Jaguars‘ Top Pick Travis Hunter Nursing Upper-Body Injury, Team Remains Optimistic for week 1
Jacksonville, FL – August 23, 2025 – Jacksonville Jaguars rookie Travis Hunter is currently managing an upper-body injury as the NFL regular season approaches, but the team is not expressing significant concern, according to Head Coach Liam Coen.The injury has sidelined Hunter from recent practices and will keep him out of the team’s final preseason game against the Miami Dolphins.
hunter, selected as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, initially sat out Jacksonville’s Week 2 preseason contest against the New Orleans Saints as a precautionary measure. He subsequently missed practice leading up to that game and will now be held out of the preseason finale.
“It was being smart about the next few weeks,” Coen said after a joint practice with the dolphins on Thursday, August 21. “The ultimate goal is Carolina [in Week 1]. That’s at the top of mind right now. We’re moving in the right direction.”
Coen has repeatedly emphasized the team’s focus on preparing Hunter for the regular season opener against the Carolina Panthers. He also stated that Hunter coudl play if needed, indicating the injury isn’t considered severe. The Jaguars have adopted a cautious approach, allowing Hunter to return to practice in a limited capacity earlier this week.The injury is notably noteworthy given Hunter’s anticipated role as a two-way player – expected to contribute on both offense and defense – a rare feat in modern professional football. While the specific nature of the upper-body issue remains undisclosed, the team appears confident in his recovery.
Hunter’s arrival in Jacksonville has generated significant excitement amongst fans and analysts. He was a standout performer at Colorado University under coach Deion Sanders, showcasing extraordinary talent as a cornerback and wide receiver. The Jaguars are hoping Hunter can replicate that success at the professional level, adding a dynamic element to both sides of the ball.The Jaguars will open their regular season schedule on the road against the Carolina Panthers. The team will continue to monitor Hunter’s progress and assess his availability as the Week 1 matchup draws closer.
