Defensive Lineman Justin Parrish Returns to Sharks

Wednesday October 29, 2014

 Veteran pass rusher enjoyed career year in 2014

JACKSONVILLE – The Jacksonville Sharks announced Tuesday that veteran defensive lineman Justin Parrish has returned to the team, as he has been assigned to the Jacksonville roster on a two-year contract. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The 30-year-old Parrish (6’2”, 265) is set for his fifth season with the Sharks and sixth overall campaign in the Arena Football League. Parrish put together the best season of his professional career in 2014, as he was a fixture in the Sharks’ starting lineup at defensive end. In addition to totaling 25.5 tackles (19 solo), Parrish set new career personal bests with 9.0 tackles for loss and 8.0 sacks, finishing tied for second and second on the team, respectively, in those two categories. Parrish also forced two fumbles, blocked a kick and knocked down a pass during the 2014 season.

In 2013, Parrish appeared in six games with the Sharks, totaling 11.5 tackles (eight solo), 2.5 tackles for loss and two sacks. Parrish also played in one game with the Orlando Predators during the second half of the 2013 campaign.

Parrish’ first stint with Jacksonville came from 2010-11. As a member of the Sharks’ ArenaBowl XXIV-winning team in 2011, Parrish appeared in 17 games (15 starts), logging 23.5 tackles (13 solo), 5.5 tackles for loss and four sacks. He was Jacksonville’s top pass rusher during the team’s three-game playoff run, as he notched two tackles for loss and a sack in the postseason. The previous season, Parrish broke into the AFL with three sacks, three forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries as a rookie.

Parrish spent the 2012 season with the Pittsburgh Power, where he appeared in 16 regular-season games. That season, Parrish emerged as one of the Power’s top pass rushers, ranking second on his team with 7.0 tackles for loss and third on the squad with four sacks.

A Maryland native, Parrish spent his collegiate career at Kent State University.

About the Jacksonville Sharks

The Jacksonville Sharks are members of the Arena Football League (AFL). The ArenaBowl XXIV and four-time South Division Champions are presented by Sea Best Seafood and play all home games on Sea Best Field at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena. Season Tickets for the 2015 season are now available, two tickets for as low as $99. To purchase your season tickets or for more information, please call (904) 621-0700. Follow the Sharks on facebook at facebook.com/jaxsharks and on Twitter @jaxsharks, as well as the Attack Dance Team at facebook.com/sharkattackdance and Chum at facebook.com/chumsharks.