In Parrish’s first year with the 49ers, he started every game at safety while tallying up a team-leading 7 interceptions, one forced fumble, two fumble recoveries, and 71 tackles. Parrish received the Ed Block Courage Award in 2002 for representing courage and leadership in the face of adversity, and in Parrish's case was based on his performance that excelled regardless of the many injuries that he sustained throughout the season. Along with the Ed Block Courage Award, Parrish received multiple awards for his role with the 49ers in 2002 on and off the field: Sports Illustrated All-Pro, Football Digest All-Pro, and the Len Eshmont Award from the 49ers organization (where he was the first 49er to win the award in his inaugural season with the franchise).