The Jacksonville Jaguars entered the 2025 offseason with pressure mounting. After falling short of expectations in 2024, the team knew it had to do more than just tweak the roster—it had to make bold moves. That mindset became reality when Jacksonville traded up to the No. 2 overall pick and selected one of the most electrifying talents the draft has seen in years: Travis Hunter.
The former Colorado star was a known commodity heading into the NFL Draft, with his rare ability to play both wide receiver and cornerback at a high level. Hunter wasn’t just a highlight machine—he was a culture-shifter. His selection immediately sent a message: the Jaguars weren’t just aiming to compete; they were aiming to win big.
Hunter’s arrival was met with widespread acclaim. ESPN’s Pamela Maldonado called it her favorite pick of the draft, emphasizing the impact of his dual-threat versatility. “This trade up was bold and exactly what this team needed,” she said. “Hunter is a unicorn with his ability to be a shutdown corner and playmaker. His infectious energy could reinvigorate Jacksonville’s entire locker room.”
Doubts about whether he can truly succeed playing both ways in the NFL are understandable. After all, no one since the likes of Deion Sanders has pulled it off long-term. But the Jaguars aren’t asking Hunter to be a full-time two-way player immediately. They’re being deliberate. Smart. Strategic.
Their plan is to ease him in primarily at wide receiver—where his explosiveness and route running can immediately elevate the passing game—while progressively working him into the defense as the season approaches. It’s a careful balance between unlocking his potential and not overloading a rookie with too much, too soon.
And they don’t need to rush. Jacksonville upgraded at both wide receiver and cornerback during the offseason, meaning Hunter won’t be thrust into a savior role on Day 1. This gives the 2024 Heisman winner the chance to adapt to the league without the weight of carrying a franchise alone.
Pro Football Focus’ Mason Cameron called him a “generational talent,” citing coverage and receiving grades above 89.0 while logging over 1,500 snaps in just 13 games. That kind of production at the college level is unheard of—especially from a player asked to do so much on both sides of the ball.
Critics argue that Jacksonville paid too steep a price to move up from No. 5 to No. 2 to get him, giving up a second-rounder this year and a first in 2026. But that debate will quickly evaporate if Hunter lives up to the hype. You don’t hesitate on potential superstars. You act.
What sets this move apart isn’t just the talent—it’s the fit. Hunter made it clear before the draft that he wouldn’t play for a team unwilling to let him play both ways. Jacksonville didn’t just accept that—they embraced it. They had a vision for him before the draft card was even turned in.
That kind of preparation and foresight speaks volumes. The Jaguars aren’t making this up as they go. They believe in their coaching staff, their development process, and most importantly, in Hunter’s ability to be special.
The good news for the Jags is that they don’t need Travis Hunter to be a miracle worker on Day 1. With quarterback Trevor Lawrence, edge rusher Josh Allen, and a strengthened roster around him, the team has plenty of proven contributors. Hunter can grow into greatness.
If he does—and all signs point that he will—this bold trade will be remembered not as a risk, but as a franchise-altering masterstroke.