JACKSONVILLE – He has worked, persevered and performed.
Parker Washington's path to NFL success wasn't easy, but make no mistake: He never wavered, and in three seasons has reached a remarkable level of success.
"It's been a great journey," he said.
Washington, the Jaguars' third-year wide receiver, joined senior writer John Oehser for this Week 6 2025 O-Zone Podcast. He discussed multiple topics, including the organizational change that has led to a 4-1 start – the Jaguars' best since 2007.
"The energy the head coach (Liam Coen) brings is unreal," Washington said. "This is the first time I see guys from top to bottom are just buying in. Regardless of if they don't feel their best, or some feel some type of way, guys are putting their best foot forward.
"It has been cool to see that culture being built and it's paying off for us. Guys are showing love and attacking each day. Each day we continue to grow and continue to build.
"It fun to be a part of. We just have to keep working."
Washington, too, discussed his mindset this past offseason when the Jaguars added to a a wide receiver room by selecting Travis Hunter No. 2 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft and signing veteran Dyami Brown as an unrestricted free agent.
Washington responded with perhaps the best offseason and preseason of any receiver, emerging as a key offensive player through five games.
"That's been the best part for me, continuing to put my best foot forward and have some fun – and embrace whatever role I have," Washington said.
Washington, a sixth-round selection by the Jaguars in the 2023 NFL Draft, entered the NFL recovering from ankle surgery. He then sustained a knee injury on his first regular-season play – a punt return – played just nine games as a rookie, and is now playing for a second head coach/general manager/offensive coordinator in three seasons.
"For me, naturally, I've always been great at staying in the moment," Washington said. "Coming in, I had surgery, so I knew it was going to be more of a marathon instead of just a sprint. That mindset and that perspective helped me understand, 'There are going to be some tough days and there are going to be some battle-tested moments.'
"It has been cool to see the growth, more so mentally. I would have told you from Day One, 'I can get out there and make plays.' It has been a mental growth for me. I'm just grateful to have these moments because it has built me into a better man and better person.
"That's just going to pay dividends in the long run."
To listen to the entire O-Zone Podcast with Washington, tune-in below. For more interviews on the O-Zone Podcast, click HERE.
