JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (WJHL) — For former Elizabethton standout Parker Hughes, the first few weeks of NFL life have been centered on learning.
After signing a four-year rookie contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars in May, Hughes has begun navigating a crowded linebacker room while adjusting to the demands of professional football. Early projections indicate the rookie could make an impact on special teams, but Hughes said his primary focus right now is absorbing as much knowledge as possible from the veterans around him.
“I mean, what is there not to learn? I’m a rook, man,” Hughes said. “Anything that can help me make my game better. There’s so much detail with just how you go about your business. Everything matters. It’s all important, and those guys understand it.”
The former Elizabethton Cyclone and Middle Tennessee State linebacker said he’s paying close attention to how experienced players prepare in every aspect of their game.
“Right now, it’s just focusing on the little things and watching how they do it. It’s getting my mind – mental, physical, and everything ready for the game,” Hughes said.
Hughes was selected by the Jaguars in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft and signed a four-year rookie deal worth approximately $4.5 million. Jacksonville will continue its offseason preparations when the team’s next mandatory minicamp begins June 9.
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.