The NFL will witness something extraordinary since neon lights and prime time television: an exceptional two-way threat. Only a select few since 1980 have achieved such feats – Travis Hunter being among them and set to do battle for Jacksonville Jaguars this week as their star two-way playmaker.
Liam Coen has designed an unconventional strategy centered on flexibility and unpredictability to try to introduce something fresh, keeping opponents guessing over different scenarios involving talented rookie Hunter. “We’ll just have to figure it out,” Coen stated to media, underscoring that ongoing adjustments needed in order to balance his participation on both ends of the field. His aim? Keep adversaries off balance while always anticipating possible outcomes involving Hunter.
The decision to utilize Hunter as an “every-down wide receiver and situational corner” in the upcoming regular-season opener against the Carolina Panthers highlights the team’s confidence in his dual capabilities. Despite enduring an upper-body injury during training camp, which resulted in missed time, Hunter’s performance remained impressive, showcasing a nearly equal split between offense and defense snaps.
Coen remains wary, taking into account Hunter’s injury and the increased demands placed upon his dual role. She may need to adjust their plan in order to maximize Hunter’s longevity and effectiveness throughout the season.
As quarterback Trevor Lawrence faces new professional and personal challenges in 2018, one is personally significant for himself: for the first time ever in his professional career he will go without his playbook wristband – a sign of both confidence and growth in his command of the game. “First time without it” Lawrence announced; this decision marks an important change as it allows him to lead his team without physical constraints from this physical piece on their wrists.