Jaguars WR Christian Kirk looks to 'wake some people back up' in 2024

After suffering a season-ending core muscle injury, Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Christian Kirk is motivated to provide a reminder of just who he is.

“I feel like the offseason has been forever for me. Injuries are more mentally challenging than anything,” Kirk said this week at OTAs, via Jacksonville.com. “It tests your mental, but it can kind of callus your mind. Putting yourself in uncomfortable situations and pushing through. Like I said, adversity, but I’m just excited. Got a chip on my shoulder, ready to wake some people back up and remind them the type of player that I am.”

Kirk had the best season of his career in 2022, his first with the Jaguars, setting career records with 84 catches, 1,108 receiving yards, and eight touchdowns. However, his 2023 season ended five games earlier than expected.

His goal now is to regain his health and return to his 2022 form.

In 2022, Kirk was the Jaguars’ No. 1 WR and he’ll have that opportunity again with Calvin Ridley leaving in free agency to sign with the Tennessee Titans. The Jaguars also saw veteran Zay Jones head to Arizona. To make up for the losses of Ridley and Jones this offseason, Jacksonville signed Gabe Davis and Devin Duvernay.

Jacksonville’s WR room currently stands with Elijah Cooks, Davis, Duvernay, Tim Jones, Kirk, Parker Washington, Seth Williams and 2024 first-round pick Brian Thomas Jr. Heading into the final days of OTAs, Kirk is the oldest wide receiver in the room at 27 years old.

Kirk is excited for his third year in Jacksonville after his 2023 season was cut short due to an injury.

“Personally, I feel as though I’m returning to the place I should and want to be,” said Kirk. “I’m excited about bouncing back and having a successful season.”