Davante Adams, one of the NFL’s premier wide receivers, has cast doubt on Travis Hunter’s ambitious plan to play both offense and defense at the professional level. As the Jacksonville Jaguars rookie attempts to replicate his college success as a two-way player, Adams questions the sustainability of such a role in the NFL.
Hunter, the Heisman Trophy-winning standout from Colorado, faces unprecedented challenges as he transitions to the league. While his athleticism is undeniable, Adams points out the physical toll of doubling his workload. Longer seasons, larger opponents, and the intensity of NFL competition raise concerns about Hunter’s durability and long-term career prospects.
Jacksonville Jaguars, Travis Hunter
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Travis Hunter (12) runs the ball during the second mandatory minicamp at Miller Electric Center Wednesday, June 11, 2025 in Jacksonville, Fla.
Adams specifically highlighted the risks Hunter might encounter on defense, citing his 6-foot-1, 185-pound frame as a potential disadvantage. The strain of tackling powerful players like Derrick Henry could amplify the likelihood of injuries. Even if Hunter excels in flashes, Adams suggests the cumulative wear and tear might limit his effectiveness over time.
On the Jaguars’ side, head coach Liam Coen has acknowledged the difficulty of balancing Hunter’s snaps. While Hunter’s versatility is a valuable asset, managing his workload will be critical to ensuring his health and development. Early indications suggest the team is cautiously integrating him into both roles to avoid overexertion.
Davante Adams Gets Real on Jacksonville Jaguars Rookie Travis Hunter
Los Angeles Rams, Davante Adams
May 28, 2025; Woodland Hills, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Davante Adams (17) participates in offensive drills during organized team activities at Rams Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Just recentlt, Adams dropped a reality check on Hunter as the rookie is about to play his first season in the league. This is detailed more in an article written by Austin Nivison for CBS Sports.
Adams recently joined “The Pivot” and was asked about Hunter’s aspirations to be a full-time player on both sides of the ball. Adams said he doesn’t think it’s realistic, at least if Hunter is trying to reach his maximum potential at both receiver and cornerback.
“I don’t even think it’s possible to do for real, not at a high level,” Adams said.
Now entering his 12th NFL season and first with the Los Angeles Rams, Adams said he has seen what other players go through as full-time players on offense and special teams. That handful of extra plays each game can create a lot of wear and tear, and Hunter will essentially double his snaps.
“It’s hard enough to cover a punt and then be on one side,” Adams said. “I haven’t done it. I’m not acting like I’m on kickoff or punt, but I see the dudes. … You see my yardage versus the yardage of someone who starts on offense and plays special teams as well. That’s just a lot of mileage, man. I’m not even concerned so much if he can do it over the course of a game or a season. It’s more like how long is his career gonna be if he plays that many snaps? All you’re doing is doubling your risk of injury.”
The other thing that made Adams worry about the long-term health of Hunter as a two-way player is his frame. Hunter is listed at 6-foot-1 and 185 pounds, and while that may allow him to make some freakishly athletic plays, it may be a hindrance when trying to bring down NFL-sized receivers and running backs.
“You gotta tackle Derrick Henry with that frame,” Adams said. “He’s athletic as hell, but he better do some ninja shit if he wants to use that (frame) to get him down.”
Hunter’s college success as a two-way player is remarkable, but the NFL presents a different level of physical and strategic complexity. Adams’ skepticism reflects the broader debate about whether such an approach can thrive in today’s game. Even with Hunter’s immense talent, the demands of playing at a high level on both sides of the ball remain unprecedented.
Jacksonville Jaguars, Travis Hunter, NFL
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Travis Hunter (12) waves to someone in the stands after the Jacksonville Jaguars’ mandatory minicamp Tuesday June 10, 2025 at the Miller Electric Center in Jacksonville, Fla. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Hunter to see if he can defy expectations. The Jaguars’ handling of his unique skill set may set the tone for future discussions about the viability of two-way players in the NFL.
Jacksonville Jaguars, Travis Hunter, NFL
Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Travis Hunter (12) jogs to his next drill during the Jacksonville Jaguars’ mandatory minicamp Tuesday June 10, 2025 at the Miller Electric Center in Jacksonville, Fla. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]
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