Jaguars' newcomer Travis Hunter's dual-performance earns candid appraisal from coach Liam Coen
The Jacksonville Jaguars, fresh off a disappointing 4-13 season in 2024, are pinning their hopes on a versatile rookie, Travis Hunter. Drafted second overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, Hunter is expected to play a significant dual role for the Jaguars, serving as both a starting wide receiver and a backup cornerback.
Liam Coen, the Jaguars' new head coach, is optimistic about Hunter's potential impact on the team. During Saturday's scrimmage, Coen expressed satisfaction with Hunter's performance on offense, stating that he operated at a high level when he had the ball in his hands. However, due to the first-team defensive line getting a good rush, Hunter did not get much action at cornerback during the scrimmage.
Hunter's rare two-way capability was developed during his college career, where he played both positions. In his final season, he made 96 catches for 1,258 yards and scored 15 touchdowns on offense. On defense, he made 36 tackles, 11 pass deflections, four interceptions, and forced one fumble.
Coen believes that Hunter's natural position is defensive back and anticipates him to grow there later in camp and the season. Yet, he has given Hunter more days at offense early on to help him master the offensive system. This two-way usage is unusual in the modern NFL, but it indicates the Jaguars see Hunter as a dynamic playmaker who can impact the game offensively and defensively.
Analysts note that Hunter fills a critical need on a Jaguars defense that struggled significantly in pass coverage in 2024, making his defensive contributions especially valuable. Betting odds from FanDuel Sportsbook reflect high hopes for Hunter, with him favored to surpass 1,000 receiving yards, record 75+ receptions, and score 10 or more total touchdowns combining offense and defense.
With Hunter's addition to the team, the Jaguars aim to correct their defensive weaknesses. The rookie's talent on offense, alongside quarterback Trevor Lawrence, promises an exciting offensive duo. As the Jaguars prepare for the 2025 season, they look to Hunter as a pivotal piece that could shape their performance on both sides of the ball.
Coen, in his first year as head coach, is confident in Hunter's work ethic on both sides of the ball. The Jaguars acquired this pick in a trade with the Cleveland Browns, a move that could prove to be a turning point for the franchise. Despite missing the playoffs in back-to-back seasons, the Jaguars are optimistic about their chances in 2025, with Hunter at the forefront of their hopes.
- The Jaguars' new draft pick, Travis Hunter, is not only a potential game-changer on offense but also a valuable addition to the defense, given his impressive statistics in both roles during his collegiate career.
- Analysts anticipate Travis Hunter to surpass 1,000 receiving yards, record 75+ receptions, and score 10 or more total touchdowns, reflecting high hopes for his offensive contributions in the upcoming 2025 NFL season.
- As the Jacksonville Jaguars set their sights on the 2025 playoffs, they place their hopes on rookie Travis Hunter's exceptional versatility in both offense and defense, hoping that his dual capability can rejuvenate their struggling defense and create an exciting new dynamic on the field.
