Fans get COVID-19 shots at Jaguars scrimmage

More than 50 people registered to get vaccinated, but walk-ups were taken, too

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jaguars fans gave No. 1 overall draft pick Trevor Lawrence a warm welcome on Sunday as the quarterback ran onto TIAA Bank Field in front of fans for the first time.

The public also got a glimpse of new head coach Urban Meyer and the new-look Jaguars during a scrimmage.

But fans could do more than watch football. They could get vaccinated against COVID-19.

“I think it’s to the point that we cannot ignore the virus,” said 20-year-old Licia Wagner, who got the vaccine. “I think it’s now my responsibility.”

“I have to think about other people and not just myself,” said longtime Jaguars fan Brian Davis.

That’s why Davis was first in line Sunday morning to get a shot, especially after a push from his family.

“They’ve been twisting my arm for weeks and they were getting worried because everybody’s pretty much vaccinated in my family but myself,” he said. “I just came on down to get out of the way.”

Those interested in getting the vaccine were able to come to the “Blue for You” Mobile Unit with Florida Blue.

More than 50 people registered to get vaccinated, but walk-ups were taken, too.

Nancy Freeman brought her son Derek to get vaccinated from Palm Coast. Derek is 19 years old and has cerebral palsy.

“I was a little worried about him, but now I realize it’s very important for him to get the vaccine,” Freeman said.

Nurses from Florida Blue and Walgreens pharmacists administered the first dose of the two-shot Pfizer vaccine to those 12 years old and up.

“I can see this new variant of COVID, and it’s affecting kids a lot more,” said 12-year-old Myron Cummings, who got his first dose. “[The variant is] getting [more kids] on ventilators and all that.”

Cummings and dozens of others who rolled up their sleeves had one last message before watching the action on the field.

“Just get it,” Cummings said. “It helps you a lot and can save your life maybe.”

COVID-19 shots were available at Sunday's Jaguars scrimmage. (WJXT)

About the Author: