Jaguars' Travis Hunter considered a top NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year candidate Travis Hunter's first NFL offseason is one unlike any other rookie in NFL history. The former Colorado two-way star is practicing at wide receiver and cornerback while trying to be elite at both positions. Hunter's talent is highly regarded throughout the league, so it came as no surprise that he was named an early candidate for the NFL's Offensive Rookie of the Year award ahead of his first year with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Over the weekend, Bleacher Report named Hunter as one of seven rookies to watch for the top first-year player honor. Hunter was joined on the watchlist by Tennessee Titans quarterback Cam Ward, New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough, Indianapolis Colts tight end Tyler Warren, Denver Broncos running back RJ Harvey, Los Angeles Chargers running back Omarion Hampton and Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty, who is seen by many as the favorite. Bleacher Report's Damian Parson sees Hunter forming a dominant duo with Jaguars' star receiver Brian Thomas Jr. With both explosive receivers on the field, Hunter should see plenty of advantageous opportunities.
Hunter will be peppered with short/quick passes in space where his natural playmaking ability can shine. The stars aligned for Hunter in this Jaguars offense: He has a quarterback who can get him the football, an established WR1 and a good play-caller. That can all equal a ROY crown.
Thomas will still likely be the Jaguars' top pass catcher due to Hunter's defensive responsibilities, but Hunter holds all the traits to become an immediate impact player. In his Heisman Trophy-winning season in Boulder, the two-way superstar racked up 1,258 receiving yards and 16 total touchdowns, leading the way to him becoming the No. 2 overall pick in last month's draft.
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