In Washington’s 21-18 loss to Rutgers, junior defensive tackle Jayvon Parker suffered a significant injury after bringing down Scarlet Knights running back Samuel Brown V late in the fourth quarter. Parker, who stayed down on the field in visible pain, was later helped off by trainers and teammate D’Angalo Titialii.
His absence was felt immediately, as Brown scored a decisive 37-yard touchdown run on the following play. Coach Jedd Fisch expressed sympathy for Parker, acknowledging his hard work to return to the field.
On Monday, Fisch announced that Parker has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a torn Achilles tendon, joining his twin brother Armon Parker, who suffered a torn ACL before the season began.
Jayvon Parker, who recorded 10 tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss and 0.5 sacks this season, is the third Washington player sidelined for the year, following his brother and freshman tight end Charlie Crowell.
The Huskies will face No. 10 Michigan in a rematch of last year’s College Football Playoff championship on Saturday at Husky Stadium. Fisch lamented the injuries to the Parker twins, hoping both could be ready for spring football.
Parker, a 6-foot-3, 297-pound tackle, had become integral to Washington’s improved defense. He made his season debut on September 7 against Eastern Michigan after missing fall camp due to injury.
With Parker out, Washington has six scholarship defensive tackles available. Fisch expects contributions from players who stepped in during Parker’s absence earlier this season. Sixth-year senior Sebastian Valdez, junior Logan Sagapolu, and redshirt freshman Elinneus Davis are among those expected to step up. Junior Bryce Butler is also set to return after three games out due to injury.
In addition, true freshman Omar Khan, a three-star recruit and former wrestling champion, could also provide depth. Fisch mentioned other options like senior Voi Tunuufi and junior Deshawn Lynch, both of whom have experience playing inside and on the edge.
With Michigan’s potent rushing attack averaging nearly 195 yards per game, losing Parker presents a considerable challenge for Washington’s defense. Fisch stated the team would adjust personnel and find the best combinations to compensate for the loss.
In other news, Washington’s upcoming game against Iowa will kick off at 9 a.m. on October 12, and Fisch is optimistic about junior edge rusher Zach Durfee’s availability despite a toe injury. However, he indicated that sixth-year tight end Quentin Moore and sophomore wide receiver Kevin Green Jr. are likely to miss the game against Michigan. Fisch also addressed senior linebacker Bryun Parham’s decision to redshirt and enter the transfer portal, noting that he is seeking a starting opportunity elsewhere.
