Jaguars HC reveals 'biggest' difference in QB Trevor Lawrence

The 23-year-old has earned the right to lead after a standout sophomore campaign. Lawrence struggled as a rookie, leading the league in interceptions (17) while finishing only 3-14 as a starter. In 2022, Lawrence had arguably one of the best seasons by a quarterback in Jaguars history, throwing for the second-most touchdowns (25) and third-most yards (4,113). Meanwhile, his completion percentage rose from 59.6 to 66.3, and Lawrence threw nine fewer interceptions. 

Lawrence's first foray into the NFL postseason had its ups and downs. He led the Jags to their first playoff victory in four seasons, but his numbers overall were underwhelming, throwing for 505 yards with five touchdowns and five interceptions and a QB rating of 72.1 over two games. Although, despite coming a touchdown shy of the AFC Championship Game, Lawrence has seemingly turned the page, per Pederson. 

With increased confidence combined with significant improvements on the field, Lawrence is an early dark horse in the MVP race. Lawrence's name doesn't hold the same weight as other quarterbacks, like Jalen Hurts, Josh Allen, Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes. However, that will quickly change if Lawrence helps the Jaguars build off last year's 9-8 finish. 

Buzz about a potential run at the MVP award for Lawrence is already beginning to creep up. ESPN's Mike Greenberg predicted Lawrence would win NFL MVP in 2023, while former player and Fox Sports analyst Emmanuel Acho said Lawrence would be in the "conversation," saying he could have a similar year to Carson Wentz's 2017 campaign with the Philadelphia Eagles, led by then-head coach, Pederson.