Jaguars Pivot to Use Prized Two-Way Rookie as Full-Time Cornerback

Jacksonville traded up to draft Travis Hunter, who dominated on both offense and defense in college, but now plans to use him primarily as a cornerback.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 10:38am

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a football player in motion, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in vibrant colors representing both offensive and defensive actions, conveying the complexity and versatility of the player's abilities.The Jaguars' decision to shift their prized two-way rookie to a primarily defensive role raises questions about their commitment to maximizing his unique talents.Today in Jacksonville

The Jacksonville Jaguars made a bold move in the 2025 NFL Draft, trading up to select Travis Hunter with the 2nd overall pick. Hunter was a dominant two-way player in college, leading the Big 12 in receiving while also excelling on defense. However, after an injury-shortened rookie season, the Jaguars now reportedly plan to use Hunter primarily as a full-time cornerback going forward, with only occasional snaps on offense.

Why it matters

This decision by the Jaguars raises questions about their initial vision for Hunter and whether they are maximizing the value of the significant draft capital they surrendered to acquire him. Hunter was adamant about continuing to play on both sides of the ball in the NFL, but the team's reported plans suggest they may be pivoting away from that approach.

The details

In his rookie season, Hunter played 67% of the Jaguars' offensive snaps and 36% of the defensive snaps, indicating he was being used more as an offensive weapon than a true two-way player. Now, reports indicate the team plans to flip that ratio, deploying him primarily as a cornerback with only occasional offensive snaps. This represents a significant shift from the team's initial plans and the vision Hunter had for his NFL career.

  • In October 2025, Hunter suffered an LCL tear that ended his rookie season.
  • In January 2026, Jaguars GM James Gladstone stated the team still expected Hunter to play on both sides of the ball.
  • In April 2026, NFL Network reporters stated the Jaguars plan to use Hunter as a full-time cornerback and part-time wide receiver.

The players

Travis Hunter

A former two-way star at Colorado who was selected 2nd overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2025 NFL Draft.

James Gladstone

The general manager of the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Tony Jefferson

A 13-year NFL veteran defensive back who commented on Hunter's situation, welcoming him to the 'league' where plans can change without players being informed.

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What they’re saying

“It's never playing football again. Because I've been doing it my whole life, and I love being on the football field. I feel like I could dominate on each side of the ball, so I really enjoy doing it.”

— Travis Hunter

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

— Tony Jefferson, 13-year NFL veteran defensive back

What’s next

The Jaguars' plans for Hunter will become clearer once training camp begins in 2026, as the team's initial snap distribution and usage of the prized rookie will reveal their true intentions.

The takeaway

The Jaguars' reported pivot away from using Travis Hunter as a true two-way player raises questions about their commitment to maximizing the value of the significant draft capital they surrendered to acquire him. While deploying him primarily at cornerback may make practical sense, it could limit Hunter's offensive earning potential and the generational legacy he sought to build as a unique two-way talent.