Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Deion Sanders recently voiced disappointment over the lack of communication from the Jacksonville Jaguars regarding Travis Hunter. Sanders explained that he expected the organization to contact him after drafting Hunter with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
During an appearance on “The Barbershop” podcast, Sanders questioned why the Jaguars never reached out to discuss Hunter’s personality, motivation, or playing style. Sanders coached Hunter for three seasons and helped transform him into one of college football’s biggest stars.
The former Colorado coach believes his experience with Hunter could help Jacksonville maximize the young player’s talent. Hunter played both wide receiver and cornerback in college while maintaining elite production on both sides of the ball.
Travis Hunter Became a Star Under Coach Prime
Hunter first joined Sanders at Jackson State Tigers before following him to the Colorado Buffaloes. Under Sanders’ guidance, Hunter developed into a dynamic two-way player and eventually won the Heisman Trophy in 2024.
Sanders carefully managed Hunter’s workload during college. That strategy allowed Hunter to handle heavy snap counts while avoiding major fatigue issues during key games. Many analysts believe that experience could benefit Jacksonville as the franchise plans Hunter’s NFL role.
The Jaguars traded significant draft capital to move from the No. 5 pick to No. 2 in order to select Hunter. Because of that investment, some NFL observers expected the organization to seek advice from the coach who understood Hunter best.
NFL Analysts Support Sanders’ Argument
Several football analysts sided with Sanders after his comments became public. Many believe the Jaguars missed an opportunity to gather valuable information about one of the league’s most unique young players.
NFL writer Mike Florio argued that even if Jacksonville planned to develop Hunter differently, speaking with Sanders still made sense. Florio explained that understanding Hunter’s mindset, recovery habits, and practice routine could help the coaching staff build a better long-term strategy.
Hunter’s ability to contribute on offense and defense remains one of the biggest storylines entering the upcoming NFL season. Few modern players have attempted to maintain a full-time two-way role at the professional level.
Read more >> Rory McIlroy Struggles as PGA Championship Round One Produces Tight Leaderboard
“Daddy Ball” Criticism Still Follows Sanders
Despite Sanders’ success with Hunter, critics continue to question his coaching approach. Some observers believe the Jaguars avoided involving Sanders because of the “Daddy Ball” criticism that surrounded Colorado football during the 2023 and 2024 seasons.
Those accusations claimed Sanders gave special treatment to certain players, including Hunter and his son, Shedeur Sanders. Although many fans defended Sanders, the narrative continued throughout his coaching tenure at Colorado.
NFL organizations often prefer to keep outside influence away from player development decisions. Some analysts believe Jacksonville wants complete control over Hunter’s transition to the professional game without creating additional distractions.
Still, Sanders’ supporters argue that ignoring his experience could hurt the Jaguars in the long run. Hunter’s workload management, conditioning, and preparation methods helped him thrive in college football’s toughest situations.
Read more >> Paper Tiger Movie (2026): Cast, Storyline, Release Date & Review
Jaguars Players Believe Hunter Can Handle Both Roles
Inside the Jaguars organization, confidence in Hunter remains extremely high. Arik Armstead recently praised Hunter’s rare athletic ability during an interview on “Good Morning Football.”
Armstead described Hunter as a “unicorn” who can succeed anywhere on the field. He also expressed excitement about Hunter returning to full health after recovering from last season’s knee injury.
Jacksonville’s coaching staff has repeatedly confirmed that Hunter will continue playing both offense and defense in the NFL. However, his exact snap distribution may change compared to college.
General manager James Gladstone previously mentioned an expected increase in Hunter’s defensive responsibilities this season. The Jaguars likely plan to use him heavily at cornerback while still creating offensive opportunities.
Armstead emphasized that Hunter brings energy, versatility, and playmaking ability to the entire roster. His teammates believe he can become one of the NFL’s most exciting young stars if he stays healthy.
Jaguars Face Major Decisions With Travis Hunter
The Jaguars now face the difficult challenge of balancing Hunter’s offensive and defensive workload. The organization must protect his long-term health while still maximizing his rare skill set.
Hunter’s success could reshape how NFL teams evaluate two-way players in the future. If Jacksonville manages his development correctly, Hunter may become one of football’s most valuable weapons.
Meanwhile, Sanders continues to watch from afar. Even without direct involvement, the Colorado coach clearly believes he still has valuable insight that could help Hunter succeed at the next level.
