Overview
- Bayless posted a nearly 30-minute video and messages on X criticizing the decision to be baptized hours before the Jaguars’ Oct. 12 game, claiming the rookie is mentally checking out.
- Hunter responded in postgame comments that he had planned the baptism and chose Sunday for religious reasons, saying he wants to become a better man.
- OutKick noted Hunter did not miss warm-ups or any assigned snaps, and supporters framed the baptism as a personal decision unrelated to his commitment to football.
- The ceremony took place at Celebration Church in Jacksonville and was captured on Instagram; later that day Hunter had four receptions for 15 yards and two tackles in a 20-12 loss to the Seahawks.
- Bayless tied his critique to Hunter’s reduced two-way usage, citing college rates of 87% offense and 83% defense versus 63% and 39% with Jacksonville through six games, while Hunter told NBC Sports he is staying patient as coaches adjust his role.