Quarterback’s turnovers and inaccurate throws overshadow $275 million contract
CINCINNATI (AP) — Trevor Lawrence threw two interceptions and missed repeatedly on key throws as the Jacksonville Jaguars lost 31-27 to the Bengals on Sunday, falling to 1-1.
Now in his fifth season, Lawrence is playing under a five-year, $275 million extension signed in June 2024. The deal includes $200 million guaranteed. The contract and expectations are high; the performance was not.
Lawrence completed 24 of 42 passes for 271 yards and three touchdowns, but his turnovers and poor accuracy shifted the game. On a third-and-goal in the first quarter, he forced a throw that Bengals safety Dax Hill intercepted in the end zone. In the second half, another interception to safety Jordan Battle gave Cincinnati the ball at Jacksonville’s 30-yard line. The Bengals converted the short field into points.
Late in the fourth quarter, with Jacksonville leading 27-24, an inaccurate throw to Dyami Brown drew a visibly frustrated reaction from Coen. Broadcast cameras caught Coen slamming his chest and signaling “hit them in the chest,” apparently urging Lawrence to make a more precise throw. Lawrence responded with a dismissive wave before the next play.
Beyond that moment, Lawrence’s accuracy remained inconsistent. Rookie receiver Brian Thomas Jr. was targeted 12 times but caught only four passes, with several passes from Lawrence poorly thrown and inaccurate. On a pivotal fourth-and-five late in the fourth quarter, he again missed Thomas, turning the ball over on downs.
While Lawrence connected for touchdowns with Dyami Brown, Bhayshul Tuten and Travis Etienne, those scoring plays were overshadowed by inconsistency.
Bengals backup quarterback Jake Browning, in after Joe Burrow exited with an injury, led a 92-yard touchdown drive in the final minutes for the win.
Five years in, Lawrence’s talent and potential remain unquestioned. But with his new deal in place, the margin for error is shrinking. For Jacksonville to contend, he must consistently deliver — avoiding the turnovers, errant throws, and sideline friction that defined Sunday’s loss.
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