K-State defender Jacob Parrish confident in his NFL Draft prospects after Senior Bowl
Jacob Parrish knew he was ready to play professional football when he decided to forgo his final season of college eligibility at Kansas State and declare for the NFL Draft.
His confidence has only grown since then.
Parrish, who was a standout defensive back for the Wildcats over the past three years, thinks his NFL stock is on the rise after the way he played at the Senior Bowl. The Olathe North High School product more than held his own against other draft hopefuls in Mobile, Alabama.
He stood out as a defender, delivering highlight moments in the form of both pass breakups and tackles.
“I have got NFL speed and I have got good instincts,” Parrish said in a phone interview. “I can help any team that needs me to play man coverage or make big hits. I feel like I have the ability to go make plays at the next level.”
Much was expected from Parrish at the Senior Bowl after the way he played for K-State football coach Chris Klieman. He made 108 tackles, defended 19 passes and came up with five interceptions during his time with the Wildcats. But he was at his best as a junior when he became the team’s best corner.
He took advantage of an opportunity to showcase his development in front of pro scouts at the Senior Bowl.
“I think I showed them how good I am in man coverage,” Parrish said. “I put a lot of good stuff on tape. I was always in the right spot. I was also proud of my ability to tackle. I have the mindset to come down and hit you, even if you are a bigger player.”
Parrish is now training at a fitness facility in Dallas.
He will be there until he departs for the NFL Scouting Combine later this month in Indianapolis. His job, at the moment, is to get in the best shape of his life so he can put up big numbers on the 40-yard dash and other agility/strength stations.
Parrish ran faster than 22 miles per hour while he was in Manhattan. He was also listed at 5-foot-10 and 196 pounds when he played for the Wildcats. He hopes to run faster and show off a more chiseled look at the combine.
“I am at a good weight right now,” Parrish said. “But I am trying to lose a little bit of fat and put on some muscle.”
If things go well in Indianapolis, his physical tests will be complete. There will be no need for him to participate at the Big 12’s senior day showcase. His hope is to turn his attention to team interviews next month and beyond.
Parrish has already chatted with scouts from all 32 NFL teams, but the questions will become more intense as he gets further along in the process and starts to speak with coaches and general managers.
Experts told him he could be a middle-round pick when he decided to leave K-State. But he is beginning to aim higher.
“My goal right now is the second round,” Parrish said. “I really think I can make that happen.”
Editor’s note: This is the first in a series of stories that will monitor former Olathe North and K-State defensive back Jacob Parrish as he navigates the NFL Draft process.
This story was originally published February 12, 2025 at 1:48 PM with the headline "K-State defender Jacob Parrish confident in his NFL Draft prospects after Senior Bowl."