Jacksonville Jaguars general manager James Gladstone confirmed the team remains committed to using Travis Hunter on both offense and defense in 2026. Despite a season-ending knee injury last October, the organization was encouraged by the rookie's progress. Gladstone noted Hunter was peaking midseason before the setback, and the team believes he can be a feature point on offense and an impact player on defense.

Selected second overall in the 2024 draft, the Heisman Trophy winner showed flashes of his unique dual-threat ability before getting hurt. Hunter posted 28 catches for 298 yards and a touchdown while adding 15 tackles and three pass breakups. His offensive snap share (67%) significantly outpaced his defensive workload (36%), a balance the Jaguars aim to adjust.

Hunter underwent surgery in November to repair a torn lateral collateral ligament and is expected to return to full activities by May. The Jaguars made a massive investment to acquire him, trading four picks—including a 2026 first-rounder—to move up for the Colorado product. His evolution remains a top priority for head coach Liam Coen.