As the Jacksonville Jaguars gear up to face the Detroit Lions in Week 11, they are already dealing with a significant absence. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence has been ruled out for the game, but he won’t be the only key player missing from the action. Running back Tank Bigsby, who had been dealing with an injury throughout the week, was also a notable exclusion from the final injury report, making him one of the biggest surprises heading into the matchup.
Bigsby’s Injury Update: A Setback for the Jaguars
Tank Bigsby, the promising rookie running back, was initially hopeful of playing on Sunday. However, after missing two consecutive practice sessions earlier in the week, the Jaguars officially ruled him out for Week 11. Although he was able to practice on Friday as a limited participant, it was clear that Bigsby wasn’t in optimal condition to contribute to the team’s efforts against the Lions.
Head coach Doug Pederson expressed optimism regarding Bigsby’s recovery, but ultimately, the running back wasn’t cleared for action. “Tank’s gonna go today. We’ll see. Optimistic, but today will be a big day for him,” Pederson commented, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the rookie’s availability. With Bigsby sidelined, the Jaguars will turn to Travis Etienne as their RB1, placing more pressure on the second-year back to carry the load.
Injuries to Watch: Key Jaguars Players Still Questionable
While Bigsby and Lawrence’s absences are certain, there are a few other notable players who are still questionable for Week 11. Left guard Ezra Cleveland, who appeared on the injury report as questionable, has been cleared to play and will take the field against the Lions. Additionally, defensive end Josh Hines-Allen and cornerback Tyson Cambell both entered the week with shoulder injuries but are expected to be ready for action on Sunday.
Despite the injuries, Pederson remains confident in his players’ readiness, saying, “Guys that have shown up on the report. This time of year, guys are going to be banged up, but the ones that have shown up have practiced this week should be good for the game.” With most key players expected to play, the Jaguars will look to minimize the impact of these injuries as they face a tough challenge from the Lions.
Rookie Keilan Robinson and Maason Smith’s Uncertain Status
One additional injury-related storyline to follow is the potential return of rookie Keilan Robinson. After starting the season on Injured Reserve, Robinson had his 21-day window to return activated. Though he participated fully in practice, the Jaguars still need to make a roster move to create space for him. Pederson confirmed that while it’s been discussed, the team’s timing remains a challenge. Robinson’s potential return could provide a boost to the Jaguars’ backfield, but his status will depend on the team’s roster decisions.
Meanwhile, defensive tackle Maason Smith, who has missed the last two games due to an ankle injury, is also listed as questionable. Pederson noted that Smith would have an opportunity to play, but the final decision would be made after the day’s practice. “We’ll make the final determination, you know, later today, after practice,” he said, keeping the door open for the defensive lineman’s return.
Lions’ Injury Report and the Impact on the Game
On the opposing side, the Detroit Lions have their own injury concerns. Linebacker Ben Niemann is listed as questionable, while defensive back Ifeatu Melifonwu, cornerback Emmanuel Mosley, tight end Sam Laporta, and defensive tackle Brodick Martin have all been ruled out for the game. These absences could impact the Lions’ defense, which might provide some relief for the Jaguars’ offense as they attempt to find their rhythm despite the absence of Lawrence and Bigsby.
Mac Jones to Start in Place of Lawrence
With Trevor Lawrence sidelined, backup quarterback Mac Jones will make his second consecutive start for the Jaguars. Pederson expressed confidence in Jones, despite his struggles in the Week 10 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. “Same Mac, a lot of confidence. He really embraced this week, this challenge, what he’s going to face Sunday,” Pederson said, praising Jones’ leadership and preparation. Jones will need to improve upon his performance from last week, where he threw two interceptions and completed only 14 of 22 passes for 115 yards, if the Jaguars are to have any chance of pulling off an upset against the Lions.
Conclusion: Jaguars Look to Stay Competitive
Despite facing a string of injuries to key players, the Jaguars’ chances in Week 11 rest on their ability to manage the absences of Lawrence and Bigsby while maximizing the contributions of their remaining healthy stars. While the team will undoubtedly miss Bigsby’s services in the backfield, the return of key defensive players and the leadership of Mac Jones could help them stay competitive against a tough Lions team. With the final injury report in hand, the Jaguars will be hoping that their banged-up roster can rise to the occasion and keep their season alive.
