Bucs DB Parrish Leading NFL in Passes Defended

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' defensive effort has been stout and consistent, with the run defense once again leading the charge.

But, the Bucs' young secondary deserves a lot of credit for the growth they have shown, with second-year defensive back Jacob Parrish leading the way.

After posting a solid rookie campaign where he mostly played in the slot and nickel, Parrish was moved to the outside during the offseason, filling in a position held by longtime standout corner Jamel Dean.

In the offseason, Parrish talked about his excitement to add to his versatility.

"A lot of people can't do that," Parrish said.

Thus far, the move has paid dividends, as Parrish has continued to take steps in the right direction.

Through the opening seven weeks, Parrish has recorded 11 passes defended, which leads the league.

While last season, Parrish's tackling and ability to blitz the quarterback out of the secondary was his specialty, the former Kansas State standout has become one of Tampa's most-consistent defenders on the outside.

In the Bucs' recent rout of the Carolina Panthers, Parrish added two passes defended to his total, marking his fourth-straight game with at least two.

Parrish's ability to break on the football and attack receivers' hands is evident, as he is always fighting for positioning.

In Tampa's other victory of the season, Parrish terrorized the Dallas Cowboys' offense, recording a career-high four passes defended, and a team-high nine tackles.

His play has positioned himself for a significant role on the outside of head coach Todd Bowles' defense going forward, while also garnering some national respect.

Outside of knocking down passes, Parrish is surrendering only a 73.5 passer rating when targeted, showing his level of focus in coverage. 

This mark ranks No. 10 in the NFL among qualified defenders, and highlights the second-year man's growth.

Following the Bucs' win over Carolina, former NFL defensive back and analyst Ryan Clark credited Tampa's secondary, while giving Zyon McCollum his nod for the "1st quarter of the season All Pro Corner" via X.

Heading into Sunday's interdivisional matchup with the Atlanta Falcons, Parrish will be needed to play at a high level to slow down the Falcons' hot offense.

Michael Penix Jr. is beginning to look comfortable after missing the beginning of the year with an injury, while starting running back Bijan Robinson is leading the NFL with 704 rushing yards, while adding another 203 yards through the air.

The Bucs seek their first win streak of the season Sunday at home against Atlanta.