Will Trevor Lawrence be ready for Week 1? Get the latest on his recovery from shoulder surgery as the Jaguars prepare for their 2025 season opener vs. the Colts.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The Jacksonville Jaguars may be in the quiet period of early July, but the biggest question in Duval is getting louder by the day: will Trevor Lawrence be ready for Week 1? As the team gears up for training camp under new head coach Liam Coen, all eyes are on the franchise quarterback's recovery from offseason shoulder surgery, a process that will define the start of a pivotal 2025 season.
'The amount of throws might be a little lighter to start and work our way up, just until I get really, fully back.' - Trevor Lawrence
Trevor Lawrence himself is feeding the optimism. Speaking to reporters, the quarterback confirmed he's progressing well from the surgery that repaired an AC joint injury in his non-throwing (left) shoulder, an issue that prematurely ended his 2024 campaign. While he expects to be ready for the September 10 season opener against the Colts, the team is taking a cautious approach. Lawrence noted his throwing workload will be managed carefully as camp begins, a smart strategy to ensure he's truly 100% when the games count. For Coach Coen and the new regime, having a healthy Lawrence is non-negotiable for success.
While Lawrence's health dominates headlines, the front office has been busy building a deeper, more competitive roster around him. While star rookie Travis Hunter commands attention, it's the Day 3 draft picks who are generating surprising buzz. Running back Bhayshul Tuten, noted for his speed, is reportedly in a position to earn meaningful reps in a backfield that's still taking shape. He joins fellow late-rounders like Jack Kiser (LB) and Jalen McLeod (LB) who are expected to make their initial mark on special teams. This focus on getting contributions from the entire draft class, not just the top picks, signals a new philosophy focused on roster-wide strength.
The emphasis on depth means training camp will be fierce. Several key players are also on the road to recovery alongside Lawrence. Offensive tackle Cooper Hodges (knee) and linebacker Dennis Gardeck (ACL) are working their way back, with their availability for Week 1 still listed as questionable. On a positive note, receiver Brian Thomas Jr. is fully healthy after a minor shoulder scare in minicamp. As the coaching staff evaluates the roster, even specialized roles are being solidified, with Parker Washington penciled in as the primary return man. It's clear that no job is safe, and every rep in the August heat will matter.
As the calendar turns to July, the narrative for the 2025 Jaguars is one of cautious optimism and intense preparation. The health of Trevor Lawrence remains paramount, but the real story may be the competitive depth being built behind him. With a new coach at the helm and a hungry group of rookies ready to prove their worth, the upcoming training camp promises to be one of the most compelling in recent memory. The countdown to kickoff has officially begun.
