The Jacksonville Jaguars made a bold and ambitious move during the NFL draft that will undoubtedly shape the future of the franchise. Early in the pre-draft process, it became clear that the Jaguars had their eyes set on one of the most electrifying talents to come out of college football in recent years — Colorado's two-way star, Travis Hunter . However, even the Jaguars' general manager, James Gladstone, wasn't entirely sure they would be able to pull it off. Trading up from the No. 5 overall pick to secure Hunter seemed like a long shot.
Travis Hunter's dual role as a two-way star could redefine the Jaguars' strategy in 2025
James Gladstone admitted, "We engaged in those conversations with the idea that, 'Hey, this is more than likely going to be a stretch.' It's probably not going to be something that we'll be able to bring to life. Let's just go in with that expectation so we're not ultimately disappointed."
To their surprise, what initially seemed like an unattainable goal turned into a reality. Within a few weeks, the Jaguars successfully executed one of the boldest draft moves in franchise history, securing Hunter with their trade with the Cleveland Browns . The moment it all came together, Gladstone couldn’t contain his satisfaction: "And when things began to sort of grow and accelerate over the host of those conversations, obviously you become more firm in your stance and your pursuit. And so certainly happy with the way that it unfolded."
Hunter's versatility — the ability to play both wide receiver and cornerback — made him a rare commodity in the draft. The Jaguars believed the cost was worth it, seeing Hunter as a player deserving of a first-round pick at either position. "He's somebody who is deserving of a first-round draft pick as a wide receiver, and he is worthy of a first-round draft pick as a corner," Gladstone noted. "Certainly look forward to each of those elements showing themselves over the next few years while he's under his rookie contract."
But the Jaguars’ aggressive move wasn’t just about the pick. It was a statement. By bringing in Hunter, a player who had electrified college football, they were sending a message to the league and their fans. The Heisman Trophy winner had made his mark as arguably the most dynamic and versatile player in college football over the last decade. His arrival in Jacksonville wasn’t just about football — it was a red-carpet moment for a young star with a massive potential to be one of the league's most marketable names.
Hunter’s rare dual-threat ability at wide receiver and cornerback fits seamlessly into the Jaguars' vision for the future. "Travis Hunter, he embodies belief," said Gladstone, speaking to local Jacksonville media. "He’s a rare person, he’s a rare player. He’s also a reminder that the boundaries of the game of football were built to be challenged."
Hunter’s decision to insist on playing both ways — on offense as a wide receiver and defense as a cornerback — also represents a shift in how the game is played at the highest level. In an era where specialization is often seen as the key to success, Hunter's willingness to challenge these boundaries is a bold statement. He played an astounding 2,625 snaps over two seasons at Colorado, leading the FBS in both 2023 and 2024. Now, in the NFL, he will attempt to break new ground.
The comparisons to MLB's Shohei Ohtani — the only player in professional sports who currently excels in two completely different roles — have already started to surface. Many are asking, "Can Travis Hunter be the next Chuck Bednarik?" The last player to successfully play both offense and defense in the NFL was Bednarik, who retired in 1962. No player has attempted to pull it off since then — until now. Hunter, the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner, could become the first player in 63 years to attempt such a feat.
Before the draft, Hunter made his expectations clear in an interview with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. "He’d better say wide receiver and DB. I need him to say wide receiver and DB," Hunter joked, solidifying his commitment to playing both positions. It’s clear that he’s ready for the challenge, and the Jaguars are fully behind him. In fact, the team has embraced Hunter’s vision for his career. As Gladstone was heard telling Hunter in a candid conversation shared online, "We got you because we’re supporting you. You’ve got a bold-a– vision for what you want to do on planet Earth, and we’ve got a bold-a– vision for you."
Hunter, ever confident, responded with trust: "I can tell you, bold move. I trust you, I believe you."
However, the decision to let Hunter play both offense and defense comes with its risks. Playing both positions could put additional strain on his body and increase the likelihood of injury, a risk that every player must weigh. But for now, the 21-year-old has the offseason to prepare, and once the season begins, it will be fascinating to see how he handles the demands of playing two positions in the most competitive football league in the world.
