Jaguars Navigate Rookie Travis Hunter's Dual-Role Challenges Amid AFC Contest

Rookie Travis Hunter, drafted second overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars, has been navigating a challenging dual role as both a wide receiver and cornerback in the 2025 NFL season. Despite high expectations following his 2024 Heisman Trophy win, Hunter's offensive output has been modest through the first five games, with 13 catches for 118 yards and no touchdowns, ranking seventh on the team in receiving yards per game. However, his two-way performance shone in a key Week 5 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, where he made a career-high 64 receiving yards including a 44-yard catch, alongside multiple tackles and a pass defensed. The Jaguars coaching staff, including offensive coordinator Grant Udinski and head coach Liam Coen, are managing Hunter's workload carefully to balance his offensive potential and defensive duties, with Hunter playing a significant percentage of snaps on both sides of the ball. Former college coach Deion Sanders has expressed concerns that Jacksonville is not fully utilizing Hunter's offensive talent, while some NFL analysts note his strengths on specific routes but see room for development in his overall route running. Overall, the Jaguars remain patient, focusing on Hunter's long-term development and gradual integration of his dual capabilities as they prepare for upcoming games.