Trevor Lawrence Responds To Criticism

Former Clemson star Trevor Lawrence made headlines earlier this week when he sat down and told Sports Illustrated that he is passionate about the game of football but doesn't have a chip on his shoulder.

“It’s hard to explain that because I want people to know that I’m passionate about what I do and it’s really important to me,” he said in an interview with SI’s Michael Rosenberg. “But, I don’t have this huge chip on my shoulder, that everyone’s out to get me and I’m trying to prove everybody wrong. I just don’t have that. I can’t manufacture that and I don’t want to.”

Fans and analysts criticized him for not taking the game seriously enough and said those comments represent the quarterback wasn't being competitive enough, MSN Sports reports.

Lawrence tweeted on Saturday that people are. misreading his sentiment.

"I am internally motivated - I love football as much or more than anyone," he said. "It is a HUGE priority in my life, obviously. I am driven to be the best I can be, and to maximize my potential. And to WIN."

Lawrence said in a second tweet that football doesn’t define him as a person, and he doesn't need the game to make him feel "worthy."

“That being said, I am secure in who I am, and what I believe,” he said. “I don’t need football to make me feel worthy as a person. I purely love the game and everything that comes with it. The work, the team, the ups and downs.”

Lawrence heard the critics and wanted to clear the air, it seems. Clemson football reaffirmed his statements with a gif that says, "All in."

The Jacksonville Jaguars are expected to call his name with the first pick on April 29.