Travis Hunter stuns at Jaguars camp (July 29), showcasing elite two-way talent. See how the rookie and a motivated Josh Hines-Allen are shaping the 2024 season.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The buzz at the Miller Electric Center is palpable, and it has a name: Travis Hunter. The star rookie isn't just turning heads at Jaguars training camp; he's spinning them, making a legitimate case to become the NFL's first true two-way star in a generation. On Tuesday, he was a blur of talent, seamlessly transitioning between wide receiver and cornerback drills, leaving coaches and teammates in awe of his elite conditioning and skill on both sides of the ball.
He is in incredible shape. I can admire that because I'm struggling out here every day. It is super impressive.
What Travis Hunter is attempting is no gimmick. Offensive coordinator Grant Udinski and defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile both heaped praise on the rookie, not just for his talent, but for his preparation. 'It's a testament to his work, his training in the heat in the summer, to be able to come out here and do this,' Udinski remarked. Campanile was equally impressed, noting Hunter's ability to handle the immense physical and mental load. As Hunter continues to excel in both roles, the conversation shifts from 'if' he can do it to 'how' the Jaguars will deploy their unique weapon to create matchup nightmares all over the field.
While Hunter dominates the headlines, a powerful story is fueling the other side of the ball. Defensive end Josh Hines-Allen, inspired by his son's recovery from leukemia, declared his goal for 2025: break the NFL's single-season sack record of 23. After a dip in production in 2024, which he attributed to playing at a heavier weight under the previous scheme, Hines-Allen is recommitted and playing with profound purpose. This new edge fits perfectly with DC Anthony Campanile's vision for an aggressive, physical defense. That philosophy is already showing up in the secondary, where third-year safety Antonio Johnson is having a standout camp, recently snagging an interception and exuding confidence. The entire defensive front, including lineman B.J. Green II, is feeling the new energy as the team builds depth and intensity.
It wasn't all positive news, as the team is managing a handful of injuries. Cornerback Montaric Brown (leg) and offensive guard Patrick Mekari (back spasms) were the latest to be sidelined. They join TE Johnny Mundt (upper body), RB Bhayshul Tuten (hamstring), and WR Louis Rees-Zammit (back) on the mend. Fortunately, team officials have indicated that none of the injuries are considered serious, and the staff is prioritizing long-term health as they ramp up for the preseason.
The energy at camp is undeniable. Between Travis Hunter's historic attempt to redefine a position and the defense's renewed fire under a motivated Josh Hines-Allen, there's a different feeling in the air. While it's only July, the foundation for an explosive 2025 season is being laid brick by brick. The real test will come in the preseason, but for now, the optimism in Jacksonville is well-earned.
