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Travis Hunter’s NFL plan revealed by Jaguars’ teammate

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Steven Corder | Last updated May 7, 2025 8:32 PM ET

Travis Hunter’s NFL future just got a little clearer—and Colorado fans have reason to watch even closer this fall. Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Arik Armstead peeled back the curtain on how the franchise plans to use the electrifying former Buffalo, and it’s a strategy built around patience, versatility, and long-term dominance.

According to Armstead, the Jaguars’ staff—led by new head coach Liam Coen—is leaning toward easing Hunter into the NFL spotlight by first deploying him on offense. “They want to start him off on offense and sprinkle him into defense,” Armstead told TMZ Sports. That controlled approach shows the Jaguars aren’t rushing development but rather nurturing Hunter’s growth on both sides of the ball, mirroring what Coach Prime did in Boulder with strategic snaps.

Travis Hunter. Starting off at WR. Jags Arik Armstead on #12's Impact

"We are excited to have him. We want playmakers. They want to start him off on offense and sprinkle him into defense"

️ @TMZ_Sports https://t.co/9AnO8ph7v5 pic.twitter.com/AYuZ7D7Pdu
— JaKi (@JaKiTruth) May 5, 2025

Armstead couldn’t hold back his admiration for Hunter’s defensive instincts, especially his ball-hawking skills. “He plays cornerback like he’s a receiver… and takes the ball out of the air,” he said. That kind of skill set has been rare even at the NFL level, and with turnovers at a premium, Hunter could become Jacksonville’s X-factor. He finished his 2024 college season with 4 interceptions and 11 pass breakups—despite missing time due to injury.

Armstead emphasized that the Jaguars aren’t drafting a novelty—they’re developing a weapon. “We want playmakers out there,” he said, highlighting Hunter’s elite versatility. The coaching staff is building a custom scheme to “get him up to speed on everything we’re doing on both sides of football.” That means Colorado fans may see the same two-way flashes Hunter delivered in Boulder—but this time, against the NFL’s best.

Travis Hunter won’t just play in the NFL—he’s being designed for it. If Jacksonville gets the balance right, fans could witness one of the most exciting two-way players in league history. Stay tuned.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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