The Jacksonville Jaguars are preparing No. 2 overall pick Travis Hunter to be a two-way player at the NFL level.
That said, the Jaguars appear more confident in the Colorado product’s offensive ability as he kickstarts his NFL career.
Jacksonville released its first unofficial depth chart of the NFL preseason Monday. Hunter was listed as a starting wide receiver and a backup cornerback on defense.
Here’s what to know about Hunter’s placement on the Jaguars depth chart as the preseason begins.
Jaguars WR depth chart
Hunter is one of three players listed as a starting wide receiver on Jacksonville’s first offensive depth chart, according to the team’s official website. Below is a full look at the top six players at the position:
- Brian Thomas Jr.*
- Dyami Brown*
- Travis Hunter*
- Parker Washington
- Trenton Irwin
- Joshua Cephus
* Denotes starter.
It isn’t clear whether Hunter or Brown – a speedy, free-agent signing – is viewed as Jacksonville’s preferred No. 2 receiver across from Thomas.
Still, it’s noteworthy Hunter appears to be trending toward being a starter on offense ahead of his first NFL season. That aligns with the plan coach Liam Coen outlined after the Jaguars drafted Hunter: to use the rookie ‘primarily on offense’ during the offseason program before gradually allowing him to play more on defense as he learns the system.
Jaguars CB depth chart
Hunter was not listed as a starter on defense. Instead, he appears to be battling with Jarrian Jones for a backup role behind veterans Tyson Campbell and Jourdan Lewis.
Below is a look at how the first- and second-string cornerback groups are currently shaking out in Jacksonville.
- Tyson Campbell*
- Jourdan Lewis*
- Jarrian Jones OR Travis Hunter
- Montaric Brown
* Denotes starter.
While Lewis is ahead of Hunter and Jones on the Jaguars depth chart, it’s worth noting 606 of Lewis’ 872 snaps last season with the Dallas Cowboys came in the slot. That may position the Hunter vs. Jones battle to be for the outside cornerback job that would open across from Campbell when Jacksonville is in its nickel package.
All that’s to say that while Hunter appears better poised to have a big role in Jacksonville’s offense to start his NFL career, he may not be far off from earning a critical defensive role.
All the NFL news on and off the field. Sign up for USA TODAY’s 4th and Monday newsletter.