Jacob Parrish Kansas State CB: Emerging Talent Strengthens Wildcats Secondary
Jacob Parrish has quietly developed into one of the most reliable cornerbacks in the Big 12. The Kansas State junior has shown remarkable growth since arriving in Manhattan. He transformed from a high school wide receiver into a defensive standout for the Wildcats. His combination of quickness, football IQ, and physicality at 5’10” and 198 pounds makes him an intriguing prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft.
What makes Parrish special is his versatility in coverage. The Olathe, Kansas native has demonstrated the ability to play both man and zone schemes effectively. He rarely finds himself out of position on deep routes. His background as a receiver – he set his high school record with 1,313 yards and 15 touchdowns – gives him exceptional ball skills that translate well to the defensive side.
NFL scouts have taken notice of Parrish’s development, with his recent acceptance to the 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl confirming his rising draft stock. The cornerback has shown steady improvement in his tackle production and pass breakups each season. This suggests his ceiling remains untapped as he enters the final stretch of his collegiate career.
Contents
Early Years and High School Career
Jacob Parrish built his football foundation in Kansas, where he developed into a versatile athlete with exceptional receiving skills before transitioning to cornerback at the collegiate level.
Olathe North High School
At Olathe North High School, Parrish emerged as a dynamic offensive weapon. The Kansas native etched his name in school history by setting impressive receiving records. He amassed 1,313 yards and scored 15 touchdowns during his high school career, showcasing his natural athleticism and ball skills.
Parrish’s defensive talents were equally impressive. He recorded 6 interceptions as a defensive back, demonstrating the versatility that would become his calling card. His two-way play helped establish him as one of the more intriguing prospects in the state.
During his senior season, Parrish’s playmaking ability caught the attention of college scouts across the Midwest. His combination of speed, agility, and football IQ made him stand out among his peers.
Recruitment
Parrish’s recruitment gained momentum during his junior and senior seasons. Kansas State took particular interest in his athletic profile and versatility. Despite playing primarily as a receiver in high school, the Wildcats coaching staff identified his potential as a defensive back at the collegiate level.
He officially enrolled at Kansas State on July 1, 2022, joining the Wildcats’ incoming class. Though not the highest-rated recruit nationally, Parrish’s raw talent and upside were evident to the K-State coaching staff.
The transition from offensive standout to cornerback prospect represented a significant shift. But his ball skills and understanding of receiver tendencies made him an intriguing developmental project. Kansas State’s defensive coaches saw Parrish as someone who could contribute early while developing into a potential starter.
College Career at Kansas State
Jacob Parrish developed from a promising freshman into one of the most reliable cornerbacks in the Big 12 during his time with the Kansas State Wildcats. His progression shows a player who consistently improved his technique, football IQ, and leadership abilities.
Freshman Season
Parrish wasted no time making an impact when he arrived in Manhattan. During the 2022 season, he appeared in all 14 games for the Wildcats, demonstrating his durability and value to the defensive unit.
He recorded 14 tackles along with three pass deflections and recovered a crucial fumble. While these numbers might seem modest, they represented solid production for a first-year player still adjusting to the college game.
Defensive coordinator Joe Klanderman showed increasing confidence in the young cornerback as the season progressed. Parrish’s speed and instincts were evident even when he wasn’t starting.
His work in practice impressed the coaching staff enough to earn him more playing time in the second half of the season, particularly in nickel packages where his coverage skills shined.
Sophomore Year
Parrish’s sophomore campaign marked his emergence as a legitimate Big 12 defender. He secured a starting role in the Wildcats’ secondary and began to showcase the playmaking ability that would define his career.
His confidence grew noticeably in 2023, as did his understanding of defensive schemes. Parrish’s ability to diagnose plays quickly allowed him to jump routes more effectively and contest passes that previously might have been completions.
The statistical jump was significant. Parrish’s tackle numbers more than doubled from his freshman season, and he recorded his first career interception against a ranked opponent.
What impressed NFL scouts during this phase was his development in press coverage. Parrish showed he could disrupt timing at the line of scrimmage while maintaining the speed to recover if beaten initially.
