Travis Hunter’s Dual Role: Jaguars’ Plans for Preseason Showcase

By Jason Bolton August 10, 2025 19:02

Travis Hunter is entering the 2025 NFL preseason with a groundbreaking role for the Jacksonville Jaguars as a genuine two-way player expected to contribute both as a wide receiver and cornerback. This rare distinction makes Hunter one of the most fascinating and closely watched rookies in the NFL, as the Jaguars embrace an ambitious plan to utilize his exceptional athleticism and versatility to impact the game on both offense and defense.

Drafted second overall in the 2025 NFL Draft following a dramatic trade from the Cleveland Browns, Hunter is widely regarded as a rare athletic marvel. His blazing speed, physicality, and instincts allow him to excel at two traditionally demanding positions receiver and cornerback giving Jacksonville a unique strategic advantage few teams possess. Jaguars head coach Liam Coen emphasized how carefully the team is balancing the demands of such a dual role. “One period, he may be with us [offense], the next period, he’s with them [defense],” Coen explained. “He’s done a really good job with that, and we’re managing his workload meticulously”.

Hunter’s two-way usage isn’t just a novelty; it’s a bold experiment that could revolutionize football if successful. Early preseason practices and games have showcased his ability to switch seamlessly between roles. During a recent scrimmage, Hunter logged 17 offensive snaps with four catches for 43 yards, followed by 21 snaps playing cornerback, effectively demonstrating his mental and physical adaptability. Jaguars defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile noted the challenge but praised Hunter’s progress: “It’s a demanding workload but he’s responded brilliantly. The physical and mental commitment is impressive".

Offensively, Hunter is expected to be a key weapon for quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Lawrence has openly expressed his preference to see Hunter maximize his potential as a receiver, saying, “Selfishly, I definitely prefer him on offense… but wherever he plays, he’ll elevate our team”. On defense, Hunter’s role as a cornerback adds valuable athleticism and coverage skills to a Jaguars secondary that needs strengthening.

The Jaguars front office shares this excitement. GM James Gladstone remarked, “He’s an exceptional talent… Our choice to draft him was a declaration of our direction and identity as a team. Travis Hunter is the player we have been seeking”. Hall of Fame Jaguars great Tony Boselli echoed these sentiments, initially skeptical but ultimately convinced by Hunter’s football intelligence and passion. “If anyone can do it, it’s this guy,” Boselli stated.

The Jaguars plan to put Hunter on full display in their preseason opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he is expected to see snaps at both wide receiver and cornerback. This game will provide a critical glimpse into how the Jaguars manage his unique role as they prepare for a season in which Hunter could become the first regular two-way player in decades.

Hunter himself remains grounded but optimistic: “They actually trust me. They put a lot on my plate, but I just have to go out there and continue to attack the work they give me”. Balancing two playbooks and roles is mentally taxing, but Hunter’s work ethic and enthusiasm have impressed coaches across the board.

In summary, Travis Hunter’s dual role is not just an experiment but a declared strategic centerpiece for the Jaguars’ 2025 season. If he can succeed at both wide receiver and cornerback, Hunter could rewrite conventional NFL wisdom, offering a dynamic threat rare in modern football and a potential model for future two-way stars.