Dabo Swinney Sends Trevor Lawrence Message After Recent Criticism
Appearing on Jacksonville's XL Primetime radio show, Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney offered his full-throated support for the former No. 1 overall pick, defending Lawrence's NFL journey while pointing to the track record that made him a generational prospect in the first place.
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'He wins,' Swinney said. 'If you know anything about Trevor Lawrence, just go back and look at his career. He's always won — forever.'
Swinney, who coached Lawrence through a near-flawless college career that included a national championship as a freshman and three College Football Playoff appearances, isn't blind to the ups and downs his former quarterback has faced in Jacksonville. But he's quick to remind critics that Lawrence's résumé still speaks volumes.
'This guy lost maybe one or two games in high school, comes to Clemson and wins 29 straight, goes to back-to-back national championship games, three straight playoff appearances, three straight conference championships. He was second in the Heisman voting. He's just always won.'
Bob Self/Florida Times-Union-USA TODAY NETWOR
NFL Realities and Growing Pains
Since entering the NFL in 2021, Lawrence has experienced both highs and lows. He led the Jaguars to a surprise AFC South title in 2022 and a playoff comeback win over the Chargers, but he also endured a rocky 2024 campaign that saw Jacksonville finish 4-13 amid injuries and inconsistency.
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Swinney acknowledged those setbacks but also pointed to the challenges of transitioning to professional football — especially in a league where few teams consistently win.
'There's been some challenges that he's had to deal with, and part of that's just being in the NFL,' Swinney said. 'How many undefeated teams have there been in the NFL? It's a different deal.'
Faith in the Future
Lawrence has battled injuries in each of the past two seasons, including a shoulder issue that cost him a chunk of 2024. Despite that, Swinney says Lawrence's character and ability remain unquestioned.
'He's as tough as they come. Incredibly smart, incredibly gifted, and he's got a long future ahead of him. I'm excited to watch it all play out.'
With a new head coach in Liam Coen, an upgraded offensive line, and explosive weapons like Travis Hunter and Brian Thomas Jr. added this offseason, Jacksonville has doubled down on making sure their franchise quarterback has the tools to succeed.
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The pressure is mounting in Duval — but if Dabo Swinney is right, Lawrence's best days may finally be on the horizon.
Related: Dabo Swinney Opens Up About Rare Death Valley Moment
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