Washington of the Jaguars explodes on first kickoff return under new rule

The NFL's main goal with its new kickoff rules was to put fun back into the game, limit touchbacks, and reinvigorate returns.

If the Jaguars' first play attempt is any indication, mission accomplished.

On Jacksonville's first kickoff return of the 2024 preseason, wide receiver Parker Washington stood right behind running back Tank Bigsby, retrieved the ball, weaved between Kansas City's defenders and slid down the field for a massive recovery.

Washington managed the kickback 73 yards, which according to NFL GSIS was the longest kickoff return of the preseason and under the new rules.

Watch Washington's return below.

“I am Parker Washington.” – Parker Washington@CPW11_ | #KCvsJAX on CBS pic.twitter.com/tzjVrqujvG

—Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) 10 August 2024

Jacksonville's offense quickly capitalized on Washington's big lead. Four plays later, quarterback Trevor Lawrence threw a seven-yard touchdown pass to running back Travis Etienne Jr.

Washington scored a 13-yard gain on a Kansas City punt, setting up the Jaguars' second offensive drive shortly thereafter.

Lawrence and the Jaguars coaching staff have had high praise for Washington, Jacksonville's 2023 sixth-round draft pick, during his second offseason with the club. He recently entered the NFL after an ankle injury suffered at Penn State.

“Parker Washington has looked great. I think we've talked about this before, but from last year to this year his play has improved so much,” Lawrence said Thursday.

“I mentioned that he started off a bit injured last time and it was difficult for him to get going because he had to go straight to training camp and not [offseason team activities] to settle in. It was cool to see him this year, see his transformation and honestly how good he looks. I was really impressed.”

Washington caught 16 passes for 132 yards and two touchdowns in his rookie season with the Jaguars.