It has been a season plagued by NFL quarterback injuries, and as the 2023 NFL season progresses, the situation has not improved. As Week 14 kicks off, at least four teams are facing questions surrounding their starting quarterback.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are set to visit the Cleveland Browns, with both teams dealing with uncertainties over their starting quarterback. Trevor Lawrence, the 2021 No. 1 pick for Jacksonville, is pushing to play despite suffering a high ankle sprain in a previous game. The Jaguars have announced that Lawrence will start against the Browns, although his status remains uncertain. The Jaguars are 8-4 in the AFC South and are facing stiff competition from the Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans.
The Cleveland Browns, on the other hand, have Joe Flacco starting again, with Dorian Thompson-Robinson cleared from concussion protocol as the backup. The Browns are second in the AFC North with a 7-5 record.
The New Orleans Saints are also dealing with quarterback issues, as Derek Carr has cleared concussion protocol but is facing other injuries, including rib cartilage fracture and a shoulder sprain. Carr is determined to play against the Carolina Panthers, but if he is unable to do so, Jameis Winston will be the backup option.
In Seattle, Geno Smith’s availability for the Seahawks’ game against the San Francisco 49ers is in question due to a groin injury. With Smith unable to practice, backup Drew Lock is poised to start for the Seahawks. Lock will be supported by newly signed quarterback Sean Mannion, as the Seahawks are aiming to turn around their season sitting at 6-6.
As Sunday’s slate of Week 14 games approaches, the quarterback situations for these teams are still up in the air, and the outcome of their games will undoubtedly be impacted by the decisions surrounding their starting quarterbacks.