Jaguars’ Travis Hunter Shines in Preseason Opener, GPA Surfaces
UPDATE: Jacksonville Jaguars rookie Travis Hunter made headlines during his NFL preseason debut on August 9, 2025, not just for his performance on the field but also for his impressive 3.7 GPA. The dual-threat athlete, aiming to become a rare two-way player in the NFL, caught two passes and participated defensively during the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, which ended in a 31-25 loss for the Jaguars.
Hunter’s college academic achievements resurfaced immediately after the game, adding to the buzz surrounding the talented rookie. He expressed confidence in managing the complexities of playing both offense and defense, stating, “That’s all I have to do is play football and go out there and study and make sure I understand what I’m doing.”
This dual focus on athletics and academics is drawing comparisons to historical two-way stars like Chuck Bednarik and Sammy Baugh, who excelled in multiple positions at a time when such versatility was more common. Head coach Liam Coen praised Hunter’s offensive skills while acknowledging areas for growth on defense, noting, “He made a couple good catches on some option routes and missed the one tackle defensively that I noticed.”
The Jaguars selected Hunter with the second overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, showcasing their belief in his unique talents. Following his remarkable collegiate career, where he won the Heisman Trophy and delivered an emotional acceptance speech, Hunter’s journey continues to inspire fans and teammates alike.
The Jaguars are set to face the New Orleans Saints on August 18 in their next preseason matchup, followed by a season opener against the Carolina Panthers on September 7. As Hunter’s dual-threat potential sparks conversations around the league, many are eager to see how his academic discipline translates into professional success.
Stay tuned for more updates on Travis Hunter and the Jacksonville Jaguars as they continue their preseason journey.
