How the Jacksonville Jaguars Should Utilize Travis Hunter When He Returns

Now that the Jaguars are acquiring Myers from the Raiders, the team’s roster balance is shifting, and that should directly impact how they deploy Travis Hunter when he returns. The Jaguars should primarily utilize Hunter as a cornerback on defense and as a number-three receiver on offense.

Why Cornerback First?

Green Bay Packers cornerback Charles Woodson returns a punt 12 yards during the fourth quarter of their game against the Chicago Bears Sunday, September 10, 2006 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. (MARK HOFFMAN/MHOFFMAN@JOURNALSENTINEL.COM)

Just look at his tape against Davante Adams. Hunter’s athleticism jumps off the screen: fluid hips, elite closing speed, and an instinct for the ball that few corners possess. He can run stride-for-stride with nearly any receiver in the league. If he dedicates his focus to the defensive side, he has all the tools to develop into a shutdown corner. He reminds me a lot of Chris Gamble, and yes, you can even throw Charles Woodson into that conversation, two players who thrived with similar two-way potential before locking into elite defensive roles.

What About Him as a Receiver?

The Jaguars already have a deep group of pass catchers, especially now with Meyers in the mix. They’ll rely on that depth while Hunter is on injured reserve, but when he’s active, they can afford to use him strategically. Hunter should still see snaps in passing situations or three-receiver sets, where his versatility can be weaponized against third corners, creating a matchup nightmare.

Jacksonville Jaguars Defensive Coordinator Breaks Down Travis Hunter’s Development – Angela Miele via SI.com

Career Trajectory

wide receiver sleepers
Nov 17, 2024; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Jakobi Meyers (16) runs with the football against Miami Dolphins cornerback Kader Kohou (4) during the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Hunter is talented enough to play both ways, but long-term success in the NFL will likely come from specialization. If he puts most of his focus on defense, Hunter has All-Pro potential at cornerback. Playing both ways full-time might generate highlight moments, but it could also prevent him from consistently earning postseason honors like Pro Bowl selections.

Final Takeaway

In short, the Jaguars have something special in Travis Hunter, a rare athlete who can impact the game in multiple ways. But if they want him to reach his ceiling, the smart move is clear: let him lock down opposing receivers first, and sprinkle in the offensive fireworks when the matchups are right.

Jaguars Get Encouraging Travis Hunter News– John Shipley via Si.com

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