The Jacksonville Jaguars shocked the 2025 NFL Draft by trading up to the No. 2 spot to land one of the most unique prospects in recent history — Travis Hunter. Head coach Liam Coen has now revealed how the team plans to deploy the Heisman Trophy winner in his rookie campaign.
Liam Coen Details Rookie Season Plans for Jaguars’ No. 2 Pick Travis Hunter
“He’ll play primarily on offense to start,” Coen said, putting to rest speculation about whether Hunter would immediately play both ways. Despite being touted as the best cornerback and wide receiver in the class, Coen emphasized the Jaguars’ intention to integrate Hunter gradually, starting with his offensive impact.
Coen praised Hunter’s ball skills and overall playmaking ability, highlighting his competitive nature. “He works hard, competes, and carries himself the right way,” Coen said, further adding, “We’re looking for guys who can win on their own.”
HC Liam Cohen on Travis Hunter's Role: "he'll play primarily on offense to start." pic.twitter.com/oaq0dpkvUY
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Hunter is expected to bring immediate dynamism alongside 2024 first-rounder Brian Thomas Jr., who had a breakout season. Coen expressed how impressed he was with Thomas and believes pairing the two will challenge defenses significantly.
“Hunter adds another layer,” Coen remarked, describing the dual-threat rookie as a matchup nightmare.
General manager James Gladstone echoed that sentiment, noting how Hunter’s rare talent shifted the team’s strategy. Though Jacksonville didn’t initially plan to target him, “as the process unfolded, it became more clear that Hunter was the right player,” he said.
The Jaguars executed a blockbuster deal with the team holding the No. 2 pick, surrendering their No. 5, No. 36, and No. 126 picks and a 2026 first-rounder in exchange for No. 2, No. 104, and No. 200. The move signals a new era under Coen, Gladstone, and EVP Tony Boselli.
Despite Hunter not speaking with the Jaguars since the NFL Combine, Gladstone stated, “That was a moment that resonated with us.” The team also leaned heavily on “sourced intel” when finalizing their evaluation.
Hunter, for his part, is enthusiastic about the opportunity. “They told me they are going to go out there and let me do what I do,” he said, describing how both coordinators reached out after the pick. “I am going to go out there and do what I can do.”
Both quarterback Trevor Lawrence and star linebacker Josh Hines-Allen reportedly texted Coen immediately after the pick to share their excitement.
With Hunter poised to start on offense and potential defensive reps down the line, the Jaguars are building around versatility, explosiveness, and a clear vision. “This was certainly a statement for how we plan to move,” said Gladstone — and that move begins with Travis Hunter.
