Liam Coen led the Jacksonville Jaguars to an offensive revitalization last season, helping Trevor Lawrence look like the franchise quarterback he was promised to be as the 2021 NFL Draft's No. 1 pick. Lawrence's top receiver from 2024 didn't exactly ascend alongside his QB.
Brian Thomas Jr., who earned Pro Bowl honors after a dazzling rookie season in 2024, had a disastrous sophomore campaign. He struggled with drops and appeared to lose his confidence, catching only 48 passes for 707 yards and two touchdowns.
While Thomas declined, Parker Washington emerged into a breakout star. The 2023 sixth-round pick finished the season on an absolute tear, commanding 10+ targets in three of the Jaguars' last four games. He consistently got open and became
a valuable safety valve for Lawrence.
So, where do the Jaguars wide receivers stack up from a fantasy football perspective ahead of 2026 drafts? Here's the case for both Thomas and Washington.
Could Brian Thomas Jr. rebound in new role?
Thomas struggled mightily on in-breaking routes last season, seemingly out of a reluctance for the contact the middle of the field is known for. He's best as a field-stretcher, using his speed and 6-foot-4 frame to dominate cornerbacks down the field. With Washington and Jakobi Meyers both capable of playing inside, Thomas can go back to what he does best on the perimeter, and being Lawrence's top deep threat makes him a high-upside fantasy option.
Yes, Parker Washington is the real deal
Washington's emergence is no fluke. He's drawn rave reviews out of training camp, seemingly becoming Lawrence's top target. He's worth taking above ADP in fantasy drafts, and certainly above Thomas, who's worth a flier but cannot be counted on to start. If you can go RB heavy early in drafts while adding Washington as your WR3 or WR4, you'll be in a great spot.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Is Parker Washington or Brian Thomas Jr. the Jaguars WR to target in fantasy football drafts?
