Travis Hunter, the Jacksonville Jaguars’ second-overall pick and reigning 2024 Heisman Trophy winner, is turning heads in training camp with his rare two-way play. During Tuesday’s session, Hunter split time between wide receiver and cornerback, donning different colored jerseys to signify the switch.
Though the change of jerseys caused minor complications, offensive teammates occasionally grabbed his loose-fitting defensive overlay, the switch is part of his growing routine with the team. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence called the spectacle “pretty crazy,” noting that he’s never seen anything like it in his football career.
Jaguars Strategically Develop Hunter’s Two-Way Role with Measured, Methodical Practice Progression
Hunter’s dual-role responsibilities are not entirely new, as he first practiced playing both positions in a Saturday night scrimmage at EverBank Stadium. There, he saw nearly equal playing time with both the first-team offense and defense. On Tuesday, the pattern continued with Hunter logging nine snaps on each side during 11-on-11 drills.
This strategic use aligns with the Jaguars’ vision when they traded up in the draft, surrendering a second-round pick and a 2026 first rounder to secure Hunter’s services. His versatility is not only impressive but part of a larger plan in his NFL development.
Travis Hunter (NFL)According to head coach Liam Coen, the Jaguars have been methodically working toward this two-way deployment. Hunter initially worked exclusively at receiver during May’s organized team activities, gradually increasing his defensive reps.
By training camp’s start, he alternated between offense and defense on separate days. The latest evolution switching sides mid-practice reflects the team’s confidence in his understanding of the playbook and overall readiness. Though it may not be a daily practice, Coen hinted it would be more common than not going forward.
Hunter’s Versatility and Star Power Energize Jaguars on Both Sides of the Ball
Trevor Lawrence highlighted Hunter’s unique energy and presence on the field, emphasizing not just his skillset but also the intangibles he brings fan engagement, high energy, and visible joy in playing. Lawrence praised how Hunter is beginning to play faster and more freely as he becomes more comfortable with the team’s system.
He expressed a slight preference for seeing Hunter on offense more often, given the spark he provides, but acknowledged the value Hunter adds on both sides of the ball.
Hunter adds much-needed star power to Jacksonville, a team historically short on nationally recognized names. His collegiate performance at Colorado was exceptional on both offense and defense, making him one of the most dynamic players entering the NFL in recent memory.
The Jaguars plan to primarily use him as a slot receiver while deploying him at cornerback situationally. Whether he plays in Saturday’s preseason opener against the Steelers is still uncertain, as the coaching staff continues to weigh their approach. Coen emphasized the difficulty of deciding how much exposure Hunter and other key players should get, balancing development with caution.
