Travis Hunter Injury Update
Travis Hunter’s much-watched rookie season with the Jacksonville Jaguars has taken an unexpected turn after he suffered a non-contact right knee injury during Thursday’s practice. The team made it official on Friday: Hunter will be placed on injured reserve, forcing him to miss at least the next four games, and there's a very real possibility that the absence could stretch longer, depending on how further tests shake out. The injury came just as Hunter was finding his rhythm on both sides of the ball.
It’s tough news for a player who arrived in Jacksonville with outsized hype and the aura of a college football legend. Fresh off the Heisman win, Hunter was drafted second overall after the Jaguars moved up in a pricey trade. Fans were eager to watch him attempt the rare double act as a full-time receiver and cornerback, something the NFL hasn’t seen in decades. So far, he’s delivered flashes: Hunter has logged a hefty 324 snaps on offense and added 162 more as a defensive back, racking up 28 catches for 298 yards and one touchdown, plus 15 tackles and three pass breakups in seven games. None of those stats is mind-blowing, but they highlight the workload and learning curve facing any player juggling such roles.
The timing stings. In Hunter’s last game before the injury lopsided defeat to the Rams in London, he finally broke loose, grabbing eight receptions for 101 yards and his first NFL touchdown. Not exactly the storybook moment, but enough to get hopes up for a post-bye breakout. Instead, Jaguars coach Liam Coen now faces a confusing puzzle: how to retool the attack with Hunter sidelined and several other receivers also battling injuries.
Jacksonville’s coaching staff is keeping things close to the vest, but one thing is clear: medical staff are still evaluating scans and tests to decide on surgery or rehab. That means fans and fantasy GMs alike are stuck waiting for firmer timetables. For now, Hunter is marked out at least until Week 13, but nobody’s making promises beyond that. The locker room mood? According to coach Coen, mixed but “good spirits.” Small mercy in a season filled with setbacks.
“Minor setback for a major comeback,” Coen quipped, the kind of thing you hear when confidence mixes with nerves. NFL seasons are full of twists, and even spectacular college stars like Travis Hunter aren’t immune. Key for Hunter now: staying patient and remembering that plenty of legends have faced injuries early only to rebound stronger. Jaguars fans know the drill: adjust expectations, cross fingers, and tune in for the next update.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Injury details and team statements are based on official reports and credible sports news sources at the time of publication.
