2021 NFL Draft: What does future of Trevor Lawrence hold after positive test?

Clemson QB Trevor Lawrence. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

Has a wrench been thrown into the plans of Trevor Lawrence?

The ongoing pandemic just hit the biggest name in college football and the 2021 NFL Draft. According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo and Ian Rapoport, Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence has tested positive for COVID-19.

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney confirmed the news in a statement Thursday night.

"“Trevor has authorized us this evening to announce that he has tested positive for COVID-19 and is now in isolation. He is doing well with mild symptoms but will not be available for this week’s game against Boston College. While we certainly will miss Trevor, this is an opportunity for other guys to step up and we’re excited about competing against a very good BC team on Saturday. Go Tigers.”"

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Lawrence is out for Clemson’s game on Sunday against Boston College. Freshman DJ Uiagalelei, a five-star recruit and top-ten overall, will likely get the start in place of Lawrence.

Lawrence will not play against Boston College, but Adam Schefter reports Lawrence received his positive test on Wednesday and that counted as day one of his ten-day isolation, meaning he can be available for Clemson’s heavyweight fight against Notre Dame next Saturday.

Lawrence made headlines earlier this week with his comments about seemingly leaving the door open to returning to school in 2021 instead of opting for the NFL Draft in a press conference earlier this week.

"“My mindset has been that I’m gonna move on, but who knows? There’s a lot of things that could happen.”"

Speculation of course began running that perhaps Lawrence could shy away from entering the draft should the New York Jets, currently at 0-7, land the top overall pick in 2021. He’s still very likely to declare, however.

Could there be a chance Lawrence decides to opt out after this news? Perhaps, but Clemson is cruising toward another ACC title and another appearance in the College Football Playoffs. You have to think Lawrence wants to finish the job he fell short of doing last season, winning the National Championship.

Sure, Lawrence hasn’t been perfect this season, even throwing a pick-six against Syracuse. But Clemson is still dominating for the most part and Lawrence doesn’t want to miss another golden opportunity for a national title. However, if Uiagalelei plays well against Boston College, it will be interesting (and perhaps not the worst move in the world), if Clemson lets Lawrence sit against Notre Dame if they feel they need to for the health and safety of both he and the rest of the team.

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Bottom line, we’re hoping for a speedy recovery for Lawrence and can’t wait to see him on the field again. But we want him to take care of himself, first and foremost.

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