Jaguars unsure about timing for Trevor Lawrence contract extension

Oct 10, 2021; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) gestures after scoring a touchdown during the second half against the Tennessee Titans at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports

The Jacksonville Jaguars appear to view Trevor Lawrence as their franchise quarterback, but they’re not in a hurry to sign him to a contract extension.

Jags GM Trent Baalke spoke with the media on Thursday. During his media appearance, Baalke addressed Lawrence’s contract status. The GM said the team will have a “heart to heart” talk with Lawrence about whether a contract extension will happen this offseason or next year.

Baalke says they will have "heart to heart" with Trevor Lawrence this offseason about whether a long-term extension happens now or in 2025. #Jaguars

— Eugene Frenette (@GeneFrenette) January 25, 2024

It sure sounds like the Jags want to wait until next year before giving Lawrence a big contract extension.

Lawrence just completed his third season in the NFL. He is due to make $5.4 million in 2024, and the Jaguars will almost certainly pick up his fifth-year player option for 2025. Then if all goes well, the Jags will replace the 2025 option amount with a much larger amount from the contract extension.

The Jags wanting to push back a contract extension for Lawrence would likely be a reflection of how the team’s 2023 season went. Lawrence passed for 4,016 yards, 21 touchdowns and 14 interceptions, while rushing for 339 yards and 4 touchdowns. His touchdown and interception numbers worsened from 2022, when he had 25 TD passes and just 8 interceptions.

Jacksonville also missed the playoffs this season despite going 9-8 for the second straight year.