The Jacksonville Jaguars recently doubted they could keep Trevor Lawrence for a long time after signing rookie Brian Thomas Jr. to a full contract.
Many thought they might not have the money to keep their main quarterback.
People are probably overanalyzing things, as the Jaguars did not just lock Lawrence for multiple seasons; they also made him the highest-paid player in the league.
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The Associated Press reported that the two camps agreed to a five-year extension worth $275 million.
"Lawrence's deal includes $142 million fully guaranteed and a $37.5 million signing bonus, said the person who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because neither side had announced the contract publicly," the publication wrote on Thursday.
With this deal, Lawrence ties Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals as the highest-paid QB of 2024 with a projected $55 million annual salary.
Interestingly, Lawrence became the fifth player to receive the highest-paid quarterback tag since 2023 after Burrow, Jalen Hurts, Lamar Jackson, and Justin Herbert. All these guys will receive $50 million, and the Jaguars quarterback is the youngest.
He also becomes the first Jaguar draftee to receive an extension from his rookie year.
Trevor Lawrence contract extension - a gamble?
Lawrence was the team's no. 1 overall pick in 2021 and was named to the Pro Bowl the following year.
His current record as a starter is 21-31. He has 64% in pass completion, leading to 11,770 yards, with 58 touchdowns and 39 interceptions.
However, he is also among the most turnover-prone QBs since the 1970s.
Head coach Doug Pederson knows Lawrence can improve, and the contract extension comes at a time his quarterback is realizing his potential.
"It takes that time to develop into the quarterback that you want to become or you want for your team. And it's just not an overnight deal. It's not a plug-and-play deal. Some teams, some guys are going to have success, but there is that just understanding the game and learning the game and studying the game," he said.
While his record is not as impressive as that of the other guys in the Top 5 of highest quarterbacks, his impact on the team earned him the massive pay.
He is credited for the change of culture in the team, going from a low-tier team to two straight playoff appearances.
Lawrence and Brian Thomas Jr. duo
General manager Trent Baalke made it known as early as April that they would renew Lawrence.
However, they also needed to surround him with players matching his football style.
This is why wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. received a four-year rookie deal.
Baalke raved about the 23rd overall draft pick and said he would be Lawrence's great offensive partner.
The team plans to build around this duo in the coming years.
"He's an explosive athlete. He can help open up the field a little bit," he said.
"He's certainly a younger receiver for Trevor to build around and our offense to build around."
Related article: Jacksonville Refuses to Learn WR Lesson as They Offer Full Contract to Rookie Brian Thomas Jr.
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