Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson has seen growth from quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Not physically, but Lawrence has made strides as a leader going into his fourth year in the NFL and third in Pederson’s system.
Lawrence had an injury-riddled campaign last season and, self-admittingly, had turnover issues. But it hasn’t stopped him from becoming more of a vocal leader in all aspects of the team this offseason.
“When we got him three years ago, he was just learning our system and kind of quiet and just trying to go through the motions a little bit of just trying to adapt to us and get a feel for us,” Pederson said on Tuesday. “Now he’s engaging and giving us ideas. Now he’s giving us suggestions and ideas and really becoming another coach, a set of eyes on the field.”
Lawrence was one of several topics broached by Pederson as the Jaguars took the field for their fourth organized team activity session. He also offered the first public comments on the lawsuit filed against the team and former kicker Brandon McManus.
Pederson said prior to reading the story he hadn’t heard of the alleged incident, and he wasn’t able to comment until more information was gathered due to it being a legal issue.
Reports have been floated that the NFLPA is pushing to change the offseason program, eliminating voluntary OTAs and starting training camp earlier. Pederson gave his opinion on the matter before ultimately saying he’s for anything that helps the game of football grow.
“The offseason is great to kind of build a foundation and really see your young players,” he said. “Goes back to the developmental piece of your young guys. This is the time you want to start that foundation. You know, the players probably wouldn’t like training camp being extended. It’s long enough as it is.”
Observations: Jaguars conduct OTA No. 4, Etienne and Robinson were not present
- Travis Etienne and Cam Robinson were not at the practice with both having travel issues coming back to Jacksonville after the holiday weekend.
- Gabe Davis was in attendance for the first time during a media available practice session. He didn’t participate in any team drills but did positional work. Pederson gave an update on him as he recovers from a knee injury.
“Going to go slow with him. He worked in last week and he is going to work in some more today,” Pederson said. “Just keeping him out of the team stuff. Just don’t want to get tangled up and something to happen out there.”
- Travon Walker was able to get some individual work with Bill Shuey during the early stages of the practice. Arik Armstead, who is also recovering from an injury, was watching from the side.
- Christian Kirk and Trevor Lawrence showed off their chemistry, combining for a redzone touchdown during the 7-on-7 period. Kirk still stands out as the veteran receiver on the team and is oftentimes able to breeze past defenders.
- Jarrian Jones got a taste of playing outside cornerback during the team portion. As noted by defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen last week, players will be lined up all over during this time of year but the rookie did not look out of place at the position.
- Lawrence and receiver Brian Thomas Jr. continued to get their chemistry going. They connected on a deep pass during one of the periods. It was against air but it was still a small glimpse at what’s to come.
