Jaguars excited to 'continue to build around' Lawrence
Jacksonville Jaguars general manager Trent Baalke is optimistic about the team's future after finalizing a long-term deal with quarterback Trevor Lawrence.
"With this five-year extension, the vision we had when we selected Trevor first overall in 2021 has become a reality," Baalke said in a statement Friday. "Our objectives have always been aligned. As an organization, we have consistently messaged the importance of extending our core players, and Trevor is a foundational talent that we will continue to build around in our quest for a championship."
Lawrence's new five-year deal is reportedly worth $275 million. With a $55-million average annual salary, the Jaguars star ties Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow as the highest-paid player in NFL history.
Lawrence will also apparently earn $200 million in guaranteed money.
"I am beyond grateful to be able to continue my career in Jacksonville," Lawrence said. "My family and I love this city - it has become home to us, and this solidifies that even more. We can't thank (team owner Shahid Khan) and everyone involved for their belief in me."
He added: "I know that the best is yet to come, and this is only the beginning. The drive to bring a championship to Duval is bigger than ever. Let's get it done."
Team owner Shad Khan credited Lawrence and Baalke for their determination to iron out an extension.
"To get it done comfortably and amicably ahead of training camp, as with the long-term agreement we reached in April with Josh Allen, is a further statement that the Jacksonville Jaguars are committed to winning now and for many seasons to come," Khan said in a statement.
The No. 1 pick in 2021, Lawrence entered the NFL as one of the best prospects in recent memory. However, the Clemson product has lacked consistency since entering the league, posting a 20-30 record as a starter.
The 24-year-old threw a league-high 17 interceptions and struggled as a rookie on an underachieving Jaguars team coached by Urban Meyer. Lawrence improved significantly in Year 2 to lead Jacksonville to a divisional-round appearance but couldn't replicate that success last season.
Lawrence finished 2023 with 4,016 yards and 21 touchdowns against 14 interceptions, down from a 4,113-25-8 stat line in 2022. His pass completion percentage rate also dropped from 66.3% to 65.6%.
The Jaguars - who have made the playoffs just once since the 2018 season - bolstered Lawrence's supporting cast this offseason, signing wide receiver Gabe Davis and using a first-round pick on wideout Brian Thomas Jr.