Jaguars Confirm Travis Hunter Will Keep Two-Way Role in 2026
Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Liam Coen stated that Travis Hunter will have an offensive package despite his primary focus on defense. Hunter, who won the Heisman at Colorado, played both sides as a rookie, recording 28 catches and 15 tackles in seven games. Coen emphasized that the team has a detailed plan to get Hunter opportunities on offense.
Hunter's rookie season demonstrated his rare versatility, with meaningful production on both sides of the ball across seven games. His offensive numbers included nearly 300 receiving yards and a touchdown, while defensively he contributed tackles and pass breakups, validating the two-way experiment at the professional level.
Coen's comments suggest the coaching staff has invested significant offseason time in structuring Hunter's workload. The head coach noted that defensive responsibilities have naturally increased, but the offensive package remains a priority, indicating the team views his dual role as a strategic asset rather than a novelty.
Hunter's continued two-way usage could influence how NFL teams evaluate hybrid players in future drafts. If he sustains production on both sides, it may encourage more franchises to consider two-way roles for elite athletes, potentially reshaping roster construction and player development philosophies. Conversely, injury risk remains a concern that could temper such approaches.