JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — As the Jaguars hit the field at Miller Electric Center for the first Organized Team Activity, the Big Cats' offense is the talk of the town with a newly shaped wide receiver core following the losses of Calvin Ridley and Zay Jones. However, the additions of Gabe Davis and first-round draft pick Brian Thomas Jr. have fans buzzing with excitement.
A massive part of this core is finally back on the field, as Christian Kirk said he's feeling good and healthy after missing the final five games of last season.
"Ready to wake some people back up and remind them of the type of player I am," said Kirk. "I feel like the offseason has been forever for me. Injuries are more mentally challenging than anything. It tests your mental, but kind of callus your mind into putting yourself in uncomfortable situations and pushing through."
As the most experienced player in the receiving core at just 27 years old, Kirk is embracing his role as the old-young veteran.
"Biggest part about being a leader is knowing the people that you're leading and knowing how they respond to certain things. Adverse situations. Whether it's coaching or advice. So, just being an open book for them and giving them my experiences that I've had, and giving them all the tools that I can to help them be successful," Kirk said.
Kirk has high praise for rookie Brian Thomas Jr. and believes second-year receiver Parker Washington is poised for a breakout year.
"He's a little leaner. He's fast. He's smart. He has a better understanding of the system and what we're trying to do. He's coming out of his shell a little bit more. Now, he's having a little bit more fun and feels a little bit more comfortable," Kirk said.
Despite the competition within the AFC South division, Kirk likes the build of the Big Cats' receiving core and is confident they will work hard this off-season to complement each other and the offense.