Josh Hines-Allen is on the list of those expecting big things from Travis Hunter in 2026.

Hines-Allen, the leader of the Jacksonville Jaguars' ascending defense, made an appearance on the NFL Network and discussed the potential impact that Hunter can have on the team this season. Of course, no conversation about Hunter gets very far before debating whether the second-year star should play wide receiver or cornerback. Hines-Allen was asked to give his opinion about where he wants Hunter to play.

"On the field," answered Hines-Allen. "So being healthy. I think it's just a priority No. 1 for him, but obviously he can impact on the offensive side of the ball and the defensive side of the ball. And so if he can be on the field all the time, then that's going to make our team better. So for me to, as a vet to him, is take care of your body, come back healthy, and just come back as dominant as you can be."

Frankly, that is a perfect answer from Hines-Allen. Does it dodge the question? Absolutely. But that doesn't mean it's not a thoughtful answer. 

Hunter was limited to only seven games in his rookie year before a knee injury ended his season. After a slow start, the 2025 second-overall pick looked like he was just about to hit his groove as a wide receiver, notching eight catches for 101 yards and a touchdown in Jacksonville's London game against the Los Angeles Rams.H That would be the last time Hunter saw the field before tearing his LCL during practice on October 30.

Just having him back on the field, no matter the position, will have a huge impact for the Jaguars, a fact that Hines-Allen clearly understands.

Hunter only played 162 snaps at cornerback in 2025, a number that is expected to increase significantly this season. He is expected to be one of the Jaguars' starting CBs in 2026, along with Montaric Brown, with Jourdan Lewis in the slot. Hunter possesses All-Pro-type potential at CB, and his presence should have a ripple effect on the entire defense. Hines-Allen concurs.

"Defensively, when he's out there on the field, man, stickier coverage, more sacks, more pressures, that's the name of the game, rushing coverage and we want our best players out there on the field at all times," said Hines-Allen.

Even though Hunter will be seeing a serious increase in his defensive snaps this season, Jaguars' head coach Liam Coen has repeatedly confirmed that he will still contribute on offense.

Jacksonville's receiving corps is absolutely loaded heading into the season, even without including Hunter. The trio of Brian Thomas Jr., Jakobi Meyers, and Parker Washington is among the best in the entire NFL. Adding a healthy Hunter to that group makes the Jaguars' offense downright scary.

Hines-Allen believes Hunter can become one of the best at the position.

"And then offensively," added Hines-Allen, "go-up-and-get-it, and he's a go-up-and-get-it type of guy, and we love to see a lot of splash plays. We need that big playmaking ability, and he's going to be one of the best to do it for a long time."

Hines-Allen hits the nail on the head. Hunter can provide a serious boost to both the Jaguars' defense and offense, but the most important thing is his ability to stay healthy. If he is 100%, Hunter's ability to impact a game on both sides of the ball is unrivaled in the NFL.

It looks like Hunter will be getting his chance to be a dominant cornerback in 2026. If he can become a true shutdown corner, the Jaguars' defense can be among the very best in the league.

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