Travis Hunter has the NFL world divided on his two-way potential. The Jacksonville Jaguars' rookie is likely to keep both wide receiver and cornerback duties in the NFL.
While some believe that the 22-year-old will be able to live up to his dual role just like he did during his college days, many doubt the possibility in a league where he will go up against the greats of the game.
The Kansas City Chiefs' tight end, Travis Kelce, shared a bold plan the NFL teams can use to stop Hunter during an episode of the "Bussin' With The Boys" show.
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (left) and Jacksonville Jaguars rookie Travis Hunter (right).
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (left) and Jacksonville Jaguars rookie Travis Hunter (right).
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images; Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union
"Teams are going to be going after him. They’re going to try and make his day miserable... Dude, if he plays corner, they’re just going to run deep balls at him all day," he said.
"The wide receivers just take off on him all day. Just to try to get him tired. Why wouldn’t you just attack him that way?"
Former NFL head coach Eric Mangini doesn't seem to be on the same page with Kelce. He made an appearance on the "Breakfast Ball" podcast and explained the flaw in Kelce's plan.
“I don’t think that plan is necessarily going to work. It’s one of those things where, okay, if Travis Hunter is covering their best receiver, you’re going to tell your best receiver, ‘Hey, go run a go route all day. You’re a decoy. We’re not going to throw you the ball.’ You’re not going to know where he’s going to be defensively,” Mangini said.
Hunter participated in both offensive and defensive drills in the mandatory minicamp and OTAs last week. The Jaguars haven't clarified how they will use their rookie, labeling it a situation-based decision.
Jacksonville gave up tons of draft capital to trade up and acquire Hunter. While it might be ideal for them to keep him on the field for as many snaps as possible, the coaching staff is aware of the consequences.
Hunter seems to be enjoying his transition into the NFL. He has been confident about his two-way potential since the NFL Combine. It remains to be seen if he proves his worth to the Jaguars and shuts his critics while managing his health.