Jaguars Shift Travis Hunter to Defense as Trevor Lawrence Gains More Weapons in 2026 Camp
Updated
Updated · Sports Illustrated · Aug 18
Jaguars Shift Travis Hunter to Defense as Trevor Lawrence Gains More Weapons in 2026 Camp
2 articles · Updated · Sports Illustrated · Aug 18
Summary
Travis Hunter has spent camp primarily on defense, with Jacksonville planning to use him as an offensive package player because the Jaguars believe they need him more in the secondary.
Trevor Lawrence enters camp with a broader supporting cast after last year's streamlined offense, helped by Jakobi Meyers' fit, Brian Thomas Jr.'s growth and added flexibility from Hunter packages.
Bhayshul Tuten and free-agent Chris Rodriguez Jr. are driving the biggest offensive change after Travis Etienne Jr.'s exit, giving Liam Coen a more physical run game built to unlock play-action.
The offensive line remains the main concern: Patrick Mekari is recovering from back surgery, third-round pick Emmanuel Pregnon is pushing at right guard, and Jacksonville has tested Anton Harrison at left tackle.
The defensive front looks like a strength, with Arik Armstead standing out, Travon Walker moving inside on passing downs and 2025 undrafted edge B.J. Green II emerging in Anthony Campanile's evolving scheme.