Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence expressed enthusiasm about the team‘s offseason preparation, focusing on mentoring rookie Travis Hunter as he adapts to professional play. Lawrence highlighted the challenges Hunter faces playing both offense and defense, emphasizing the learning curve during the break before training camp.
Lawrence explained that the time before camp gives Hunter a crucial opportunity to familiarize himself with the playbook and adjust to the complexity of the system. Because rookies join midway through the installation process, they must catch up rapidly without the gradual introduction veterans receive.
“There’s a lot, obviously, being thrown on him, being a high pick, playing both ways. He’s done a great job,”
Lawrence said.
“He’s got some time to get into his playbook, learn the system because rookies have a tough job coming in when we’re already halfway through the install, so they come in and half the playbooks in, and they’re just jumping in. So they don’t get to start off like all of us do with the softballs and work their way in. They jump right in the middle of it,”
he added.
Lawrence looks forward to spending time with Hunter during the summer to build chemistry through throwing sessions and tactical discussions. He has confidence in the rookie‘s ability to continue improving and contribute meaningfully on both sides of the ball.
“I’m excited to spend some time with him this summer. We plan on getting together quite a bit. Throwing, getting some timing down, but also just talking through the system. I got no concerns about him. I’m just excited to see him continue to get better. He’s a special player on both sides of the ball,”
Lawrence said.
Insights on Travis Hunter’s Unique Role from Jaguars Teammate Arik Armstead
Jaguars defensive lineman Arik Armstead praised Hunter’s rare ability to handle playing offense and defense as a rookie. Speaking on the podcast First Things First, Armstead described Hunter as a natural athlete whose physical poise and stamina stand out even in Jacksonville’s hot environment.
“It does seem impossible until you’re around Travis,”
Armstead said.
“I think one of the most impressive things about him is that it’s hot in Jacksonville, like we’re sweating, and this dude doesn’t break a sweat. You look at him, he’s smooth. He’s very elastic. Everything just comes naturally to him. Just a natural-born athlete,”
Armstead said.
Armstead also highlighted Hunter’s demanding schedule balancing both positions, noting his ability to thrive in team meetings and on the field, as well as the energy he brings to the city.
“When you look at playing both sides of the football, his schedule is crazy,”
Armstead explained.
“It’s like two days he’s on offense, and then he comes over, and then he pops up in our defensive meetings, and then he’s out there with our color jersey on, and first day he’s playing defense, he makes a crazy interception and then goes on offense scoring touchdowns. So I’m really excited to have him as a teammate, and he brings a lot to Jacksonville, not just who he is as a player but who he is as a person. He’s bringing a lot of excitement to the city, and people are going to want to watch him play.”
Veteran Perspective: Johnny Hekker on Returning to Coaching Roots
Meanwhile, Tennessee Titans punter Johnny Hekker shared his reasons for joining the Titans, emphasizing the opportunity to reunite with special teams coordinator John Fassel. Hekker cited their longstanding relationship as a key factor in his decision to sign with Tennessee.
“It was an opportunity to come and be somewhere where my contributions will hopefully help a team turn the page into a bright future,”
Hekker said.
“And being reunited with Bones (Fassel) had a huge part to do with it, too, the impact he’s had on my career, from my time with him, and him coaching against me. Even then I could still pick his brain and still be a friend. We’ve always had a great relationship. So, the door being open to join him again was a dream come true. I’m just thankful to be on a team that’s hungry to improve and turn the tides here. Excited about the future of the program. I’m excited to be a Titan,”
he added.
Entering his 14th season in the NFL, Hekker emphasized the evolving skill set required to excel in punting and his commitment to continual improvement while enjoying the game.
“To punt in today’s NFL, you have to be well-rounded in a lot of different areas,”
he remarked.
“I pride myself in being great directionally, I really try to hang my hat on that, where we tell our guys where I’m going to punt the ball, and put it over there. Also, having some kind of misdirection stuff, too, to keep punt returners guessing. I’ve tried to develop those things over the course of my career, and I still try to add things to the bag. And, I’m still having fun doing it.”
What This Means for the Jaguars’ Future
Trevor Lawrence’s dedication to helping Travis Hunter navigate the difficulties of a dual-role rookie season reflects the Jaguars’ focused approach during their offseason preparation. With Lawrence’s guidance and Hunter’s unique talents, the Jaguars aim to build momentum heading into training camp and beyond.
Arik Armstead’s insights into Hunter’s athleticism underscore the potential impact the rookie could have on both sides of the ball, adding excitement for fans and teammates alike. Meanwhile, experienced players like Johnny Hekker demonstrate the value of strong coaching relationships and adaptability within the NFL.
As the team ramps up for the new season, Lawrence and Hunter’s growing partnership will likely be a key storyline, illustrating how effective offseason preparation can contribute to individual growth and overall team success in Jacksonville’s quest for improvement.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many concussions did Trevor Lawrence have?
A. This is his second concussion since joining the Jaguars and the third since his college days at Clemson. Lawrence had a concussion during the Jaguars’ Week 15 game against Baltimore last December but played in their following game against Tampa Bay.
Q. Is Trevor Lawrence a dad?
A. Trevor Lawrence, an NFL player, has become a father. The quarterback for the Jacksonville Jaguars and his wife, Marissa, shared the news of their first child’s birth. They expressed their love by saying, “Mommy and daddy love you so much!”