As the start of the NFL regular season draws closer, the Jacksonville Jaguars are offering more insight into how their team plans to utilize the rookie Travis Hunter. Hunter, who was a two-way star at Jackson State and Colorado, was listed as the starting wide receiver and the backup cornerback on the Jaguars’ first official depth chart. This decision has sparked a debate about the feasibility of Hunter taking a significant number of snaps on both offense and defense at the professional level.
As part of this discussion, NFL All-Pro receiver Davante Adams has raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of the team’s plan. During a recent appearance on “The Pivot” podcast, Adams expressed worries about the physical toll that such a dual role might take on a rookie. ‘I don’t even think it’s possible to do. Not at a high, level. It’s hard enough to go cover a punt and then be on one side,’ Adams said. He emphasized that the risk of injury would be doubled if Hunter were to play extensively on both sides of the ball. Adams made it clear that he hopes Hunter can avoid any injury, but he is cautious about what the Heisman winner will face when playing defense against NFL players.
‘I don’t wish any of that on him. I hope he can play an injury-free season and go ball out. But this is the reality. It’s already 100% injury guarantee. Once you get out there playing both sides, you gotta tackle Derrick Henry with that frame. He’s athletic as hell, but he’s gotta do some ninja s—,’ Adams said. The potential for injury has made some question the long-term viability of the Jaguars’ strategy for Hunter, especially given the rarity of two-way NFL players.
Chuck Bednarik was the last full-time two-way athlete in the league, playing as a linebacker and offensive lineman for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1949-62. Other notable former two-way stars include Sammy Baugh, who played as a quarterback, defensive back, and punter, and Don Hutson, who spent his entire NFL career playing receiver and safety with the Green Bay Packers. Hutson later had a stint as a Packers assistant coach. The comparison of Hunter to these historical figures highlights the unique challenges of the two-way role in the NFL.
Hunter’s situation also brings up the question of how teams can manage the physical demands of such a role without compromising the player’s longevity. While some believe that Hunter’s athleticism and versatility could make the role work, others, including Adams, warn that the risks are significant. This debate is expected to continue as the regular season approaches and fans and analysts await the outcome of the Jaguars’ strategy for the rookie.
Furthermore, the discussion around Hunter’s role has sparked broader conversations about the evolving nature of the NFL and how teams are adapting to new types of players. While two-way athletes are rare, the increasing emphasis on versatility and multi-skill sets in the game may lead to more players attempting to fill similar roles. However, the physical strain and injury risks associated with such a position have not gone unnoticed by experts and veterans in the league. The Jaguars’ plan for Hunter is a significant development in this ongoing discussion, and the success or failure of this approach could influence future strategies for other teams.
As the NFL season gets underway, the focus will remain on how Hunter adapts to this unique role and whether the Jaguars’ decision proves to be a bold and innovative move or a risky gamble. The outcome may provide valuable insights into the future of two-way play in the league and the challenges of managing such a demanding position in professional football.