JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — After dedicating two days to honing his skills as a wide receiver during Jacksonville’s rookie minicamp, Travis Hunter, a versatile player with outstanding abilities on both sides of the field, is set to switch gears. Moving forward, he’s preparing to train with the defense next week as part of the team’s offseason conditioning program. This strategic shift aligns with Jacksonville’s broader plan to maximize Hunter’s talents during the upcoming organized team activities (OTAs).
Head Coach Liam Coen expressed optimism about Hunter’s transition, stating on Saturday, “He’ll be able to get integrated next week on the defensive side of the ball. He’ll start to roll on defense.” Hunter’s effectiveness on the offensive front has already been evident, as he exhibited consistent performance in receiving roles, catching almost every pass and aggressively seeking opportunities to refine his gameplay.
Understanding the high expectations placed upon him, Hunter shared, “The organization expects a lot out of me. They expect me to come out here and play right away. I’m going to do whatever it takes for me to play right away.” His commitment is underscored by the Jaguars’ bold decision to trade up three spots in the NFL draft last month to secure Hunter with the second overall pick, an investment that cost them a second-round pick and next year’s first-rounder, among other assets. His star power is poised to invigorate the franchise significantly.
Hunter’s arrival has caused quite a stir, with fans eager to support him by purchasing his No. 12 jerseys. Not only is he a Heisman Trophy winner, but he also commands a robust online presence with his own YouTube channel. His charismatic personality and talent have consistently uplifted his teams, starting from his high school days in Georgia to his impactful performances at Jackson State and Colorado.
Despite a relatively lean stature at 6-foot-1 and 185 pounds, Hunter’s dynamic presence was palpable during practice. Coach Coen recounted an instance when Hunter’s cleat slipped off mid-route, an obstacle he overcame to make an impressive catch, highlighting his tenacity and focus. “It’s more just his presence and the energy he does provide both in the classroom, in the meeting rooms and also out here on the field,” Coen remarked.
Hunter recently celebrated a personal milestone by participating in his graduation ceremony at Colorado, proudly sporting Jaguars pajama pants. Reflecting on this moment, he humorously noted, “That’s the first thing I ordered off of Amazon when I got drafted.” Subsequent to this, Hunter donned the Jaguars’ teal jersey, with expectations for him to switch between team colors during practices depending on his role.
Statistically, Hunter’s record is impressive; he registered 96 catches for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns last season. Defensively, he achieved 35 tackles, 11 pass breakups, eight forced incompletions, and four interceptions while allowing only one touchdown. This fall, the Jaguars plan to capitalize on his versatility, deploying him as a slot receiver offensively and a cornerback defensively. Such dual-role responsibilities are familiar territory for Hunter, who led college football in snaps in 2024.
Hunter has not only embraced a leadership role among his fellow rookies but also aims to inspire the broader team. The presence of former Colorado players like defensive lineman B.J. Green II and safety Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig, both of whom share a history with Hunter, could facilitate his integration. Silmon-Craig, recalling their shared past, noted, “It feels like a family here. It’s a new everything around here. We’re just trying to change the culture here and build a culture. Why not get a couple Colorado guys?”
Highlighting Hunter’s pivotal influence and charisma, Silmon-Craig described him as “a waymaker, a game-changer, a phenomenal person,” complementing Hunter’s passion for the game, emphasizing his lively personality: “if he comes out here and doesn’t dance one practice, I’m going to go ask him, ‘You good? What’s wrong?’ That’s what he does. He dances and flies around and has fun. That’s why I love him.”