The Jaguars would start quarterback Mac Jones, a former Patriots first-round pick, if Lawrence doesn’t play. Jones’ 382 passing yards in a Thanksgiving Day loss to the Vikings in 2022, when former coordinator Ed Donatell ran the defense, remains Jones’ career high in 43 career starts.
Jaguars guard Ezra Cleveland, a former Vikings starter, remained sidelined because of an ankle injury. Jacksonville’s offense regained starting guard Brandon Scherff (knee) on limited reps.
Tight end T.J. Hockenson had three catches for 27 yards during a limited role in his season debut last week. Coaches limited his snap count against the Colts, but Hockenson said he expects his playing time to increase this week and next. Tight end Josh Oliver led the position in playing time and had a season-high five catches for 58 yards and a touchdown against Indianapolis.
“Haven’t got hit in obviously nine to 10 months,” Hockenson said, “so to go out there and kind of take that first lick, have the body feel it, pop back up, go back to the huddle and do it again was really good for me. It’s just going to continue to get better each week, and I’m excited to continue to go out there and play.”
John Parker Romo signed this week to replace injured Will Reichard as Vikings kicker. But Romo, who will make his NFL debut Sunday, isn’t guaranteed a spot, and the Giants released former Vikings kicker Greg Joseph on Thursday. Joseph kicked in 52 games for the Vikings over three seasons from 2021-23.