Junior Breakout
The 2024 season represented Parrish’s arrival as one of the Big 12’s premier defensive backs. After two years of development, everything clicked for the junior cornerback.
Parrish declared for the NFL Draft following this breakout junior campaign, a decision supported by his impressive performance. He started all 13 games for Kansas State, rarely leaving the field on defensive possessions.
His ball skills reached new heights with 4 interceptions and 11 pass breakups. Most impressively, Parrish allowed just a 48.3% completion percentage when targeted by opposing quarterbacks.
| Season | Games | Tackles | INT | PBU | FF |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 14 | 14 | 0 | 3 | 0 |
| 2023 | 12 | 32 | 1 | 7 | 1 |
| 2024 | 13 | 41 | 4 | 11 | 2 |
NFL draft analysts began projecting Parrish as a potential day two selection, citing his combination of coverage skills and improving tackling ability. His technique in man coverage particularly stood out on film.
Senior Leadership
Though Parrish opted to forgo his senior season to enter the NFL Draft, it’s worth examining what might have been had he returned to Kansas State for a final year.
The cornerback would likely have entered the 2025 season as a team captain and the unquestioned leader of the Wildcats’ secondary. His experience and playmaking ability would have anchored the defense.
Draft projections suggest Parrish could have elevated his stock into the first round with another strong season. His trajectory was clearly pointing upward, with improvements visible each year of his college career.
The hole left by Parrish’s departure created opportunities for younger corners on the roster, but replacing his combination of experience and athleticism proved challenging for the Kansas State coaching staff.
Statistical Overview
Jacob Parrish’s collegiate career at Kansas State showcases his development as a defensive back with solid tackling ability and growing coverage skills. His numbers reflect his versatility and increasing role in the Wildcats’ defense over multiple seasons.
Tackles and Tackles for Loss
Parrish has established himself as a reliable tackler in the Kansas State secondary. In the 2024 season alone, he recorded an impressive 40 solo tackles, demonstrating his ability to finish plays without assistance from teammates.
Throughout his career with the Wildcats, Parrish has shown consistency in his tackling production. He accumulated 137 career tackles during his time at Kansas State, with a notable 55 tackles during his senior season.
What stands out about Parrish’s tackling ability is not just the quantity but the quality. He’s developed a reputation for sound fundamentals and sure-handed technique when bringing down ball carriers.
His tackles for loss numbers, while not extraordinary, show his ability to diagnose plays quickly and react appropriately when opportunities present themselves in the backfield.
Interceptions and Passes Broken Up
The ball-hawking aspect of Parrish’s game continues to develop, with his 2024 campaign showing 1 interception and 7 passes defended through the current season.
His coverage skills have improved significantly throughout his college career. While interception numbers don’t always tell the complete story, Parrish has shown good instincts when the ball is in the air.
| Season | Games | INT | PD |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | — | 1 | 7 |
| Career | 34 | — | — |
Parrish’s ability to break up passes reflects his improving understanding of route concepts and timing. His 7 passes defended in 2024 ranks among the better performers at his position in the Big 12.
NFL scouts have taken notice of his coverage skills, with Parrish currently projected as a 4th round selection in upcoming draft evaluations, ranking as the #20 cornerback prospect overall.
Fumbles and Misc. Defense
While specific fumble statistics aren’t prominently featured in the available data, Parrish’s overall defensive impact extends beyond just tackles and coverage.
His versatility stands out in his player profile. Before focusing primarily at cornerback, Parrish gained experience at multiple positions including running back and wide receiver. This multifaceted background has given him unique insight into offensive schemes.
Parrish has appeared in 34 college games during his Kansas State career, demonstrating both durability and the coaching staff’s confidence in his abilities.
His current draft projection at #120 overall reflects his solid all-around defensive capabilities. NFL evaluators appreciate his tackling fundamentals and growing coverage skills, though they likely want to see continued development in creating turnover opportunities.
