The Jacksonville Jaguars have confirmed that rookie sensation Travis Hunter will play both offense and defense during their preseason opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers on March 15, 2024. This decision marks a significant step in the Jaguars’ strategy to evaluate the No. 2 overall pick’s versatility and adaptability at the professional level.
Head coach Liam Coen announced on Thursday that the team’s starters, including Hunter, will see action this Saturday. Hunter, who gained national attention as a Heisman winner, will split his time between playing as a receiver and as a cornerback. This dual role has been a focal point throughout the offseason, reflecting the coaching staff’s confidence in his abilities.
The Jaguars have not set a fixed number of snaps for Hunter at either position, allowing for flexibility based on matchups and his performance. This week-to-week approach will enable the team to optimize his contributions, assessing how well he can manage the demands of a two-way role in the NFL.
As the Jaguars prepare for the preseason game, Hunter is listed as a starting receiver alongside teammates Brian Thomas Jr. and Dyami Brown. On defense, he is positioned as a backup to Jourdan Lewis and Tyson Campbell at cornerback. Given the typical game strategy, it is expected that Hunter will see considerable action on the defensive side as well.
The Steelers, under head coach Mike Tomlin, plan to rest several of their starters, contrasting the Jaguars’ approach. This sets the stage for Hunter to showcase his skills against a potentially less experienced defensive lineup.
The Jaguars’ strategy to leverage Hunter in both positions underscores their commitment to maximizing his impact on the field. As the team continues to refine their game plan leading into the regular season, Hunter’s performance will be closely monitored. His ability to perform effectively in this dual capacity could significantly influence Jacksonville’s offensive and defensive tactics moving forward.
Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how Hunter adapts to this unique challenge, as his development remains a key storyline in the Jaguars’ preseason journey.
