As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, teams are actively evaluating their rosters and positioning both current and future players to compete at the highest level.
The Jacksonville Jaguars enter this offseason as one of the league’s biggest surprises after a strong 2025 campaign. Now, they’ve set their sights on making a deeper postseason run.
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A key factor in that success was the spark provided by wide receiver and defensive back Travis Hunter. Although Hunter missed time in 2025, the Jaguars acquired him in a major draft-day trade.
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The plan initially called for Hunter to continue playing both sides of the ball, just as he did in college. That plan now appears to be changing.
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Travis Hunter
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Travis Hunter (12) runs on the field before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images
Recent reports indicate that Hunter will transition into a full-time cornerback. While he may still see some offensive snaps, his role on that side of the ball is expected to be minimal.
This shift not only alters Hunter’s long-term outlook—and his dynasty fantasy value—but also impacts the Jaguars’ draft strategy. Given the depth at wide receiver in this class, the team could reasonably target that position in the draft.
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As for Hunter, this development raises questions about how he will respond. He is a rare, generational talent who aimed to prove he could excel at both receiver and cornerback at the professional level.
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However, the Jaguars likely anticipated the physical toll would eventually become an issue. His season-ending injury offered a glimpse of that reality.
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Travis Hunter reacts after defeating the Kansas City Chiefs at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
While the idea of a full-time two-way player wasn’t outrageous, it was unlikely to prove sustainable over the long term.
The demands of professional football—long seasons and constant physical risk—make specialization the safer path. That reality also explains the high salaries at the sport’s highest level.
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It’s also clear that Hunter is currently more polished as a cornerback than as a wide receiver. His offensive skill set remains raw and would require significant development.
Oct 19, 2025; London, United Kingdom; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Davante Adams (17) makes a catch against Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Travis Hunter (12) during the second half of an NFL International Series game at Wembley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
That level of refinement is difficult to achieve while splitting practice reps between two positions. By focusing on cornerback, Hunter can now fully develop at his natural position.
The question remains: are the Jaguars making the right decision, or should Hunter have more control over how he’s used on the field?