Trevor Lawrence Poised for Friday-Night Preseason Appearance

The Jacksonville Jaguars opened preseason with a 24-20 win over the New Orleans Saints at the Caesars Superdome, fielding only backup players. Head coach Liam Coen told reporters that the franchise quarterback, Trevor Lawrence, and the rest of the starters are “trending towards” playing in the next preseason matchup on Friday night against the Carolina Panthers in Jacksonville. Coen said the team needs additional practice time after the Saints game before giving Lawrence snaps.

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Lawrence concluded the 2025 campaign by throwing for 4,007 yards and a career-high 29 passing touchdowns, while adding 359 rushing yards and nine rushing scores—both personal bests. He appeared in all 17 regular-season games for the first time in three years, guiding the Jaguars to a 13-4 record, the franchise’s best win total since 1999, and a playoff berth. Although longtime teammate Travis Etienne Jr. departed in the offseason, Jacksonville retains its full receiving corps, a group of promising young running backs, and a top-ranked defense.

Newsweek

He indicated the goal is to see Lawrence take a few drives on Friday night, pending further preparation.

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• Passing yards: 4,007

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• Passing touchdowns: 29 (career high)

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• Rushing yards: 359 (career high)

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• Rushing touchdowns: 9 (career high)

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• Games played: 17 (first full season in three years)

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• Team record: 13-4, highest since 1999

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If Lawrence returns to form in the final preseason game, the Jaguars could enter the 2026 regular season with momentum toward a second consecutive AFC South title—an achievement the franchise has never attained. His presence, combined with a stable receiving group and a strong defense, positions Jacksonville as a contender in the division.

Newsweek

• “I think that's the goal right now, is to look at potentially playing him [Lawrence] a little Friday night,” — Liam Coen, head coach

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