Travis Hunter is making headlines this summer, ready to face the challenges of being a dual-threat player in the NFL. With a wide smile that matches his optimistic spirit, the rookie cornerback and wide receiver for the Jacksonville Jaguars embraces both the excitement and skepticism surrounding his unique talent.
At a recent training camp, Hunter addressed the media, expressing his enthusiasm for being able to play both positions. “It actually makes me smile,” he said, referring to the doubts some hold about his two-way capabilities. “They don’t know what to say. So they just keep hating.”
The Jaguars organization, led by young general manager James Gladstone and head coach Liam Cohen, has wholeheartedly supported Hunter since trading up to select him as the second overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft. Their confidence in his athleticism and versatility has sparked optimism among fans and teammates alike.
Upon signing his rookie contract, Hunter was celebrated by his new team in a unique way. The Jaguars’ social media accounts shared his signing twice—once highlighting his role as a wide receiver and again as a defensive back, illustrating their commitment to utilizing his skills on both sides of the ball.
From the start, Hunter made it clear during the pre-draft process that he wanted to maintain his dual role in the NFL. In fact, he even mentioned that he would consider stepping away from football if the team that drafted him insisted that he specialize in just one position.
As he embarks on his training camp journey, the Jaguars are helping Hunter adapt to their offensive and defensive systems through a structured approach. During the first few practice sessions, he wore his team’s teal gear and focused on offensive drills. More recently, he switched to a white practice jersey and joined the defense. This plan marks a shift from his routine at Colorado, where he practiced as both a receiver and cornerback every day.
Hunter appreciates the team’s methodical approach. “I need to be able to process everything fast, quick,” he explained. He understands the importance of quickly adapting to changes, emphasizing the need to grasp plays and strategies instantly on both offense and defense. “I like that we’re starting off slow, getting me adjusted. This will help me know where I need to be on one side of the ball each day, and then it’ll all come together,” he stated.
Eventually, Hunter will participate in practice sessions where he plays both positions within the same day. “I have to get to that point to understand both sides immediately,” he noted, referring to the two complex playbooks that he’ll need to master.
During his time at Colorado, Hunter proved his adeptness in playing multiple roles. In the 2024 season alone, he logged over 1,500 snaps across offense and defense, showing a rare capability to excel in various positions. His versatility resulted in impressive statistics, including catching 96 passes for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns, as well as significant contributions on defense.
Hunter himself acknowledges that juggling both roles is more of a mental challenge than a physical one. He shared that he maintains a meticulously organized schedule, collaborating closely with his coaches to ensure he is prepared for each position’s demands. This schedule is prominently displayed in his locker, reminding him of where he needs to be at all times.
However, transitioning between roles does require some mental switching. He explained, “It’s a switch that you have to flip because the terms are different, and the plays vary. The defense calls formations differently than the offense.”
Once on the field, Hunter strives to show critics what he’s capable of. “When I hit the field, it’s all the same to me. I just go to work,” he said with determination.
Through it all, Travis Hunter remains committed to proving doubters wrong, all while keeping a smile on his face. As he prepares for the upcoming NFL season with the Jacksonville Jaguars, fans and teammates alike are eager to see the impact this young star will have in both aerial attacks and defensive strategies.
