When the Jacksonville Jaguars traded Christian Kirk to the Houston Texans early in the offseason, Parker Washington seemed like an obvious replacement in the slot. After all, he had shown potential each of the past two years. Fast forward to December, and Washington has exceeded expectations.
It didn't matter that the Jags traded up to select two-way star Travis Hunter in the slot, or that Brian Thomas Jr. was still around; Washington has been the team's most productive receiver on the Jags this season. His electrifying performance in the 23-17 win over the Indianapolis Colts was just the latest in a string of strong games.
Trevor Lawrence hits Parker Washington, and Washington keeps rolling after the catch to set up first and goal!
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) December 28, 2025
📺: FOX pic.twitter.com/9kiCZpNjMB
Parker Washington calls his connection with Trevor Lawrence special
Just one week after hauling in six receptions for 145 yards and a touchdown, Washington once again crossed the 100-yard mark, racking up eight catches for 115 yards. Following the game, the third-year receiver talked to NFL reporter Stacey Dale and talked about his connection with Trevor Lawrence, noting that the two have become so close because of the time they spent together dating back to his rookie campaign in 2023.
It's just been special," Washington told Dale. "Because the best part about it is, since I've been came to the Jaguars my rookie year, it just been getting better and better between me and him, but just got other guys around us, just we became closer, watching more film together, getting more walkthroughs, and that off the field really helpful when it comes to these game moments, and it's been big time."
For the season, Washington has caught 45 passes for 645 yards with four touchdowns, all of them career bests. Later in his exchange with Dale, he talked about the Jags being in control of their destiny entering the season finale.
"Just continue to attack our process, only focus within and continue to have fun. And it's been fun to continue to build the chemistry, especially on the offensive side, but as a team, it's just been special. And Liam [Coen] was saying all week, like, how special this team can be, and how special we are, and we're just trying to continue to work," Dale said.
The Jaguars can win the AFC South in Week 17 with a win over the Tennessee Titans. Similarly, they can clinch the No. 1 seed in the conference if they win and both the New England Patriots and the Denver Broncos lose.
Related: Liam Coen's historic feat with the Jags sents shockwaves across the NFL
Parker Washington has developed into a key contributor for the Jaguars
His first two seasons, Parker Washington mostly lined up in the slot, and mainly when Christian Kirk got hurt. But a new regime took over after 2024, and he's made the most of his chances this season. Not only has he seen extended playing time in the boundaries but has also been one of Trevor Lawrence's most trusted targets.
As noted before, Washington is thriving in spite of the team's surplus at receiver. In fact, his presence, along with the fact that Jakobi Meyers just inked a three-year deal worth $60 million, could put Brian Thomas Jr.'s future in doubt or even convince the Jags to stick Travis Hunter at corner full-time.
Then again, it may be a tad too premature to talk about roster moves in the offseason. For the time being, the Jaguars are winning, and Parker Washington is a huge reason why.