Hall of Fame cornerback Champ Bailey just dropped some serious praise on Jacksonville’s Travis Hunter, calling him a future “Top 5” corner in the NFL “within no time” after Hunter’s killer performance against the Bengals on Sunday. When a legend like Bailey speaks about a young player like that, you know it’s not just talk, it’s a scouting report from the absolute best.
Hunter Shut Down The Bengals, And The Stats Don’t Lie
Hunter’s play against the Cincinnati offense was seriously sticky in coverage, straight up limiting the damage. He allowed just four receptions on seven targets, and those went for a measly 26 total yards. The guy also racked up two pass breakups, and when quarterbacks dared to target him, their passer rating was a pitiful 58.2. You don’t put up numbers like that by accident. Bailey saw it too, saying on ‘Up & Adams,’ “You can see him getting comfortable with playing outside… The dude is a playmaker.” It’s clear Hunter is finding his stride and making his presence felt every single down.
Hall of Famer Sees Rare Talent In Hunter
Bailey isn’t just a casual observer here, he’s one of Hunter’s biggest fans, and he sees some real parallels in their careers. Bailey, who also had opportunities to play offense, appreciates Hunter’s two-way talent. However, the HOFer is adamant that Hunter needs to lock down the cornerback position first before diving deeper into an offensive role. “To have corners with his ball skills and athleticism, it’s rare,” Bailey emphasized. “It’s rare to have somebody that dialed in to football play corner.” Through four games this season, Hunter is proving Bailey right, allowing a completion rate of just 59% on 17 targets. He’s already got three pass breakups and an interception, with that same 58.2 passer rating when targeted.
Bailey’s belief that Hunter can flourish quickly and establish himself as one of the game’s elite corners is a huge statement from someone who knows what “elite” looks like. Hunter’s early season stats back up the hype, showing he’s not just flashes of brilliance, but consistent, high-level play. The league better be watching, because if Bailey’s prediction holds true, Travis Hunter is about to be a problem for opposing offenses for a long, long time.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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