Trevor Lawrence is pushing hard to get back on the field for the Jaguars, but his status remains uncertain as he continues to deal with a nagging left shoulder injury.
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The starting quarterback, who has been sidelined for two games with a sprained AC joint, practiced earlier this week and is aiming to suit up against the Texans on Sunday. Still, the long-term outlook is murky.
Lawrence took part in Monday's session and, according to head coach Doug Pederson, was slated to handle the bulk of first-team reps on Wednesday. That's a promising sign, but Lawrence himself acknowledged the situation is far from straightforward.
Speaking to reporters, he admitted that surgery to address the injury is "not off the table" and emphasized that recovery will be monitored on a week-to-week basis.
"Hopefully I'm able to get back out there this week or as soon as possible and then it's going to be just every week kind of evaluating it, seeing where it's at," Lawrence said via ESPN's Michael DiRocco. "Up until this point, I've been doing everything I can to avoid [surgery] and want to be back out there with my guys to finish the season. That's my goal."
Backup Mac Jones has filled in during Lawrence's absence, going 1-1 before the team entered its bye. Jones would likely get the nod again if Lawrence is unable to go.
The Jaguars face a crucial matchup with a rising Texans team, and Lawrence's presence — or absence — could go a long way in determining the outcome. For now, Jacksonville remains hopeful but cautious, as the balance between short-term success and long-term health hangs in the balance.
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