Jaguars WR Parker Washington's confidence growing heading into Year 2

Wide receiver Parker Washington got off to a slow start in 2023 but got playing time toward the end of the season. Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Press Taylor said on Day 2 of mandatory minicamp that he sees a more confident Parker heading into Year 2.

"Parker is definitely playing more confidently," Taylor said when asked about the difference in Washington from last year. "I think he's a lot healthier than he was this time last year when we got him. Things slow down. These guys, they're not worried every time they break the huddle about what I'm doing, where my stance is, how this route changes if they play this now. He's heard it 100 times."

"We give him a play call, we give a route. We move him around. He knows the expectations of that particular player in that particular concept. Now, you see the skill set start to come out. That confidence is a big thing. He'll continue to grow. He was putting the fire last year, was moved around a couple of spots, made some plays. I think that certainly contributes to some confidence from the playmaking himself. But he's continuing to grow," Taylor said.

Washington, a sixth-round pick in last year's draft, had to clear several hurdles to get playing time as a rookie. He was a healthy scratch early in the season and later landed on Injured Reserve. The former Penn State Nittany Lions returned in Week 11 but it wasn't until Week 13 that he caught his first reception, filling in for Christian Kirk when he went down with a core injury.

In the end, Washington caught 16 receptions for 132 yards with two touchdowns. While he mostly lines up in the slot, he did enough to warrant more reps in the offseason. Based on Taylor's comments, it looks like he's making the most of his chances. Here's the Texas native connecting with quarterback Mac Jones on Day 2 of mandatory minicamp.

Jaguars WR Parker Washington is poised for a bigger role in Year 2

As Press Taylor noted, Parker Washington was adjusting to the NFL last year. Having a better understanding of the offense and the things he needs to do will help him have a bigger impact next season.

The Jags carried seven receivers last year. It's uncertain if they'll keep as many in 2024 but Washington should have a favorable chance to make the team. Brian Thomas Jr., Gabe Davis and Christian Kirk, and return specialist Devin Duvernay are all locks. The other three/four spots could be up for grabs. Washington will need to compete with fellow sophomore Elijah Cooks, fourth-year pro Tim Jones, and undrafted free agent Joshua Cephus.

One thing working in Washington's favor is that he's the best slot of the bunch. Most of his snaps in 2023 came playing inside and that's where he'll most likely line up next season. While Kirk is the team's primary slot receiver, Washington should get a few targets every now and then.

Sometimes, players need time to hit their stride. That seems to be the case with Parker Washington, who's ready for a bigger role in Year 2.

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