Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence named NFL star set to deliver even better numbers in 2023
Trevor Lawrence has gotten lots of recognition across the NFL for helping the Jacksonville Jaguars reach the playoffs and win the AFC South just one year after having to deal with Urban Meyer. However, he still has room for improvement, and Alex Kay of Bleacher Report believes the third-year quarterback is one of many NFL stars who could further their ceiling and post career numbers in 2023.
Kay drew up a list of established players who could deliver even better seasons in 2023 and believes Lawrence should benefit from the additions the Jags made in the offseason.
"The best is still ahead for this emerging superstar who already made the first of what should be many Pro Bowl nods last year. The Jags have surrounded Lawrence with even more weapons and improved his protection this offseason. Calvin Ridley is returning from a season-long suspension and is set to assume the No. 1 receiver role in the offseason, while first-round Anton Harrison and veteran free-agent Brandon Scherff are shoring up the trenches. "
As talented as Lawrence is, he couldn't overcome the lack of support he had as a rookie in 2021. Wide receiver Marvin Jones Jr., who was supposed to be WR2 became the top weapon in the passing game when DJ Chark Jr. suffered an ankle fracture. Laviska Shenault Jr. couldn't seize the opportunity and injuries to other players pushed former first-round pick Laquon Treadwell into a featured role.
The Jaguars realized they needed to get Lawrence helped, so they signed wide receivers Zay Jones and Christian Kirk. On top of that, they brought in tight end Evan Engram and right guard Brandon Scherff. Now, Calvin Ridley joins an already stacked wide receiver corps and their running room looks much better after the additions of Tank Bigsby and D'Ernest Johnson.
Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence is poised to be much better in 2023
Trevor Lawrence has rightfully gotten lots of attention ahead of the 2023 season and hearing his name being brought up when discussing the top passer in the league has become more common. And based on the upgrades the Jaguars have made, it wouldn't be shocking to see him be even better in Year 3.
The one thing potentially holding Lawrence back is the changes the offensive line underwent over the last few months. Walker Little is taking over at left tackle with Cam Robinson set to miss several games while serving a suspension for violations to the PED policy. Meanwhile, rookie Anton Harrison will line up at right tackle to replace long-time staple Jawaan Taylor, who signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in free agency.
On the other hand, Little flashed starting potential in five games (two in the postseason) last year. Similarly, right guard Brandon Scherff and center Luke Fortner should be better in their second season under offensive line coach Phil Rauscher. The one reason for concern is left guard Ben Bartch's availability or lack thereof. He might not be ready for training camp and if he isn't, veteran Tyler Shatley will then take his place in the lineup.
Keep in mind that Lawrence lined up behind pretty much the same offensive line last year (Harrison notwithstanding). While it's not perfect, it's not bad either, and having continuity should help the group improve next season.
All things considered, it's hard to see Lawrence regress in 2023. On the contrary, a leap isn't only expected but feels inevitable. Don't be surprised if he's the talk of the town in January... and maybe February.