There is a belief that Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence could be the next NFL passer to secure a significant extension. Jacksonville is in agreement with this view as talks with Lawrence are progressing. ESPN’s Michael DiRocco suggests that when Lawrence does sign an extension, it will resemble that of Lions quarterback Jared Goff in many aspects.

Insights from NFL front office executives outside of Jacksonville indicate that Lawrence’s average annual salary is expected to slightly surpass Goff’s $53 million per year. The deal is projected to follow Goff’s structure, spanning four years with a $73 million signing bonus spread over five years. Like most long-term contracts, the deal will guarantee lower-paid salaries in the initial years and incentivize future negotiations as salaries increase significantly in Year 3 of the contract.

According to an executive, Lawrence has contributed to the rising value of quarterback contracts but has not yet exceeded Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow’s league-leading average annual value of $55 million.

Here are some other rumors from the AFC South:

• Texans running back Dameon Pierce had a strong rookie season in 2022 but struggled during his second year. After losing his starting job to veteran free agent Devin Singletary, Pierce will now compete with another veteran free agent addition, Joe Mixon, for the starting role in 2024. Despite being the RB2, head coach DeMeco Ryans plans to utilize Pierce alongside Mixon as a one-two punch next season.
• The Texans acquired Rams wide receiver Ben Skowronek in a trade, adding to their receiving corps. Skowronek brings size and special teams skills, which could help him secure a roster spot for the upcoming season.