Introduction to the NFL Draft
The Jacksonville Jaguars made a stunning move in the NFL draft by trading up to select two-way superstar Travis Hunter with the No. 2 pick. This move sets the tone for a new regime featuring first-time general manager James Gladstone, first-time head coach Liam Coen, and first-time executive vice president Tony Boselli.
The Trade Details
The Jaguars gave up four picks, including second- and fourth-rounders this year and their 2026 first-rounder, to land one of the most intriguing NFL prospects in draft history. In return, they received a fourth-rounder and a sixth-rounder from the Browns, with both picks coming in this draft. Gladstone said the sides first discussed a potential trade early this month and had the framework in place two weeks ago.
Travis Hunter’s Potential
Gladstone views Hunter as someone who can alter the sport itself, saying, "There are players that you can target and acquire who alter the trajectory of a game. There are very few, and it’s rare to be able to target and prioritize a player who can alter the sport itself. And Travis is somebody that we view has the potential to do that." Hunter will join franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence and Pro Bowl receiver Brian Thomas Jr. to create the core of Coen’s offense — and maybe his defense, too.
Playing Both Sides of the Ball
Hunter told NFL teams he plans to play both sides of the ball as a pro. The Jaguars envision him primarily as a receiver — he will start opposite Thomas and should give Lawrence another dynamic playmaker — but plan to have defensive packages for him. Deion Sanders, who played defensive back and receiver during his Pro Football Hall of Fame career, coached Hunter at Jackson State and Colorado and had no qualms about playing him both ways.
Hunter’s College Performance
Hunter played a whopping 1,461 snaps, according to Pro Football Focus. By comparison, Denver cornerback Patrick Surtain II, voted the NFL’s defensive player of the year, played 978 snaps over 17 games — all on defense. Last season, Hunter caught 96 passes for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns and notched 35 tackles, 11 pass breakups, eight forced incompletions, and four interceptions while allowing just one touchdown.
The Jaguars’ Plan for Hunter
Gladstone said, "For the start, our plan there is to have a heavier dose of offense early, knowing his more natural position is on defense. Offense certainly requires a lot of nuance, a lot of adjustments, and so I want to make sure he gets off to a good start in that sort of mental frame of mind. And then as we continue to build and get on the grass and even out that balance as time goes on." The Jaguars are looking forward to onboarding Hunter and getting the most out of him.
Conclusion
The Jacksonville Jaguars’ decision to trade up and select Travis Hunter is a bold move that could pay off in a big way. With his ability to play both sides of the ball, Hunter has the potential to be a game-changer in the NFL. The Jaguars’ new regime is excited to have him on board and is looking forward to seeing what he can do on the field.
FAQs
- Q: Who did the Jacksonville Jaguars select with the No. 2 pick in the NFL draft?
A: The Jacksonville Jaguars selected two-way superstar Travis Hunter with the No. 2 pick. - Q: What did the Jaguars give up in the trade to select Hunter?
A: The Jaguars gave up four picks, including second- and fourth-rounders this year and their 2026 first-rounder. - Q: Does Hunter plan to play both sides of the ball in the NFL?
A: Yes, Hunter told NFL teams he plans to play both sides of the ball as a pro. - Q: How many snaps did Hunter play in college?
A: Hunter played a whopping 1,461 snaps, according to Pro Football Focus. - Q: What are the Jaguars’ plans for Hunter’s playing time?
A: The Jaguars plan to have a heavier dose of offense early, with the possibility of adding defensive packages as time goes on.
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