The Hunter Experiment: Jags Begin Cautious Rollout of Two-Way Phenom

• The Jaguars are cautiously implementing rookie Travis Hunter as a two-way player, a first in the NFL in decades.
• Head Coach Liam Coen is having Hunter focus on one side of the ball per day to ensure mastery before integration.
• Hunter expressed his support for the measured approach, acknowledging the mental challenge of the dual role.
• The plan is for Hunter to eventually practice both offense and defense in the same session once he's comfortable.
• While Hunter develops, another offensive weapon is reportedly emerging as a new red zone target for Trevor Lawrence.

The Jacksonville air is thick with anticipation, and it's all centered around one player: Travis Hunter. The rookie sensation began his audacious quest to become the NFL's first true two-way star in decades, but the Jags are taking a measured approach. While Hunter learns the ropes one side at a time, another offensive weapon is emerging from the shadows, giving Trevor Lawrence a reliable new target in the red zone.

I need to be able to process everything fast, quick... I like that we're starting off slow, getting me adjusted, making sure I know where I need to be on one side of the ball each day and then it [will] all come together.

Patience with a Phenom

All eyes were on Travis Hunter as training camp rolled into its third day. The plan to make him the NFL's first regular two-way player since 1962 is officially underway, but it's a marathon, not a sprint. Head Coach Liam Coen is easing Hunter into his dual role, dedicating the first two days to offense and the third exclusively to defense. The goal is mastery before integration. 'I like that we're starting off slow,' Hunter told reporters, acknowledging the mental challenge. Coen confirmed the team's cautious strategy, stating that Hunter will eventually practice both sides in the same session, but not until he has a firm grasp of his assignments on each. It's a smart, calculated risk designed to maximize the rookie's immense talent without overwhelming him.

Parker Washington Seizes the Moment

While Hunter commands the spotlight, third-year receiver Parker Washington is quietly putting together a stellar camp. He's quickly become Trevor Lawrence's favorite target in scoring situations, hauling in touchdown passes in both 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills. Washington's crisp route-running and reliable hands are impossible to ignore. His eventual role in the 2025 offense might seem tied to how much Hunter lines up at receiver, but if Washington keeps making plays like this, he'll force his way onto the field regardless. He's not just a placeholder; he's making a statement.

QB1 Watch: Actions Speak Louder

The official word on Trevor Lawrence's shoulder remains 'questionable for Week 1,' a status that keeps fans on edge. However, what's happening on the practice field tells a more optimistic story. Lawrence is not only participating in drills but thriving. The chemistry he's showing with Parker Washington, particularly on those red zone touchdowns, is a massive positive. While the team and medical staff will continue to monitor his AC joint injury, seeing QB1 throw with confidence and accuracy is the best update any fan could ask for right now. The roster remains stable with no other transactions, allowing the team to build this crucial on-field chemistry.

The early days of camp are painting a fascinating picture. The cautious development of Travis Hunter, the explosive emergence of Parker Washington, and the promising on-field work from Trevor Lawrence create a compelling narrative. The next step is seeing if Hunter's workload increases and if Washington can sustain his hot start. As we count down the days to the first preseason game on August 7th, these are the storylines that will define the 2025 Jacksonville Jaguars.