Rookie Travis Hunter’s fearless approach makes him one of the most intriguing players entering NFL Week 1

The Jacksonville Jaguars will open their 2025 NFL season this Sunday against the Carolina Panthers at EverBank Stadium, and all eyes will be on rookie sensation Travis Hunter. The Jaguars’ top draft pick is preparing to debut as a rare two-way player, bringing both offensive firepower and defensive grit to a team eager to bounce back from last year’s disappointing campaign.

Travis Hunter ready to shine in dual role for Jaguars

For weeks, the Jaguars have kept quiet on exactly how they plan to use Hunter in Week 1, but one thing is certain—he’s going to be on the field, and a lot. “I knew it was coming; it was only a matter of time,” Hunter said ahead of Sunday’s opener. “I have to just go play. There’s only one thing right now and that’s football.”

Drafted No. 2 overall, the Heisman Trophy winner from Colorado has been groomed to take on one of the most unique roles in the modern NFL.

He’s listed as a starting wide receiver and a backup cornerback, but insiders expect him to see significant snaps at both positions. Jaguars defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile praised Hunter’s development, saying, “He was well-coached in college, but he has made a really big jump and big progression from where he started to where is now.

He’s continuing to evolve. He’s doing a good job. He’s doing the extra. I’m impressed with that and it’s all from hard work.”

Hunter’s college numbers back up the hype. With the Buffaloes, he tallied 1,258 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns in 2024, while also grabbing four interceptions on defense. Few athletes in recent memory have combined that level of production on both sides of the ball.

Jaguars banking on Travis Hunter to spark offensive turnaround

Jacksonville struggled offensively last season, managing just four wins and ranking near the bottom in scoring. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence, limited by injuries, threw for only 11 touchdowns.

Now, with Hunter joining second-year receiver Brian Thomas Jr., the Jaguars suddenly have a receiving corps that can stretch defenses and open up new opportunities.Their Week 1 opponent, the Carolina Panthers, surrendered 31.4 points per game last year, leaving the door wide open for Hunter to make an immediate splash. His ability to draw attention from top defenders like Jaycee Horn could also free up Thomas, giving Lawrence the reliable options he lacked in 2024.Beyond offense, Hunter’s versatility as a defensive back could prove invaluable in key moments, especially against Carolina’s passing attack. Even if he isn’t a starting corner, his instincts and playmaking skills make him a weapon the Jaguars can deploy when the stakes are highest.As Jacksonville seeks its first season-opening win since 2023, Travis Hunter stands at the center of their hopes. The rookie’s debut isn’t just about proving he belongs—it’s about showing he can change the game on both sides of the ball.Also Read: Christian McCaffrey injury update: 49ers star limited in practice, odds shift in Seahawks’ favor