The Jacksonville Jaguars were absolutely prepared for what they signed up for when first-year general manager James Gladstone traded up with the Cleveland Browns on Day 1 of the 2025 NFL Draft to select two-way star Travis Hunter at No. 2 overall. 

Now, they’re navigating the reality of it. The debate over whether Hunter will predominantly function as a shutdown cornerback or an explosive wide receiver had been raging long before the franchise's hybrid declared for the NFL Draft last spring.

Only a few rare modern stars, spearheaded by Hunter’s former collegiate head coach Deion Sanders, has successfully managed a true two-way workload in the NFL.

Everyone is watching to see if Hunter can be the next generational talent to rewrite the history books, but until he takes a regular-season snap, skepticism will remain the consensus. 

No matter how progressive the Jaguars' front office sounds about testing his limits, the reality of the grueling NFL calendar means they might ultimately restrict him to one primary side of the ball.

And NFL.com’s Eric Edholm has some solid arguments to put his point of Hunter playing more on the defensive side as compared to the offensive side. 

“He appeared about twice as much on offense as he did on defense but didn't make a major dent in either spot,” Edholm states.  “The Jaguars continue to say that Hunter will see time on both offense and defense. But it wouldn't shock me if his usage is altered dramatically. I still believe the Jags will have a role for Hunter on offense, but I think there's a strong chance he's featured much more on defense this season.”

Hunter’s role last season was largely restricted to seven games because of his LCL tear. Now that he’s in the final stretch of his recovery and about to go all in on the practice sessions, it will be the time Coen makes the call. 

“It certainly feels like there's a lane toward claiming the starting outside CB spot opposite Montaric Brown. After not drafting a corner and adding only Dane Jackson (who played a mere three snaps last season) in free agency, their need appears far stronger on defense. Plus, I thought after a few trials by fire against the Bengals and Texans, Hunter settled down and played pretty well on defense -- better than he did on offense -- before getting hurt.”

Besides, Hunter has much more competition on the offense in the WR room than he has on the defense. Brian Thomas Jr. is undeniably going to be running the WR show, and fighting for more spotlight while playing CB sounds like a pipedream to navigate. 

“I think his best chance at stardom comes with a defense-heavier role. I think he'll reach that level this season, assuming he stays healthy.”

Join our ROUNDTABLE community! It's free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members. Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!