Jaguars prioritize Travis Hunter's recovery over specific role. His health dictates his return, with team focusing on his well-being first.
There are many questions about whether the Jacksonville Jaguars will focus Travis Hunter's efforts on offense or defense. But they are prioritizing his health over penciling in a role for him next season.
Hunter, the Jaguars' No. 2 pick in last year's draft, tore his right LCL in October during practice. The injury sidelined him for the rest of the season, kickstarting his rehab journey and timer until he becomes cleared to return to action.
The two-way phenom had 28 receptions for 298 yards and one touchdown as a weapon for quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Hunter totaled 15 tackles (11 solo) and three passes defended on the defensive end.
His injury sparked a discussion around utilizing his talents as the team's primary cornerback, but coach Liam Coen said he's more focused on how Hunter is feeling during rehab.
"It’s an unspoken understanding that there are some depth things (at cornerback) that he can come in and help us out," Coen told Florida Times-Union reporter Ryan O'Halloran. "The focus, more so, has been, 'How are you feeling today?' We have not dove into specifics on scheduling or role."
Although Coen says Hunter and the team have not had discussions regarding his future role, it's worth pondering his utilization on one side of the ball more than the other.
Coen highlighted some troubles with the Jaguars' cornerback depth. As currently constructed, Jacksonville has two productive cornerbacks and two who need reps to showcase their talents.
Montaric Brown and Christian Braswell helped mitigate the loss of Hunter's production throughout the season. Brown accumulated 51 tackles (43 solo), two interceptions and 12 passes defended.
Braswell recorded all 14 of his tackles (11 solo) and three passes defended after Hunter's injury. The two performed well, but a healthy Hunter leading the defensive unit bolsters its strength tenfold.
In his final season at Colorado, he accumulated 35 tackles (24 solo), 11 passes defended, a forced fumble and four interceptions. College football plays fewer games, but a full season of cornerback play at the Division I level provides some insight into what he'd look like healthy in the NFL.
Playing both sides of the ball is taxing on the body; more snaps equal more risks for injury. That's a significant reason behind the discussion on whether Hunter should prioritize a defensive or offensive role next season.
Now, the Jaguars are focusing on ensuring he's healthy for OTAs in late May and early June. Coen didn't confirm whether his two-way phenom would be available for OTAs, but he left the fans and media with an overwhelmingly positive update regarding his rehab status.
"He’s very well ahead of where he’s supposed to be," Coen said. "I know the docs and athletic trainers feel really good about him.”
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