Jaguars Plan Dual Role for Travis Hunter: Balancing Reps at Cornerback and Receiver
Jacksonville Jaguars are preparing to maximize the versatility of their highly-touted rookie, Travis Hunter, by balancing his daily practice reps between cornerback and wide receiver during upcoming offseason activities. The team’s approach signals a commitment to Hunter’s unique talent as a two-way player, a role rarely seen at the NFL level.
After Hunter is medically cleared to participate this spring, Jaguars coaches plan to integrate him into both defensive and offensive drills throughout OTAs. The move comes amid growing anticipation surrounding Hunter’s impact, following a college career marked by standout performances on both sides of the ball. While most rookies focus exclusively on their primary position, Jacksonville is betting that Hunter’s athleticism and football IQ can translate to a dual role.
- Hunter will spend practice time at cornerback, where his coverage skills and speed were a hallmark of his collegiate career.
- He will also take reps at wide receiver, leveraging his ability to create separation and make contested catches.
- The team’s plan is to balance Hunter’s workload, ensuring he can develop in both roles without risking fatigue or injury.
This strategic approach underscores the Jaguars' confidence in Hunter’s adaptability and their willingness to break with traditional player development models. While two-way players are more common in college football, the physical demands of the NFL make such roles rare. Hunter’s ability to contribute on both sides could provide the Jaguars with a unique competitive edge.
As OTAs progress, all eyes will be on Hunter’s performance and the coaching staff’s management of his reps. The team’s decision to balance his workload reflects both caution and ambition—a recognition of Hunter’s potential and the importance of preserving his health as he transitions to the professional level.
Sources
- [1]ESPN NFL