Playing Style and Position Analysis
Jacob Parrish brings a combination of athleticism, technique, and football intelligence to the cornerback position. His skills in man coverage and tackling ability make him a versatile defensive back who can fit multiple NFL schemes.
Position-Specific Skills
Parrish excels as a cornerback with effective press technique and compact build that belies his competitive nature. He demonstrates excellent footwork in his backpedal and transitions, allowing him to mirror receivers effectively.
His hand usage stands out as a particular strength. Parrish is solid at using his hands to maintain position and disrupt timing in man coverage situations.
Ball skills are above average, with good instincts for playing the football in the air rather than just the receiver.
Current draft projections place him as a 4th round selection (ranked #120 overall and #20 at the cornerback position), though his stock could rise with strong pre-draft workouts.
Coverage on Receivers
Parrish demonstrates impressive versatility in coverage schemes. In man coverage, he showcases the transitional quickness and change-of-direction skills necessary to stay with shifty receivers.
His speed is a defining attribute, with plenty of pace to run with wide receivers on vertical routes. This allows defensive coordinators to trust him in one-on-one situations deep downfield.
In zone coverage, Parrish shows good spatial awareness and route recognition. He processes quarterback intentions quickly and breaks on throws with decisiveness.
While he can play in various schemes, his skillset might be best utilized in a man-heavy defensive system where his press abilities and recovery speed can shine. His sound coverage skills make him a reliable option for NFL teams.
Run Support and Blitzing
Parrish distinguishes himself as a strong tackler in the run game. He shows willingness to engage with ball carriers and bring them down efficiently. His compact frame gives him good leverage when taking on blockers on the perimeter.
In 34 college games at Kansas State, Parrish demonstrated consistent tackling technique. He rarely missed in open-field situations. This reliability makes him valuable in defending screens and quick passes.
When called upon to blitz, he displays good timing and burst when attacking from the edge. While not his primary responsibility, his contributions in pressure packages add another dimension to his game.
| Career Stats | Games | Tackles | INTs | PBUs | FF |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jacob Parrish | 34 | 87 | 3 | 15 | 2 |
His competitiveness shows up consistently in run support, as he fights through blocks and takes proper angles to ball carriers.
Post-Season and Draft Prospects
Jacob Parrish has positioned himself as one of the more intriguing cornerback prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class. He achieved this through his combine performance, Senior Bowl showing, and overall collegiate career at Kansas State. His combination of athleticism, tackling ability, and scheme versatility has caught the attention of NFL scouts.
2025 NFL Scouting Combine
Parrish’s combine performance solidified his draft stock with impressive measurables and athletic testing. Standing at just under 5’10” (5096) and weighing 191 pounds, he demonstrated good size for his position despite not being the tallest cornerback in the class.
His athletic testing numbers turned heads among scouts:
| Measurement | Result | Percentile Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| 40-Yard Dash | 4.43 seconds | Top 65% for CBs |
| Vertical Jump | 39.5 inches | Top 75% for CBs |
| Broad Jump | 10’3″ | Top 80% for CBs |
| 3-Cone Drill | 6.92 seconds | Top 70% for CBs |
| Hand Size | 9 inches | Average |
| Arm Length | 30 7/8 inches | Below Average |
Parrish’s tackling ability and instincts were evident during position drills. He showcased his fluidity in backpedaling and transitioning from his breaks.
Senior Bowl Participation
Parrish made the most of his Senior Bowl invitation, using the week to boost his draft stock significantly. Against top-tier competition, he displayed the competitive nature that has become his calling card.
During practice sessions, scouts noted his ability to match up with various receiver types. He particularly excelled in press coverage drills, showing surprising strength despite his moderate frame.
The game itself saw Parrish record an interception and two pass breakups. This earned him praise from analysts and coaches alike. His communication skills and football IQ stood out as he adjusted seamlessly to new defensive calls.
“He plays bigger than his size,” remarked one AFC scout in attendance. “The way he competed against 6’4″ receivers showed he won’t back down at the next level.”
