Albert Breer dropped a bomb about Travis Hunter, and it sounds like the Jacksonville Jaguars are ready to ride with it. Turns out the two-way phenom is really dialing in on defense, with reports saying he’s turned his focus to becoming a “shutdown corner.” This is a big deal, especially after his rookie season ended early after just seven games and his usage at cornerback was a little sporadic. We didn’t get a full picture of what he could truly do on both sides of the ball then.
Why The Jaguars Desperately Need A Defensive Master
The Jaguars *need* this to happen, too. Their pass defense was rough last season, clocking in at a dismal 21st in yards allowed with 218.1 per game. Oof. To make matters worse, Greg Newsome II, who started 11 games after a midseason trade from the Cleveland Browns, bounced as a free agent. That left a massive void at cornerback, exactly where Hunter is apparently turning his full attention. Jacksonville could seriously use an elite defender out wide to shore things up.
Coen’s Remarks Confirm The CB-First Strategy
Even Coach Liam Coen hinted at this shift back in August on The Rich Eisen Show. He confirmed “there’s been a steady increase in his defensive work” and “a lot of detail and time-on-task this offseason.” While he promised “a package on offense” to get Hunter opportunities, Coen’s remarks definitely reinforce the idea that the Jaguars see Hunter as a cornerback first, receiver second. This actually lines up with how evaluators viewed him before the 2025 NFL draft, even comparing him to an eight-time Pro Bowler like Patrick Peterson.
There’s also a pragmatic side to this. The Jaguars’ receiving corps looks pretty solid with Parker Washington taking a big third-year step, Brian Thomas Jr. expected to rebound after going backward a bit in 2025, and Jakobi Meyers holding it down as a very good No. 3 option. They’re in a good spot there. The secondary, however, is where they’re truly hurting. So, if you’re watching the Jaguars, don’t be shocked to see a clear split in where Hunter is lining up week after week. It’s all about making him that elite defender the Jaguars desperately need, and if he delivers, it could totally change their defense.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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