Jaguars weigh Hunter's Saints preseason status amid injury

The Jacksonville Jaguars are weighing the immediate impact of a precautionary upper-body injury to rookie Travis Hunter, with the two-way Heisman Trophy winner missing practice and his availability for the upcoming preseason game at New Orleans in question. Coaches described the issue as minor and precautionary, but the uncertainty surrounding Hunter’s status highlights the tightrope the franchise is walking as it evaluates how to deploy him in his first NFL season.

Hunter did not participate in any of the four team periods during the August 15 session at the team facility, the first time he missed practice since camp began. He had played in several snaps the day before in a scrimmage, including time on both offense and defense, signaling how integral the organization anticipates his dual-role contribution to be. The coaching staff indicated the plan is to protect the player while ensuring he remains connected to the game plan, with Hunter carrying a playcalling sheet and staying engaged in the action even when not on the field.

The injury comes as the Jaguars trim down to decisions about playing time in the upcoming exhibition slate. Hunter’s availability is particularly...