Full Breakdown
Jaguars Confirm Travis Hunter Will Play Both Wide Receiver and Cornerback in 2026
5/6/2026, 11:01:01 PM
Travis Hunter Set to Play Both Ways in 2026
Jaguars GM James Gladstone confirmed that rookie Travis Hunter will line up on both offense and defense in the 2026 season, with a projected increase in cornerback snaps.
Background & Context
Drafted as a two-way prospect, Hunter appeared in seven games before a season-ending LCL tear, posting 28 catches for 298 yards, a touchdown and 15 tackles. The Jaguars’ loss of cornerback Greg Newsome in free agency left a starting vacancy.
Key Figures & Groups
GM James Gladstone and head coach Liam Coen direct Hunter’s usage. Defensive end Josh Hines-Allen noted potential pass-rush benefits from Hunter at corner. Former NFL star Charles Woodson voiced durability concerns. Wide-receiver teammates Brian Thomas Jr., Jakobi Meyers and Parker Washington will share receiving duties.
Data & Statistics
2024 rookie season: 324 offensive snaps, 162 defensive snaps (7 games); 28 receptions, 298 yards, 1 TD; 15 tackles. College (2024): 688 defensive, 672 offensive snaps. Cornerback depth reduced after Newsome’s departure.
Official Statements & Responses
Gladstone told The Rich Eisen Show that Hunter will continue to line up on both offense and defense and that the team expects an increase in his cornerback usage. He added that Hunter should be a ‘full go’ for training camp. Coen affirmed that the plan has not changed and promised opportunities on both sides of the football. Both linked the decision to roster construction and cornerback depth needs.
Criticism & Opposition
Woodson warned that a two-way role could “age him in dog years” and that “your body’s not going to hold up,” suggesting the plan may shorten Hunter’s career and reflecting broader NFL skepticism.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Some reports label Hunter’s offensive role as “part-time,” while Gladstone’s “full-go” comment implies a larger role, leaving snap distribution unclear. Limited offseason participation adds uncertainty about his readiness.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He is set to play both sides of the ball.” — James Gladstone, General Manager
- “Absolutely not,” — James Gladstone, on whether Hunter would stop playing both ways
- “He's going to play both sides of the football just as we drafted him to do.” — Liam Coen, Head Coach
- “Your body's not going to hold up. If he was to try to do that in the NFL, he'll age in dog years and it'll be over before you know it.” — Charles Woodson, former cornerback
Why It Matters
Hunter’s two-way role helps the Jaguars address a cornerback vacancy while preserving a receiving option, potentially influencing future roster designs. The physical demand, however, could jeopardize defensive stability and offensive output if injuries occur.
What’s Next
The Jaguars will assess Hunter’s health in training camp, with preseason games set to reveal his snap split. The team aims to lock in the starting cornerback lineup before the season opener.
