Parker Washington's stock continues to soar with must-see TD grab in Jaguars vs. Bucs

Sophomore Parker Washington got lots of praise during training camp. He's validated the hype during the preseason. First, he had a 73-yard kickoff return for the Jacksonville Jaguars in the preseason opener. He's followed it up with a touchdown grab against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The Jaguars weren't able to get anything going in the first offensive drive. But Mac Jones got hot in their second possession and put together a 17-play, 80-yard drive that culminated in a 25-yard touchdown reception to Washington.

Jones went 2-of-4 for 13 yards in the first possession but fared much better in the second. He even kept the ball and ran it for a first down on a fourth-and-1. On a related note, Brian Thomas Jr. was one of the few starters who saw playing time against the Buccaneers. He had a 16-yard reception.

Going back to Washington, he continues to see his stock rise and will make it difficult for the coaching staff to keep him on the sidelines next season. A sixth-round pick in last year's draft, the former Penn State Nittany Lion didn't get much playing time early in 2023. But a core injury to Christian Kirk paved the way for him.

Washington ended up hauling in 16 catches for 132 yards with two touchdowns. Most of that production came when Kirk was unavailable. Looking to build off of his strong finish to 2023, the Texas native worked on his craft during the offseason, which he credits for his improvement in Year 2.

It's worth noting that Kirk didn't suit up for the game and didn't participate in joint practices because he's dealing with a calf injury. Head coach Doug Pederson says it isn't serious and they kept him out as a precaution, though.

The Jaguars have a Swiss Knife Armey in Parker Washington

The Jaguars should be thrilled with the growth Parker Washington has undergone in his second season. Given that Christian Kirk mostly lines up inside, he probably won't have a featured role. That said, his playmaking skills could force the coaching staff to come up with some creative playcalling.

Maybe the Jags could have Kirk line up outside or maybe they could run plays with him and Washington at the same time. Either way, they'll have ample choices. And if the sophomore receiver doesn't get too many snaps on offense, they could also use him to return kickoffs.

His 73-yard return against the Kansas City Chiefs in the preseason opener showed just how dynamic he can be.

Then again, expectations around Washington should be tempered. As noted before, Kirk is the primary slot receiver. On top of that, Brian Thomas Jr., Devin Duvernay, and Gabe Davis are all ahead of him on the depth chart. Add the presence of tight end Evan Engram, and there won't be enough balls to feed everyone.

On the other hand, the Jaguars should be thrilled about the depth they'll enjoy at wide receiver. Ideally, Christian Kirk will stay healthy in 2024, but if he has to miss time, Washington could step in his place and the offense won't probably miss a beat.

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