Last-Minute Move: Minnesota Vikings At The Deadline By Acquiring This Linebacker at $108.7 Million from…See Details

In Sunday’s game against the Vikings, Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence is not anticipated to play due to his left shoulder injury, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapaport. The player who was selected first overall is currently “getting treatment and weighing options for the future,” which may involve surgery.

As a result, when the Vikings go to Jacksonville this weekend to play the 2-7 Jaguars, backup quarterback Mac Jones will most likely start for Minnesota. In theory, it makes Brian Flores’ defense an even better bet to win the game.

Regardless of the dismal record and average box score statistics, Lawrence has performed a respectably. Out of the 38 quarterbacks with 100 or more dropbacks this season, his PFF grade ranks ninth. He has completed roughly 61% of his passes for 2,004 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions. He’s an exceptional athlete with a tremendous arm.

Jones, who was drafted by the Patriots in the first round, lacks the ability to overwhelm opponents with spectacular plays. After a promising initial year in 2021, he faded and is currently serving as a backup. As a starter for the Patriots, he went 8–17 in his first two seasons while throwing 24 touchdown passes and 23 interceptions. Two brief appearances have been recorded this season, and out of nine dropbacks against the Bills in Week 3, he had two plays that were considered turnover-worthy (per PFF).

The Jaguars have lost by a single touchdown five times this season, including their most recent two games against the Eagles and Packers, so this news doesn’t necessarily bode well for Sunday’s Vikings matchup at EverBank Field. That being said, with Lawrence probably out for the game, Minnesota should have no trouble winning with a 6-2 record. Flores’ defense may have a field day against Jones, who is underwhelming in his little playing time this season and has trouble keeping the ball in his possession.