Travis Hunter Takes the Field for the Jaguars

Travis Hunter won’t have to wait long to showcase his skills in the NFL. The Jaguars plan to utilize the versatile rookie as both a wide receiver and cornerback during their preseason opener against the Steelers at Everbank Stadium this Saturday.

As reported by ESPN, Hunter, who was drafted second overall by the Jaguars in April following a notable trade with the Browns during the 2025 NFL Draft, participated in practice on both offense and defense three times this week. It was also noted that the starters would be getting some playing time on the field.

Hunter’s teammate, center Robert Hainsey, shared an interaction that shed light on the team’s excitement: he recently entered the weight room and was struck by the energy, noting how everyone was eager to get to work. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence and first-year coach Liam Cohen also weighed in on the developments within the team.

“Trevor reached out to me recently, and we had a good conversation about being open and honest, which I really appreciate,” Hainsey remarked.

As Jacksonville enters its fifth season, there’s a clear intention to maximize Hunter’s potential as both a defender and offensive player, particularly in collaboration with Lawrence.

“He’s a unique talent,” one teammate observed, suggesting that the choice to pick him was a bold statement about the evolution of football. “We want him to play authentically; that’s when he really makes an impact on the game.”

Originally from Florida, Hunter followed coach Deion Sanders to Colorado after a standout college career at Jackson State, having also been associated with Buffalo in the previous two years.

After being drafted by the Jaguars, Hunter tied the knot with his longtime partner, Leanna Lenee, in an elegant ceremony in Tennessee.

The Jaguars are set to kick off their 2025 season at home against the Panthers, aiming to rebound from a challenging 4-13 record last year.