The Jacksonville Jaguars are set to have their starters participate in the upcoming preseason game against the Carolina Panthers on Friday night. Coach Liam Coen announced on Monday that he anticipates quarterback Trevor Lawrence and other key players will see action for a few drives during the game.
This decision marks a change from Coen's earlier stance, where he had indicated that he would not risk his first-team offense and defense in preseason exhibitions. Coen mentioned the limited number of padded practices remaining before the regular season, stating, "You set a schedule, and timing and circumstances, things change and you have to pivot a little bit."
In their preseason opener against New Orleans, the Jaguars did not play any starters but managed to secure a 24-20 victory. However, a series of injuries, particularly affecting the offensive line and linebacker positions, led Coen to cancel full-pad practice on Monday. Notable absences from practice included backup quarterback Nick Mullens and offensive tackle Chuma Edoga.
The Jaguars are scheduled to hold a joint practice in full pads with the Panthers on Wednesday. Coen clarified that no starters would participate in the team's final preseason game against Tampa Bay on August 28, regardless of the outcomes of the practices this week.
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