Trevor Lawrence is ready.
Those are the words of the man himself; the assumed No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft has been the subject of all sorts of rumors regarding his candidacy for that top pick in recent weeks, with some reports even suggesting that he might pull an “Eli Manning” and force himself to another team rather than play for the Jets, who currently hold the No. 1 pick.
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While Lawrence hasn’t really tipped his hand on his NFL plans in recent months, it’s widely expected that he’ll declare for the NFL Draft for a multitude of reasons. Primarily, considering that he’s a senior, graduating this month, and the far-and-away best prospect of next year’s draft.
On the “Dan Patrick Show,” Patrick asked Lawrence whether he’s paid attention to the situation unfolding in New York, and Lawrence offered a small glimpse into his NFL future.
“I think I’m ready,” Lawrence said. “I think my journey at Clemson — I’ve learned a lot, I’ve grown up a lot these few years and I’m really just ready to take on whatever challenge it is, and just have that opportunity. …
“Honestly, I know some of this stuff I say sounds cliché, but just to have the opportunity to go somewhere, help someone rebuild if that what it is, or whatever, and just win. That’s something I love doing, that’s what I’m best at, is winning. Regardless of stats, that’s what I love. Just to have that chance. Obviously, some places it might be more of a challenge than others, but I think I’m up for it.”
Lawrence once again didn’t completely close the door on a Clemson return, but said it was “likely” that these next few games in a Tigers uniform will be his last.
Lawrence’s invite-all-challenges attitude is a good sign for Jets fans who believe the team will land the No. 1 overall pick and select him. The team is making a beeline for an 0-16 season right now, but with an abundance of cap space, (presumably) a new head coach, premium draft picks and a well-respected general manager, New York makes for as viable a landing spot as any team in the top five of next year’s draft.
The Jets don’t have that pick locked up just yet, though, with Jacksonville sitting behind them with just a sole win. Should both teams finish the season with a victory, then the Jaguars will end up with the No. 1 overall pick based on strength of schedule.
By his own admission, Lawrence hasn’t seen a whole lot of Jets football in 2020. That could change in just a few months.