Jacksonville Jaguars’ rookie Travis Hunter is trying to accomplish what no NFL player has ever done. Some NFL players in past years have played on offense, defense, and special teams. One notable example is Hunter’s former head coach at the University of Colorado, Deion Sanders. Sanders put together a brilliant Hall of Fame career as a shut down cornerback, whose responsibility was to cover the opposing team’s best wide receiver. Sanders also occasionally returned punts and kickoffs, recording nine touchdowns returning kickoffs and punts during his 14 year career.
Hunter is looking to take this type of versatility to the next level. As a member of the Jaguars, Hunter is looking to play cornerback and wide receiver. And he’s looking to play both positions full time. Hunter has the credentials to excel at both positions. During his senior season at the University of Colorado, Hunter recorded 96 receptions for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns. While playing cornerback, Hunter recorded 36 total tackles, 11 passes defended, as well as four interceptions. Hunter was awarded the 2024 Heisman Trophy as the nation’s top collegiate player. Hunter’s collegiate resume was stellar enough for the Jaguars to select him second overall in the 2025 NFL draft.
The Jaguars need an impact player after finishing with a 4-13 record in 2024. Hunter has the ability to provide that impact on both sides of the ball. But there’s some concern about how efficient he’ll be on the field. Hunter may have to play over 60 plays during each game. Having to run precise routes on offense, as well as covering opposing wide receivers will definitely take its toll. Jacksonville rookie head coach Liam Coen and his coaching staff will monitor Hunter’s physical well being and keep track of how efficient his play is on offense and defense.
It’s possible that Hunter could become a great cornerback like Deion Sanders, his head coach at Colorado and Jackson State. He also could become a great wide receiver not unlike Hall of Famer Jerry Rice. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Hunter is committed to playing both cornerback and wide receiver while bringing great energy to each position. Jaguars’ fans would love for Hunter to become transcendent at both positions. That would solidify his status as a true one of a kind player. But if Hunter is only solid at both positions, and Jacksonville shows improvement, it’s a trade off that’s definitely worth it.