Travis Hunter is well worth what Jaguars gave up

With the deal, the Jaguars won't pick again until the third round (No. 70 overall). Parting with their 2026 first-round pick is bold, but Hunter mitigates the risk involved considering his ability as a two-way athlete.

He's the best cornerback and wide receiver in the class, and ESPN's Adam Schefter reported after he was selected that the Jags intend to utilize his unique skillset.

"They will on-board him by giving him a heavy dose of the wide receiver position while still playing him at his more natural postiion on defense," Schefter wrote.

"Two positions for pick No. 2," he added.

In Jacksonville, Hunter will form a dynamic wide receiver duo with 2024 first-round pick Brian Thomas Jr. Last season, he led all rookies with 1,282 receiving yards and 10 receiving touchdowns.

Hunter led the Big 12 with 96 receptions and 15 receiving TDs last season and gained 1,258 receiving yards. Per Pro Football Focus, he finished 2024 with a 64.7 percent contested catch rate.

As much as Hunter will help quarterback Trevor Lawrence in the passing game, most of his value could come on defense.

The Jaguars ranked last in pass defense (257.4 yards allowed) a season ago, giving up 29 passing touchdowns with only six interceptions.

Hunter allowed 23 receptions on 41 targets (56.1 percent) for 222 yards and one touchdown with four interceptions and seven pass breakups. Quarterbacks posted an ugly 39.9 passer rating when targeting him.

Hunter is a culture setter and was widely viewed as the best player in the 2025 class. 

The Jaguars had to part with significant resources to add Hunter, but the reigning Heisman Trophy winner will make it well worth it.