Jaguars WR Focused Solely on Football Despite Negotiations
· Yahoo Sports
Throughout the offseason, some of the most exciting news coming out of OTAs and training camp is the depth of the Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiving corps, with Brian Thomas Jr., Travis Hunter, and Parker Washington getting a lot of positive attention.
Washington, who is entering a contract year, has been perhaps the most-heavily praised of the bunch, as he has continued to grow a strong connection with starting quarterback Trevor Lawrence.
Visit saltysenoritaaz.com for more information.
On Saturday, Washington was asked about his ongoing contract negotiations, where he assured media that football is his main focus.
"For me it’s just staying focused, keeping the main thing the main thing, and letting my agent and everybody in the front office talk about it," Washington said. "I just want to continue to be a great leader in the receiver room, taking the next steps, and being a great example to the guys."
One thing that has stood out about the former sixth-round selection is his consistency and work ethic, as head coach Liam Coen said Washington is always getting to the facility early for additional work and stretching.
Hunter seconded these remarks at training camp earlier this week.
"[Jakobi Meyers and Parker Washington are always] the first people in the building. Me and BT [Thomas] chasing that," Hunter said. "We want to be the first person in the building, might not be able to beat [Parker]."
Washington's extra work shined through last season, as he burst onto the scene during the Jaguars' run to the AFC South crown.
He recorded 58 catches for 847 yards and five touchdowns, posting a three-game streak of 85 yards or more heading into the playoffs.
Washington looked dynamic in Jacksonville's playoff loss against the Buffalo Bills, catching seven passes for 107 yards and a touchdown - his third in four games.
During a season where Thomas struggled and Hunter was injured, Washington's production was much-needed, as Lawrence leaned on his third-year wideout to produce at a high rate.
Now, the question remains whether Washington will be granted an extension prior to Week 1.
If not, he will play out the final year of his rookie deal, earning an estimated $3.7 million, which is a bargain considering his outlook and potential.
Entering this season, Washington projects as Jacksonville's secondary wideout next to Thomas, but has shown the ability to be a WR1 and Lawrence's go-to target, while giving Jacksonville versatility in where he can line up.
Washington spent time in the slot, X, and outside, while leading the team in yards per route run against man coverage (2.7), showing his prowess in beating defensive backs 1-on-1.