Travis Hunter was selected second overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars after a draft-day trade to acquire the pick. He enters the professional level after a collegiate career that saw him leave his mark in many ways, including leading the Colorado Buffaloes to success in 2024 while taking home the Heisman Trophy.
The two-way superstar has received nothing but glowing reviews from his teammates and coaches. That continued on Tuesday, May 20, as the 2024 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year, Arik Armstead — who announced Hunter’s selection — sang his praises. The pass rusher revealed that he believes the rookie star teammate is a “can’t miss” prospect.
Arik Armstead Sings Travis Hunter’s Praises Amid OTAs
The Jaguars began organized team activities on Monday, May 19. While there were questions about how Hunter would be used after starring on both sides of the ball for the Buffaloes in college, all signs point to him being given the opportunity to do the same in the NFL.
Armstead appeared on a May 20 edition of “Good Morning Football,” where he labeled Hunter as the best player in the draft. He claimed he has watched his new teammate since high school.
“In terms of Travis, I think we’re in rare air. He’s a player who would have been a first-round pick at two different positions — cornerback and wide receiver. So, I really feel like it’s a can’t-miss,” Armstead said.
“Coach Liam [Coen] is going to have his plan for him. I think the plan, right now, is to start him off on offense, let him get adjusted, and then bring him into the defensive fold as we get going. So, I think they have a great plan for him, and I think we’re all excited just to see the type of impact he can have.”
Walter Payton Man of the Year Winner @arikarmstead comes on the show to talk about his new @Jaguars teammate Travis Hunter and what to expect from his @nflnetwork Players Choice beginning at 2pm ET 👇 pic.twitter.com/yGTBGPyGoa
— Good Morning Football (@gmfb)
While many have questioned how his body will hold up, Hunter will seemingly be given every opportunity to contribute on both sides of the ball. He thrived in both roles at the collegiate level en route to winning the Heisman Trophy and having the most decorated season in college football history.
His 2024 campaign was a huge testament to the skill set he brings to the table. After 13 games, he made 96 receptions for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns. On defense, he made 36 tackles, 11 pass deflections, and four interceptions. His efforts helped Colorado finish with a 9-4 record, their first winning season since 2020.
Jacksonville could certainly use the help on both sides of the ball after a rough 2024 season. Their offense ranked just 18th in the league, according to PFSN’s Offense+ metric. Their defense was much worse, ranking 31st in the league, according to PFSN’s Defense+ metric. Hunter will look to help the Jaguars turn things around and return to the postseason for the first time since 2022.