4 offseason predictions for the Jaguars (1 involves Trevor Lawrence's extension)

1. Trevor Lawrence won't get a new deal in 2024

The Jaguars made it clear last year that giving Trevor Lawrence was a matter of time. General manager Trent Baalke recently told the media that their stance hasn't changed. However, there haven't been any updates regarding Steezy Trev's contract status. It's easy to see why.

Lawrence, the first overall pick in the 2021 draft, still has one more year left on his rookie deal. However, there's a 99.9 chance Jacksonville will pick up his fifth-year option, effectively keeping him under contract through 2025. That gives them nearly a two-year window to get a deal done. The fact that there aren't many young quarterbacks set to get an extension should give the Jags a bit of a cushion.

In case things turned ugly (see the Josh Allen situation), the Jaguars could always use the franchise tag, which will allow them to hold onto Lawrence's rights until 2026. When you take into account that they have more pressing needs, contract negotiations with the former Clemson Tiger can take a backseat. By waiting to pay him, the front office can surround him with a much better supporting cast.

If that wasn't enough of a reason to put off negotiations, there's also the fact that Lawrence is coming off a somewhat disappointing season, failing to take a step forward in his development. Granted, injuries, an inexistent running game, and a porous offensive line played a huge role in his regression, but his stock took a hit regardless. He's better off waiting to increase his value and ask for the top-market money he deserves.

Circling back to Baalke's comments. Trevor Lawrence will get paid. It just won't be this year.

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