Hunter’s rookie season was hampered by a torn lateral collateral ligament (LCL) in November, ending his year with season-ending surgery. In seven games, he totaled 28 receptions for 298 yards and one touchdown on 45 targets, with his most productive performance coming in Week 7 against the Los Angeles Rams (eight receptions for 101 yards and a TD).
His placement in the Jaguars’ long-term receiving corps grew more uncertain after his injury and IR stint, especially as Jakobi Meyers joined Jacksonville and posted 355 receiving yards and three touchdowns on 27 receptions in six games before signing a three-year, $60 million extension in December.
Meanwhile, Parker Washington posted a larger-than-expected 2025 campaign, setting career highs with 88 targets, 58 receptions, 847 yards and five touchdowns, including a productive stretch late in the season that yielded 507 receiving yards from Week 16 through the Wild Card Round. The team also appears intent on keeping Brian Thomas Jr. as a core piece of the offense.
From a strategic standpoint, moving Hunter to defense could be the best path for the Jaguars in 2026 and beyond. The 6-foot-1 defensive back showed All-Pro potential at cornerback when healthy, and his 162 defensive snaps last season allowed a 50 percent completion rate, a 68.3 passer rating when targeted, and 5.9 yards per target, underscoring his upside in coverage.
Even with a continued role on offense at times, Jacksonville’s plan emphasizes building a stronger defense around Hunter’s primary position while maintaining offensive flexibility with their veteran receivers and youngerUpside options. The result could be a more balanced Jaguars team that maximizes Hunter’s impact on defense while preserving explosive playmaking on offense.
