s rise to contention over the past two years, never missing a game. On Monday, he showcased an impressive performance, contributing to a back-and-forth contest where the Jaguars defense yielded 491 total yards.
Upon his departure, Lawrence had completed 22 of 29 passes for 259 yards and two passing touchdowns, in addition to a rushing score. His 125.4 passer rating was a season-best, and his 75.9 completion percentage was the second-highest.
He had Jacksonville in a competitive position, providing an opportunity to secure the No. 1 seed. Currently positioned in the No. 4 slot, all eyes are now on the results of Lawrence’s MRI, which could significantly impact the remainder of Jacksonville’s season.
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