With the NFL Draft order shifting dramatically, the Jacksonville Jaguars may have a golden opportunity to land Colorado superstar Travis Hunter. Here’s why they should act fast.
The Jacksonville Jaguars, sitting at the No. 5 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, suddenly find themselves in a much better position to acquire one of the most talked-about prospects in years: Colorado Buffaloes star Travis Hunter. Thanks to a surprising Week 18 loss by the Buffalo Bills, the New England Patriots dropped from the top spot to No. 4, potentially opening the door for Jacksonville to strike a deal.
Why Travis Hunter is worth the leap
Hunter is widely regarded as a generational talent, capable of dominating on both sides of the ball as an elite wide receiver and defensive back. The thought of pairing him with Jaguars standout Brian Thomas Jr. would give quarterback Trevor Lawrence a dynamic, game-changing duo that could redefine the offense for years to come.
Hunter’s ability to line up in multiple roles also brings versatility and unpredictability to any team fortunate enough to draft him—a trait that could elevate Jacksonville’s roster to serious contender status.
What’s changed in the draft order
Initially, the Patriots seemed poised to secure the top pick, leading many to assume they’d either draft Hunter or trade the selection for a lucrative package. However, after falling to No. 4, the cost for teams like the Jaguars to trade up has dropped significantly.
The Patriots, already set at quarterback with Drake Maye, are likely weighing their options. They could select Hunter outright, but their roster’s extensive needs—ranging from offensive line upgrades to secondary depth—make them prime candidates to trade down for additional draft capital.
Why the Patriots might listen
For New England, the decision comes down to priorities. Hunter would undoubtedly provide an immediate boost, especially given the Patriots’ need for a true No. 1 wide receiver. But trading down to stockpile picks could address multiple roster deficiencies and better position the team for long-term success.
The Jaguars, armed with a roster that’s already playoff-caliber, are in a prime position to tempt New England with a strong trade package. A combination of future first-rounders and mid-round selections could be enough to sway the Patriots.
Hunter in Jacksonville: A tantalizing scenario
Imagine Trevor Lawrence throwing to a receiving corps headlined by Hunter and Thomas Jr., with the potential for Hunter to moonlight as a shutdown cornerback. It’s a move that could electrify Jacksonville’s offense while adding depth and versatility to its defense.
The Jaguars’ late-season wins initially seemed to remove them from contention for Hunter, but the latest draft shake-up has brought the dream back into focus. Trading up to No. 4 isn’t just plausible—it’s a move that could propel Jacksonville into Super Bowl contention.
What’s the risk?
The primary concern for Jacksonville is the cost of trading up. While acquiring Hunter would be a massive win, sacrificing too much draft capital could hinder the team’s ability to address other needs. The Jaguars must strike a balance between boldness and prudence, ensuring the trade enhances the roster without depleting future assets.
The bottom line
The opportunity to draft a generational talent like Travis Hunter doesn’t come often. If the Patriots are willing to deal, the Jaguars should aggressively pursue the trade. With Hunter’s skill set and Jacksonville’s already formidable roster, the potential rewards far outweigh the risks.
As the draft approaches, this blockbuster scenario could become one of the offseason’s biggest storylines. Whether it’s Hunter in Duval or another bold move, the Jaguars have a chance to make waves in 2025.