As the 2024 NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on Travis Hunter. The Jaguars have not only secured a remarkable talent but have also positioned themselves to challenge the very fabric of modern football. Only time will tell if Hunter can become the next groundbreaking player in NFL history, but one thing is for certain — his journey will be one to watch.
Also Read: Are things okay between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce? NFL star steps out for another Las Vegas outing without the pop star
Travis Hunter's dual role as a two-way star could redefine the Jaguars' strategy in 2025
James Gladstone admitted, "We engaged in those conversations with the idea that, 'Hey, this is more than likely going to be a stretch.' It's probably not going to be something that we'll be able to bring to life. Let's just go in with that expectation so we're not ultimately disappointed."
To their surprise, what initially seemed like an unattainable goal turned into a reality. Within a few weeks, the Jaguars successfully executed one of the boldest draft moves in franchise history, securing Hunter with their trade with the Cleveland Browns . The moment it all came together, Gladstone couldn’t contain his satisfaction: "And when things began to sort of grow and accelerate over the host of those conversations, obviously you become more firm in your stance and your pursuit. And so certainly happy with the way that it unfolded."
Hunter's versatility — the ability to play both wide receiver and cornerback — made him a rare commodity in the draft. The Jaguars believed the cost was worth it, seeing Hunter as a player deserving of a first-round pick at either position. "He's somebody who is deserving of a first-round draft pick as a wide receiver, and he is worthy of a first-round draft pick as a corner," Gladstone noted. "Certainly look forward to each of those elements showing themselves over the next few years while he's under his rookie contract."
But the Jaguars’ aggressive move wasn’t just about the pick. It was a statement. By bringing in Hunter, a player who had electrified college football, they were sending a message to the league and their fans. The Heisman Trophy winner had made his mark as arguably the most dynamic and versatile player in college football over the last decade. His arrival in Jacksonville wasn’t just about football — it was a red-carpet moment for a young star with a massive potential to be one of the league's most marketable names.
Hunter’s rare dual-threat ability at wide receiver and cornerback fits seamlessly into the Jaguars' vision for the future. "Travis Hunter, he embodies belief," said Gladstone, speaking to local Jacksonville media. "He’s a rare person, he’s a rare player. He’s also a reminder that the boundaries of the game of football were built to be challenged."
Hunter’s decision to insist on playing both ways — on offense as a wide receiver and defense as a cornerback — also represents a shift in how the game is played at the highest level. In an era where specialization is often seen as the key to success, Hunter's willingness to challenge these boundaries is a bold statement. He played an astounding 2,625 snaps over two seasons at Colorado, leading the FBS in both 2023 and 2024. Now, in the NFL, he will attempt to break new ground.
The comparisons to MLB's Shohei Ohtani — the only player in professional sports who currently excels in two completely different roles — have already started to surface. Many are asking, "Can Travis Hunter be the next Chuck Bednarik?" The last player to successfully play both offense and defense in the NFL was Bednarik, who retired in 1962. No player has attempted to pull it off since then — until now. Hunter, the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner, could become the first player in 63 years to attempt such a feat.
Before the draft, Hunter made his expectations clear in an interview with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. "He’d better say wide receiver and DB. I need him to say wide receiver and DB," Hunter joked, solidifying his commitment to playing both positions. It’s clear that he’s ready for the challenge, and the Jaguars are fully behind him. In fact, the team has embraced Hunter’s vision for his career. As Gladstone was heard telling Hunter in a candid conversation shared online, "We got you because we’re supporting you. You’ve got a bold-a– vision for what you want to do on planet Earth, and we’ve got a bold-a– vision for you."
Hunter, ever confident, responded with trust: "I can tell you, bold move. I trust you, I believe you."
However, the decision to let Hunter play both offense and defense comes with its risks. Playing both positions could put additional strain on his body and increase the likelihood of injury, a risk that every player must weigh. But for now, the 21-year-old has the offseason to prepare, and once the season begins, it will be fascinating to see how he handles the demands of playing two positions in the most competitive football league in the world.
As the 2024 NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on Travis Hunter. The Jaguars have not only secured a remarkable talent but have also positioned themselves to challenge the very fabric of modern football. Only time will tell if Hunter can become the next groundbreaking player in NFL history, but one thing is for certain — his journey will be one to watch.
Also Read: Are things okay between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce? NFL star steps out for another Las Vegas outing without the pop star
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