Jaguars' Travis Hunter Disputes Reports of Full-Time Cornerback Role

The second-year player appears to have a different vision for his position in 2026.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 7:53pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football player in motion, with sharp planes of teal, black, and gold representing the player's movements and positions on the field.A cubist interpretation of a versatile NFL player's dual roles, highlighting the tension between individual aspirations and team strategy.Today in Jacksonville

Travis Hunter, a second-year player for the Jacksonville Jaguars, has disputed reports that the team plans to use him as a full-time cornerback and part-time wide receiver in the 2026 season. Hunter, who had his rookie season cut short due to a knee injury, has long stated his intention to be a two-way player in the NFL, similar to his college career. The Jaguars have a crowded wide receiver room, leading to speculation that Hunter may be better utilized as a full-time cornerback, but the player himself seems to disagree with this plan.

Why it matters

This situation highlights the potential disconnect between a player's personal goals and a team's strategic plans. Hunter's desire to be a two-way player could clash with the Jaguars' evaluation of where he can provide the most value. How this plays out could impact Hunter's development and the team's overall strategy for the upcoming season.

The details

NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport stated that the Jaguars intend to use Hunter as a full-time cornerback and part-time wide receiver in 2026. However, Hunter took to social media to dispute this report, asking 'Now who told you this?' Chargers safety Tony Jefferson suggested that the team may have leaked this information to Rapoport before informing Hunter himself. In his rookie season, Hunter played 67% of the team's offensive snaps and just 36% of its defensive snaps before his injury.

  • In 2025, Hunter caught 28 passes for 298 yards and a touchdown while playing 67% of the offensive snaps before suffering a season-ending injury.
  • On April 12, 2026, Hunter responded to Rapoport's report on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The players

Travis Hunter

A 22-year-old player entering his second season with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He had his rookie season cut short due to a knee injury and is expected to be back at 100% strength for training camp.

Ian Rapoport

An NFL Network reporter who reported that the Jaguars intend to use Hunter as a full-time cornerback and part-time wide receiver in 2026.

Tony Jefferson

A safety for the Los Angeles Chargers who weighed in on the situation, suggesting that the Jaguars may have leaked the information to Rapoport before informing Hunter.

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What they’re saying

“Now who told you this?”

— Travis Hunter, Jaguars Player

“They told him that, they just ain't told you yet rook. Welcome to the league.”

— Tony Jefferson, Chargers Safety

What’s next

It remains to be seen how the Jaguars will utilize Hunter in the 2026 season and whether they will inform him of their plans before the media reports on them.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the potential for miscommunication and differing expectations between players and teams, especially when it comes to a player's desired role and development. How the Jaguars and Hunter navigate this situation could have significant implications for the player's future and the team's overall strategy.