Travis Hunter Returns to Jaguars Training Camp Stronger After Knee Surgery Sidelines Rookie Season

Travis Hunter, the Jacksonville Jaguars’ second overall draft pick and 2023 Heisman Trophy winner from Colorado, is back on the practice field following reconstructive surgery on his right knee. Hunter underwent the procedure on November 11 to repair a lateral collateral ligament injury sustained during noncontact drills that ended his rookie season after just seven games. During his limited playing time, the versatile defender recorded 324 snaps at receiver and 162 snaps at cornerback.

The Jaguars’ plan to deploy Hunter on both sides of the ball remains unchanged, particularly after the team re-signed cornerback Montaric “Buster” Brown in March. Head coach Liam Coen said the staff has meticulously charted Hunter’s return-to-play progression, highlighting his reps and positioning on every practice schedule to balance easing him back while providing the additional repetitions a two-way player requires.

Hunter has used his nine-month recovery period to add approximately 10 pounds of muscle to his upper body while improving his overall speed. A recent clocking at the team’s facility measured him running at 22.6 mph, prompting Hunter to set his next target at 23 mph. Defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile noted the physical transformation is evident during both individual drills and team periods.

The Jaguars invested significantly in Hunter, trading their fifth overall pick from last year and their first overall selection this year to move up for him. The team won nine of its last 10 games following Hunter’s injury to capture the AFC South title, underscoring the value they place on his return to full health and production.