Jaguars‘ Hunter Usage Questioned as Rookie Production Lags
JACKSONVILLE, FL – The Jacksonville Jaguars’ bold move to trade up for Travis Hunter in the 2024 NFL Draft is facing increased scrutiny as the rookie’s impact has been diluted by snaps on both sides of the ball. While the team initially envisioned Hunter as a two-way threat, his current usage is hindering his potential to excel at either receiver or cornerback, raising questions about the return on a significant draft investment.
The Jaguars surrendered a substantial package to acquire Hunter – the fifth overall pick in 2025, a first-round pick in 2026, a second-round pick in 2025 (36th overall), and a fourth-round pick in 2025 (126th overall), along with a 2025 fourth-round pick (104th overall) and a 2025 sixth-round pick (200th overall) to the Browns – believing they were acquiring two players in one. Through six games, Hunter has appeared on 63 percent of offensive snaps and 39 percent of defensive snaps, effectively splitting his focus and limiting opportunities for significant contributions.
Currently, Hunter has recorded 20 receptions for 197 yards with no touchdowns, and only seven of his catches have resulted in first downs. Defensively, he has yet to record an interception and has one forced fumble. These numbers fall short of expectations for a player selected second overall.
Prior to the season, Jaguars offensive coordinator Liam Coen expressed optimism about Hunter’s potential to contend for both Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. However, current betting odds reflect a diminished outlook, with Hunter listed at 90-1 to win OROY and 40-1 for DROY.
Analysts suggest focusing Hunter’s progress at a single position – either full-time receiver with occasional defensive snaps,or vice versa – would maximize his impact and justify the substantial draft capital expended to acquire him. The team now faces a critical decision: continue with the current split usage, or commit to a specialized role for Hunter to unlock his full potential.
