Trevor Lawrence, the starting quarterback for the Jacksonville Jaguars, has expressed concerns about the demanding workload his rookie teammate Travis Hunter will face in the upcoming NFL season. Lawrence’s remarks come as Hunter prepares to take on the rare task of playing both wide receiver and defensive back roles for the Jaguars in 2025, highlighting challenges linked to managing a dual-role responsibility in professional football.
Both Lawrence and Hunter share a similar background as highly regarded high school prospects who advanced successfully through college football. Lawrence excelled as Clemson’s star quarterback, while Hunter stood out at Colorado as a versatile athlete. Their talents earned them top-two selections in the NFL Draft, with the Jaguars securing both to build their team around.
Challenges of Managing Dual Responsibilities for Travis Hunter
Hunter’s unique role in Jacksonville will involve contributing on offense as a wide receiver and switching to defense as a cornerback to cover some of the league’s best pass catchers. This split responsibility is rare at the professional level, prompting questions about its feasibility. Lawrence acknowledged the steep learning curve Hunter faces as he adapts to learning two complex systems simultaneously.
“Travis has been great. Just his work ethic, how he’s come in. He has been one of the hardest-working guys we have,” Lawrence said. “I think it is the commitment to learning the playbook and trying to learn the two systems. It’s a lot on a rookie.
“It is challenging to learn everything and he has done a nice job and we still have work to do and we are going to get a lot done in training camp and get us ready to play come September … But I’m really excited for him and how he can help our squad.”
Despite the concerns raised by analysts and critics over the sustainability of this dual-role approach, Hunter’s teammates are committed to aiding his transition. Their support will be crucial in helping him manage the intense demands of contributing on both sides of the ball.
Preparing for a Crucial Season: Lawrence’s Return and Hunter’s NFL Debut
Trevor Lawrence is heading into his fifth NFL season with the Jaguars, aiming to rebound from a difficult 2024 campaign. That year was marred by injuries, limiting him to just 10 games—the fewest in his career so far. Known for his 2022 Pro Bowl season, Lawrence is working diligently in the offseason to regain form and start strongly in Week 1. Training camp and the preseason will be vital to his preparation for what could be a defining year in his professional journey.
Meanwhile, Travis Hunter is preparing to showcase his rare skillset in his rookie year. Recognized as a 2024 Heisman Trophy recipient and a record-setting athlete capable of excelling at both wide receiver and cornerback, Hunter now faces the challenge of competing in the NFL’s demanding environment. As he practices and trains camp progresses, Hunter will likely play a larger offensive role as a WR2 alongside Lawrence, while simultaneously adapting to his defensive responsibilities as a cornerback.
The Road Ahead for Lawrence and Hunter With the Jaguars
The 2025 season represents a pivotal moment for both players. Lawrence is set on reviving the form that once made him a Pro Bowl quarterback, while Hunter embraces the challenge of mastering a dual-role system that could redefine his impact on the game. Success in blending these roles would provide a strategic edge to the Jaguars’ offense and defense alike.
The team’s development throughout training camp and preseason will be closely watched, as they seek to maximize the potential of these two dynamic talents. How effectively Hunter balances his offensive and defensive duties will likely influence the Jaguars’ overall performance and could set a precedent for similar player utilization in the NFL.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many concussions did Trevor Lawrence have?
A. This is his second concussion with the Jaguars and his third overall, including his time at Clemson. Lawrence experienced a concussion during the Jaguars’ Week 15 loss to Baltimore last December, yet he played in the next game against Tampa Bay.