Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence sustained high ankle sprain vs. Bengals; not ruled out for Week 14
Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence sustained a right high ankle sprain during the team's 34-31 overtime loss to to the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday night, Jacksonville head coach Doug Pederson told reporters Tuesday.
The injury is not expected to require surgery, Pederson added. When asked about Lawrence's availability for Sunday's matchup against the Cleveland Browns, Pederson didn't rule him out but avoided placing a timeline on his return. He emphasized the 24-year-old will be monitored in the coming days.
This is a seemingly positive update after Lawrence went down with what looked to be a serious injury in the fourth quarter.
As the quarterback was tackled, Jaguars left tackle Walker Little was pushed toward him by Bengals pass rusher Trey Hendrickson and inadvertently stepped on his right ankle. Lawrence landed awkwardly and struggled to get up. He was seen limping to the locker room with the assistance of Jaguars staff before NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported the initial diagnosis of an ankle sprain.
On Tuesday, Pederson noted three factors as he discussed Lawrence's ability to avoid serious injury: his length, ability to protect himself, and luck.
Pederson made a less optimistic announcement about wide receiver Christian Kirk on Wednesday, too. The 27-year-old sustained a core muscle injury that will keep him out for "some time." Kirk exited Monday's loss following a 26-yard reception on Jacksonville's first offensive play of the game. He was ruled out at halftime with what was initially reported as a groin injury.
Coach Pederson provides an injury update. pic.twitter.com/aTjDzQx4ws
— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) December 5, 2023
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes sustained a high ankle sprain during a win over the Jaguars in the AFC divisional round last season. He came back and continued to play with the injury against the Bengals in the AFC championship game and during the Super Bowl victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.
Pederson said he would like to have Lawrence at "100%" before he returns. Lawrence's backup is C.J. Beathard, who went 9-of-10 for 63 yards in his absence Monday night.
