JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — On a buzzing NFL draft night, the Jacksonville Jaguars made a significant splash by trading up to secure the remarkable talents of Travis Hunter as their No. 2 pick. Both the offensive and defensive coordinators eagerly welcomed Hunter through a call, acknowledging the multifaceted potential he brings to the team.
In a bold move, the Jaguars exchanged four valuable picks, including second- and fourth-round selections for this year and a first-rounder for 2026, to select the Heisman Trophy recipient. This decision has been pivotal for the new regime in Jacksonville, featuring first-time general manager James Gladstone, head coach Liam Coen, and executive vice president Tony Boselli.
“We have identified Travis as a generational talent capable of reshaping not just games, but the sport itself,” Gladstone explained, underscoring Hunter’s potential to change the team’s prospects fundamentally.
As part of the trade agreement with the Browns, Jacksonville gained additional fourth-round and sixth-round selections, enhancing their strategic flexibility. The trade discussions had been initiated at the beginning of the month and were finalized quickly once Tennessee picked Miami’s Cam Ward first overall.
Hunter is anticipated to form a dynamic offensive trio with franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence and Pro Bowl receiver Brian Thomas Jr. His dual-position prowess is key; Jacksonville plans to utilize him mainly as a receiver while incorporating defensive schemes to harness his skills.
Hunter confidently stated, “There’s no pressure for me. I’ve just got to be Travis Hunter. The Jaguars made a big commitment to bring me on board; now it’s my duty to contribute to the team’s success and elevate their status.”
Influential in Hunter’s development, Deion Sanders has coached him across two college teams, endorsing his capability to thrive in both offensive and defensive roles. With an impressive 1,461 snaps under his belt — a stark contrast to Denver’s defensive star Patrick Surtain II’s 978 — Hunter’s adaptability is noteworthy.
Recognizing the demands and challenges at the professional level, Gladstone highlighted the team’s plan to foster Hunter’s growth primarily on offense initially, given his deeper understanding of defensive play. “Our focus is to ensure he navigates the offensive nuances effectively, gradually balancing his role over time,” Gladstone elaborated.
Last season revealed Hunter’s versatility, as he amassed 96 receptions, 1,258 receiving yards, and 15 touchdowns, along with 35 tackles, 11 pass deflections, eight missed pass attempts induced, and four interceptions while conceding only a single touchdown.
Gladstone, Coen, and Boselli aimed to make a mark with their top pick. Speculation centered on maintaining their position to select Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty, yet they opted for a more transformative choice, emphasizing Hunter’s potential impact.
Reflecting on the decision, Gladstone shared, “This experience has been truly exhilarating. The drafting of Travis marks a milestone that bears significant promise, and I eagerly anticipate witnessing the outcomes of this invaluable selection.”