When Travis Hunter walked across the stage at the University of Colorado's commencement ceremony, he wasn't just celebrating his academic achievements. Under his graduation gown, he wore Jacksonville Jaguars pajama pants, a symbolic nod to his next chapter as an NFL star. Selected as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Hunter is poised to make history as the league's first full-time two-way player in over six decades.

A Generational Talent

Hunter's journey to the NFL has been nothing short of remarkable. From his high school days at Collins Hill in Georgia to his collegiate career at Jackson State and Colorado, he has consistently defied expectations. At Colorado, he became the first player in NCAA history to earn first-team All-America honors on both offense and defense in the same season. His 2024 campaign saw him rack up 96 receptions, 15 touchdowns, and four interceptions, solidifying his status as a dual-threat powerhouse.

The Jaguars' Bold Vision

The Jacksonville Jaguars, under first-year general manager James Gladstone, have high hopes for Hunter. Gladstone believes Hunter has the potential to not only elevate the team but also transform the sport itself. "He embodies belief," Gladstone said. "He's a rare person, a rare player, and a reminder that the boundaries of football were built to be challenged."

The Jaguars plan to utilize Hunter on both offense and defense, though the exact snap distribution remains fluid. First-year head coach Liam Coen emphasized the importance of flexibility in their approach, noting that Hunter's ability to learn and adapt will be key. "We want it to look like what it looked like at Colorado," Coen said, "and that would be pretty good for us."

Handling the Spotlight

Hunter's former coaches and mentors have no doubt he can handle the pressure of being an NFL two-way player. His work ethic, humility, and focus have been consistent throughout his career. "He lives football every single day," said Collins Hill head coach Drew Swick. "That's his No. 1 passion, and he is very, very good at it."

A Franchise Changer?

While Hunter isn't one to make bold predictions, his confidence in his abilities is unwavering. "My job is to come out and be Travis Hunter," he said. "I'm going to play how they envision me to play and exceed all the expectations." With his unique skill set and determination, Hunter has the potential to not only revive the Jaguars' fortunes but also redefine what it means to be an NFL player in the modern era.