Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence Sends Clear Message to Brian Thomas Jr. on Early Season Struggles

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paul White | Last updated Sep 18, 2025 11:06 AM ET

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. was under fire this week for some questionable plays he made during the team’s loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.

Countless people accused the star wideout of shying away from contact and giving up on plays to avoid taking big hits.

Quarterback Trevor Lawrence and coach Liam Coen both seemed ticked off after the game, but declined to comment on the accusations directly. As the Jaguars attempt to get back on track this week, Lawrence opened up about his thoughts on Thomas Jr.

"Obviously we would've loved to start off hot ... We're in Week 2. So I think we can all just take a deep breath. Give BT a little space, he’s going to be just fine. Not worried about him at all,” said Lawrence.

Trevor Lawrence on Brian Thomas Jr., via @MiaOBrien:

"Obviously we would've loved to start off hot ... We're in Week 2. So I think we can all just take a deep breathe. Give BT a little space, he’s going to be just fine. Not worried about him at all."pic.twitter.com/3KBZwpg4sA
— Underdog NFL (@UnderdogNFL) September 17, 2025

The fifth-year quarterback doesn’t go without blame as some people have criticized his decision making, accusing him of consistently putting his receivers in danger with his throws.

Thomas Jr. had no problem looking like a superstar down the stretch of last season when backup quarterback Mac Jones was starting.

It’s inexplicable how he could go from performances hovering around 100 yards weekly, to catching just five passes in two games.

He and Lawrence have clearly had a tough time building chemistry, but there aren’t many people that the former college star has built a connection with.

Lawrence simply hasn’t been the player that he was expected to be throughout his high school and college career. He’s not very accurate and prone to turning the ball over, which lead many to believe that he’s more responsible for Thomas Jr.’s struggles.

Both players have a chance to put the criticisms behind them this week, but another performance like the Bengals game could lead to some burned bridges in Jacksonville.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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