Foundational pieces like Travis Hunter, the future of the Jaguars. He’s written prints all over the pages in preseason training camp along with his jaw-dropping flexibility. He has flashed big time play ability on both sides of the ball through the first four practices. His addition is doing wonders to help charge the team’s preparation for the upcoming winter campaign. Hunter spent the initial two practices focusing solely on offensive plays, accumulating 36 snaps before transitioning entirely to defense for the next two, where he recorded 47 snaps. His performance will be key as he continues to compete for a place on the final 53-man roster.
Fowler has made it clear that Hunter’s offseason training has been effective. He’s done a great job turning up his intensity and focus on both sides of the ball. During red zone drills, he caught two touchdown passes from quarterback Trevor Lawrence, solidifying his status as a key player in the team’s offensive strategy. Hunter has been a star in reception and deflection. He would go on to tally a total of 83 snaps in both 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 team drills, wow’ing observers with his impressive pass break-up ability along the way.
A Versatile Player
Travis Hunter’s path to training camp has always been illustrated by his versatility. Early on, he leaned heavily on offense. This is par for the course with players as they learn the ins and outs of the receiver position. As Coach Liam Coen explained, “Offense is usually something that takes a little bit longer to pick up, especially at receiver. Hunter’s commitment to learning both positions has been on full display.
Hunter’s big move to the other side of the ball involved sitting in on defensive meetings and putting their instruction into practice during spring practices. This dual-focus approach is no accident and is a smart decision by Coach Coen, who saw Hunter’s potential from day one. “That’s certainly what we have to continue to work toward going into training camp,” Coen said of Hunter’s two-way role. “He doesn’t want to do it. It’s not like it’s something that he can’t do.”
Besides his offensive ability, Hunter’s defensive skills have stood out during practices. He physically batted down a short pass intended for wideout Josh Cephus. This play was a great reminder of his otherworldly ability on the defensive end.
Performance Highlights
From Hunter’s impressive displays at training camp to his game-changing interceptions, we’ve got the best of all of it right here. Defensively, he’s given up only three catches on three targets, proving to be efficient in his own right on the receiving side of things. Both touchdown catches from Trevor Lawrence in red zone drills illustrate his ability to create separation and make crucial plays when it matters most.
Hunter’s video-game-like numbers are a testament to his preparation and work ethic over the last offseason. To meet the demands of both roles, his participation in demanding and sometimes truly brutal drills honed his body and mind for that work. It’s that commitment that hasn’t gone unnoticed by his newfound teammates and coaches. Even quarterback Trevor Lawrence made it clear how invaluable these early practices were. He’s confident they’re providing a good foundation for the offensive line. Lawrence put the approach going into camp this way, “Some of the questions were layups, but there were some great questions too.”
Hunter’s electric, dominant performance certainly has bolstered his case for a roster spot. It has highlighted the wealth of talent behind the starter and the depth across the Jaguars’ roster. On offense, his talent jumps out immediately. This would give the new coaching staff even more flexibility as they work to put together their final roster.
The Road Ahead
As training camp goes on, Hunter’s role will develop further. The Jaguars’ biggest challenge will be keeping him healthy, but unlocking the potential of a full dual-threat player. Coach Coen underscored the importance of balancing Hunter’s workload: “We have to protect him from himself at times as well, and make sure we get out of this phase healthy.”
The next few weeks will be crucial for Hunter as he looks to cement a spot on the final roster. His performance so far is testament that he has the grit and talent to make it big at this level. The Jaguars coaching staff still expects him to make significant contributions and have a serious impact once the regular season begins.
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