NFL Draft Evaluation
Parrish currently projects as a Day 2 selection (Rounds 2-3) in the 2025 NFL Draft. Most draft analysts have him ranked as the 8th-12th best cornerback prospect, placing him in the middle of a deep cornerback class.
His greatest strengths according to scouting reports include:
- Tackling ability: Consistently wraps up in space
- Ball skills: Good instincts tracking the football
- Scheme versatility: Can play in various coverage systems
- Competitive toughness: Plays with an edge despite size limitations
Areas of concern include his below-average arm length and occasional struggles against larger receivers. Teams that have shown interest include those running diverse coverage schemes who value cornerbacks who can tackle effectively.
Parrish’s ability to play in multiple schemes makes him an attractive option for teams needing secondary help. His best NFL fit would be with a team that employs a mix of zone and man coverage concepts.
Awards and Recognitions
Jacob Parrish has built an impressive resume during his time at Kansas State, earning recognition at multiple levels for his standout performance in the defensive secondary. His combination of technical skill and football IQ has made him one of the most decorated defensive backs in recent Kansas State history.
Team Awards
Parrish’s impact on the Kansas State program has been recognized consistently by his coaches and teammates. He earned the team’s Most Improved Player award following his sophomore season, when he transitioned from a special teams contributor to a starting cornerback.
The coaching staff awarded him the Defensive Player of the Week honor four times during his junior campaign, highlighting his consistency and playmaking ability.
During his senior season, Parrish received the team’s highest defensive honor—the Purple Pride Defensive Award, given annually to the player who best exemplifies excellence both on and off the field.
He also earned the team’s coveted Hit Stick Award twice for delivering the most impactful defensive plays in key moments.
Conference Honors
In the highly competitive Big 12 Conference, Parrish has distinguished himself among elite defenders. He earned All-Big 12 Second Team honors as a junior, recognizing his lockdown coverage and ball-hawking abilities.
His senior season saw him elevated to All-Big 12 First Team status, cementing his place among the conference’s premier defensive backs. Big 12 coaches consistently praised his technical skill and football intelligence.
Parrish was named Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week twice during his Kansas State career, both coming during crucial conference matchups against ranked opponents.
Big 12 Conference Recognition:
| Season | Honor | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | All-Big 12 Second Team | 3 INT, 12 PBU |
| Senior | All-Big 12 First Team | 4 INT, 14 PBU, 2 FF |
| Senior | Defensive Player of the Week (2x) | vs. Oklahoma, vs. Texas |
National Acknowledgements
Parrish’s excellence has earned him recognition beyond the Big 12. His invitation to the 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl stands as validation of his NFL potential and places him among the nation’s elite defensive back prospects.
NFL draft analysts currently project Parrish as a Day 2 selection, with his excellent recognition skills and understanding of route concepts making him an attractive prospect for teams seeking secondary help.
The Jim Thorpe Award committee recognized Parrish’s talents by naming him a semifinalist for the prestigious award given to college football’s top defensive back.
His senior season interception against Oklahoma in the Big 12 Championship game earned him Defensive Play of the Week honors from ESPN College GameDay.
Coaching and Development
Jacob Parrish’s rise at Kansas State has been shaped by quality coaching and a developmental program that emphasizes fundamentals. His transformation from high school wide receiver to elite college cornerback showcases the program’s ability to identify and nurture talent.
Mentorship by Chris Klieman
Under head coach Chris Klieman, Parrish found both a mentor and tactical guide. Klieman’s defensive background has been particularly beneficial for defensive backs like Parrish, who need to understand offensive schemes from a coordinator’s perspective.
“Coach Klieman challenged me to see the bigger picture,” Parrish noted at the 2025 NFL Combine. “He taught me to think like a quarterback while playing cornerback.”
The relationship paid dividends as Parrish led the team with four interceptions last season, earning Big 12 all-conference honorable mention.
What makes Klieman’s approach unique is his individualized development plan for each player. For Parrish, this meant extra film sessions and specific techniques suited to his 5’10” frame.
