Trevor Lawrence, the former Clemson wonder, went first overall in the 2021 NFL Draft. He has had a rocky road in his brief professional career. Moving from the college game to the NFL was a big adjustment for him. His rookie campaign under head coach Urban Meyer was downright brutal. As he navigates through the complexities of offensive schemes and mechanical adjustments, Lawrence’s performance trajectory has shown significant improvement, making headlines in recent weeks.
During those first 12 weeks in the league, Lawrence had several obstacles to overcome. He even had a rough go with some consistency working under three different offensive coordinators in five years. The heat only mounted as he finished out that mile. With a passer rating of only 79.4, he finished the season in 27th place for NFL quarterbacks. The young quarterback has undergone an incredible transformation through the second half of the season. He is further proving his case as a generational talent.
Early Challenges and Coaching Changes
Our extended look at his rookie season turned difficult when Urban Meyer’s tempestuous one-year run as head coach undermined Lawrence’s development. This created an outcry around coaching continuity and development of talent across the Jacksonville Jaguars roster. Meyer’s big-picture thinking about national strategy and leadership did not resonate with a majority of players. Lawrence especially required a favorable climate in order to pop.
As Lawrence adjusted to the professional game, he saw the challenge become even more complex due to a constantly shifting offensive philosophy. In just five years, he was forced to learn under the helm of three different offensive coordinators, each with their own ideas, philosophies and systems. These transitions were abrupt, and it showed greatly in his performance through the first half of the season. He fought to change his game to fit the new systems while simultaneously fighting mechanical problems.
Despite these setbacks, Lawrence displayed resilience. He threw 14 touchdowns to 11 interceptions Weeks 1-12. His passer rating kept failing to live up to the hype. It was evident what the struggles were. Every challenge on the pitch turned into an opportunity for him to mature as he continued to evolve from the challenge.
A Turning Point in Performance
Starting in Week 13, Lawrence played at an MVP level. In that time frame, he went 53-for-89 for 803 yards. This was his best performance of the season as far as his efficiency and decision-making goes. He scored a remarkable nine rushing touchdowns without throwing a single interception. This remarkable showing raised his QB rating through the roof, to a heady 123.0.
This turnaround did not go unnoticed. The Jaguars definitely realized the need for an effective coaching plan. They hired Liam Coen — Lawrence’s offensive coordinator at the University of Kentucky — to figure out how to best utilize that “generational” talent. Coen’s touch has been instrumental in helping to dial in Lawrence’s mechanics and decision-making.
“If I want to keep doing this, I have to have fun doing it.” – Joe Burrow
Lawrence’s new confidence was noticeable as he dazzled with inside out throws and a commanding presence. His resurgence uplifted his own play more than any other player on this list and rejuvenated the Jaguars’ offense with a jolt of energy. With fans and coaches equally optimistic,
Comparisons and Future Prospects
As Lawrence’s game developed, comparisons with other new, breakout stars like Joe Burrow started cropping up. Burrow was picked first overall in the 2020 NFL draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. When on the field, his track record shows he’s an elite quarterback, one of the best in the NFL when healthy. In getting past the turf toe that sometimes held him back a bit, Burrow has found his happy medium. When he’s had the opportunity, he’s shone, due in large part to one of the league’s top wideout tandems, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
The juxtaposition of Lawrence’s early career woes with Burrow’s success only serves to emphasize the different paths that quarterback development can take in the NFL. Though Burrow has enjoyed instant success in the face of early misfortunes, Lawrence’s experience shows a reverse story and one defined by trials and perseverance.
“I’ve been through a lot, and if it’s not fun, then what am I doing it for? So, that’s the mindset I’m trying to bring to the table.” – Joe Burrow
As both quarterbacks move along their journeys deeper into this league, they are two sides to the coin of resilience versus destiny. If recent performances are any indication, Lawrence is well on his way to carving out his own legacy.
Looking Ahead
With the season’s conclusion approaching, Trevor Lawrence’s resurgence is prompting optimism among Jaguars fans and analysts alike. His ability to adapt and improve under pressure is a testament to not only his work ethic, but his drive and determination to succeed. Their decision to hire Liam Coen as an Associate Head Coach seems to be paying dividends as they continue to develop his skills together.
We’ve seen Trevor Lawrence’s ability to create big plays when something isn’t there. One key play saw freshman Alec Pierce make a huge 16-yard catch to move the sticks on a third-and-seven down. This backside fade ball showcased his improving command and execution in a real game situation.
Certainly as he works to keep developing his craft over the next few seasons, the expectations will be there. The Jaguars franchise knows how crucial their investment in Lawrence is. They recognize it must produce or else they’ll miss their window to join the playoff field in the next few years.