Overview
- The Jaguars have used Hunter mainly on defense through the first two games, logging 66 defensive snaps and only 11 offensive snaps, and coaches said they plan to give him more offensive opportunities on Sunday against the New England Patriots.
- Jacksonville runs a planned cornerback rotation that has intentionally capped Hunter’s defensive snaps to keep multiple outside corners fresh and reduce wear from a recent LCL surgery.
- Coaches and insiders emphasize a deliberate, step-by-step plan because Hunter has played just nine NFL games overall and missed much of the 2025 season rehabbing his knee.
- Public criticism has grown, notably from college coach Deion Sanders, but team leaders say patience is aimed at preserving Hunter’s long-term availability and two-way potential.
- If usage increases as coaches expect, the Jaguars will face a test of balancing Hunter’s health with the need to justify the club’s sizable draft investment and to unlock his value on offense.