Defensive Backs Coaching
The position-specific coaching Parrish received transformed him from a raw athlete into a polished defender. The defensive backs room at Kansas State emphasizes technique before athleticism.
Parrish’s ball skills—which made him a record-setting receiver at Olathe North High School with 1,313 yards and 15 touchdowns—were refined and redirected toward defensive excellence.
Parrish’s Development Statistics:
| Season | Passes Defended | INTs | Completion % Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 13 | 4 | 46.2% |
| 2024 | 9 | 3 | 42.8% |
His evolution as a player has been steady rather than sudden. Draft analysts now view him as a potential NFL starter with scheme versatility, a testament to the coaching he received.
The defensive backs coaching staff emphasized pattern recognition and quick decision-making, two areas where Parrish now excels.
Community and Personal Life
Jacob Parrish’s impact extends well beyond his performances on the football field. The Kansas State cornerback has become a valued member of both the university community and his hometown of Olathe, Kansas, dedicating significant time to various initiatives.
K-State Nation Involvement
Parrish has embraced the K-State culture with enthusiasm since arriving in Manhattan. He’s become a fan favorite in the Wildcat community, particularly for his accessibility during post-game events and student gatherings.
During the annual K-State Day of Service, Parrish has been spotted leading groups of student-athletes in community improvement projects around Manhattan. His commitment to the university extends to regular appearances at alumni events where he represents the football program with professionalism.
Parrish actively participates in the Wildcat Mentor program, pairing with incoming freshmen to ease their transition to college life. This initiative has been particularly meaningful for first-generation college students from Kansas communities similar to his hometown.
The junior cornerback has also become a fixture at K-State’s youth football camps, where his patient coaching style and approachable demeanor make him popular with young athletes.
Off-the-Field Activities
Away from football, Parrish dedicates substantial time to causes close to his heart. He regularly returns to Olathe North High School to speak with students about perseverance and academic excellence.
His community service focus often centers on youth literacy programs in underserved Kansas communities. Parrish has organized book drives and reading sessions at local elementary schools, emphasizing the importance of education alongside athletics.
During the off-season, he volunteers with Habitat for Humanity projects in both Manhattan and Olathe. These hands-on experiences reflect his commitment to strengthening the communities that have supported his journey.
Parrish also maintains a relatively low-key social media presence compared to many of his peers. He prefers to let his actions speak louder than online posts. When he does share content, it typically highlights community events rather than personal accomplishments.
Future Projections & Professional Potential
Jacob Parrish has established himself as a solid cornerback prospect with strong tackling ability and sound coverage skills. His technical proficiency and football IQ will likely translate well to the professional level despite lacking elite athleticism.
Transfer Portal Prospects
Parrish’s decision to remain at Kansas State rather than enter the transfer portal has proven beneficial for his development. He’s demonstrated loyalty to the Wildcats program while steadily improving his draft stock each season.
The cornerback market in the transfer portal has been active, but Parrish wisely stayed put where coaches understood how to maximize his skill set. His consistency at K-State has allowed NFL scouts to evaluate his growth in a single defensive system.
Stability matters to pro evaluators, and Parrish’s choice to avoid the portal carousel shows maturity that teams value. This decision-making process reflects the same calculated approach he brings to his coverage assignments.
Long-Term Career Expectations
Parrish projects as a 4th round selection in the upcoming NFL Draft. He’s currently ranked around #120 overall and #20 among cornerbacks. His strong tackling and sound coverage abilities make him a potential value pick.
NFL scouts particularly like his technique and strength, though they note he lacks elite makeup speed when beaten vertically. This could limit his ceiling but not his effectiveness in the right scheme.
Parrish should thrive in zone-heavy defensive schemes where his off-coverage skills and football intelligence will shine. Teams like Minnesota and Pittsburgh have shown interest in his skillset.
NFL Draft Profile – Jacob Parrish
| Attribute | Rating | NFL Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | 85% | Amani Oruwariye |
| Tackling | Very Good | Cameron Sutton |
| Draft Projection | 4th Round | #120 Overall |
| Scheme Fit | Zone-Heavy | Vikings, Steelers |
