The Jacksonville Jaguars may have drafted Travis Hunter for his offensive firepower, but don’t expect his defensive skills to sit on the shelf-and star pass rusher Arik Armstead says that’s exactly what makes the rookie a game-changer.
“This is rare air,” Armstead told TMZ Sports, after personally announcing the Jaguars’ bold draft move. “We have a player who would’ve been a first-rounder as a receiver or a cornerback. That’s basically unheard of.”
The Jags shocked the NFL world by trading up from the No. 5 pick to No. 2, leapfrogging to snag the electric two-way phenom-someone Armstead says will absolutely impact the defense, even if he’s not always lining up there.
“Coach [Liam Coen] said he’ll start on offense and sprinkle him into defense,” Armstead shared. “We’re excited. He’s dynamic. He’s gonna bring something totally different to our team.”
Hunter will have his chance on offense and defense
Hunter, who received the Heisman Trophy excelling at both wide receiver and cornerback at Colorado, now steps into a Jags lineup hungry for a spark on both sides of the ball.
And Armstead, the NFL’s reigning Walter Payton Man of the Year, believes Hunter’s elite ball skills will eventually translate into interceptions, momentum shifts, and a defensive identity boost.
The moment the trade with the Browns went down, Armstead-who was backstage with none other than Lil Wayne and Commissioner Roger Goodell-knew what was coming. “Everyone knew once we moved up to two… it was Travis.”
Armstead can’t wait to play with Hunter
Armstead also reflected on his off-field honors, noting that being named Man of the Year was one of the most meaningful recognitions of his life. Still, he’s clearly fired up for what lies ahead on the field-especially now that he’s sharing a locker room with one of the most versatile rookies the league has ever seen.
“You can’t teach what he brings,” Armstead said. “It’s going to be fun to watch-and hell for the other team.”