Jags coach: Sooner the better for Trevor Lawrence extension

Jacksonville Jaguars coach Doug Pederson stated on Monday that negotiations for a long-term contract extension for franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence are currently in progress. Pederson expressed hope that the deal will be finalized sooner rather than later. Lawrence is slated to earn $5.6 million this season, with the Jags exercising his fifth-year option for 2025 at $25.6 million if an extension is not reached. It is anticipated that Lawrence will soon join the $50 million club once negotiations are complete. “I think it’s part of the business,” Pederson told reporters, emphasizing the importance of getting the deal done promptly so that the team can focus on football without distractions. Several other quarterbacks, including Joe Burrow, Jared Goff, Justin Herbert, Lamar Jackson, and Jalen Hurts, already earn over $50 million per season, with Dak Prescott expected to join them soon as he enters the final year of his contract with the Dallas Cowboys. Pederson reiterated that discussions between Jaguars GM Trent Baalke and Lawrence’s agent are ongoing and expressed confidence that the contract extension will be finalized. Lawrence, aged 24, has achieved Pro Bowl status in 2022 and holds a 20-30 record as a starter. He has thrown for 11,770 yards with 58 touchdowns and 39 interceptions since being drafted as the No. 1 overall pick in 2021, in addition to rushing for 964 yards and 11 scores. –Field Level Media