Jaguars Rookie Travis Hunter Reveals the Challenging Part of Playing Offense as a 2-Way Player in NFL

The Jacksonville Jaguars made a bold move in the 2025 NFL Draft, trading up to the No. 2 overall pick to select two-way phenom Travis Hunter. They sent the No. 5 pick, No. 36 pick, No. 126 pick and a 2026 first-round selection to the Cleveland Browns in exchange.

The Tennessee Titans’ need at quarterback made Cam Ward an easy selection at No. 1 overall, but most experts regarded Hunter as the most talented player in the draft. His ability to excel at wide receiver and cornerback adds a unique dimension to Jacksonville’s roster, and the franchise is betting on him to redefine positional versatility in the NFL.

However, that process will not come without hurdles. While some players have dipped their toes into playing on both sides of the ball, Hunter aspires to be the first full-time two-way player in modern NFL history. He recently shared his thoughts on the challenges that await him.

Travis Hunter Talks Learning Offensive and Defensive Playbooks

Playing on both sides of the ball will take a physical toll on Hunter, but he is equally focused on the mental aspect. He reflected on his introduction to the NFL, including an overlooked challenge that is often not discussed.

Hunter says there isn’t much of a difference between learning two playbooks in college and the pros. However, he noted that learning the offense has been more difficult than grasping the defensive playbook.

“[It’s] not so much different,” Hunter stated after rookie minicamp. “You just have to get used to it. A lot of different types of calls, but other than that, the defense is pretty easy. You just have to get used to the offense.”

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When asked what made learning the offense more challenging, Hunter said it was “just longer calls and concepts are different.”

That may explain why Hunter is currently “majoring in offense, minoring in defense” to start his career. The team wants to put the generational talent in the best position to succeed, and they believe that this starts on offense.

Hunter Looking to Become First Full-Time 2-Way NFL Player in Decades

While a few NFL players have played on both sides of the ball, Hunter is attempting to achieve something that hasn’t been seen in decades. He hopes to become the first full-time offensive and defensive player in the NFL since Hall of Fame center and linebacker Chuck Bednarik retired in 1962.

Since then, plenty of athletes have played minor roles on both sides of the ball, including Champ Bailey, J.J. Watt, Mike Vrabel and Hunter’s father-figure and former head coach, Deion Sanders. Even this offseason, the Green Bay Packers have been giving wide receiver Bo Melton snaps at defensive back.

However, none of those greats have accomplished what Hunter aims to do. Once he masters his playbook, the NFL world will surely take notice.