​Coach Liam Coen indicated last month that the Jaguars were unsure when Travis Hunter would be cleared to play at full speed. It appears the team now has clarity. According to Cameron Wolfe of NFL Media, Hunter is expected to be fully cleared in time for the start of training camp on July 28.
Hunter, who excels as both a wide receiver and a cornerback, suffered a season-altering injury last year when he tore the lateral collateral ligament in his right knee during a practice on October 30. He underwent surgery on November 11 in Dallas, with Cowboys team physician Dr. Dan Cooper and Jaguars team physician Dr. Kevin Kaplan performing the procedure. Since then, Hunter has been on a rapid recovery path, and Wolfe notes that he is now running at speeds exceeding 20 mph—faster than the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner has ever recorded.
In his rookie season, Hunter contributed in multiple ways before his injury. He appeared in seven games, totaling 324 offensive snaps and 162 defensive snaps. On offense, he recorded 28 receptions for 298 yards and a touchdown, while contributing 15 tackles on defense. The Jaguars envision an expanded role for Hunter on the defensive side this coming season, particularly given the team’s need at cornerback.
Hunter’s versatility remains a significant asset for Jacksonville as they prepare for a demanding schedule in 2026. His ability to line up on both sides of the ball, combined with his speed and ball skills, could make him a cornerstone of the Jaguars’ secondary. If he returns to full form, Hunter provides the organization with a rare dual-threat dynamic that opponents will have to account for, potentially changing how the Jaguars deploy their personnel on both defense and special packages.
As the July 28 training camp deadline approaches, Jacksonville will be watching closely to confirm that Hunter’s progress continues on schedule. The organization will likely limit contact early but will gradually ramp up drills to ensure he regains his knee strength, speed, and cutting ability. If all goes as planned, Hunter could slide back into a prominent role on defense, complementing the young core of Jacksonville’s secondary while offering continued threats on offense in the return game and as a playmaker in open space. The broader expectation is that his return to peak form will bolster the Jaguars’ confidence as they address cornerback depth and versatility, aiming to improve a defense that seeks to close the gap with the league’s top units.