Jaguars shake up NFL draft, trade up for Travis hunter at No. 2
Pranjal Chandra | Apr 25, 2025, 23:57 IST
In a stunning move, the Jacksonville Jaguars traded up to secure Travis Hunter, the versatile two-way star from Colorado, with the second overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. The Cleveland Browns traded down, selecting defensive tackle Mason Graham, passing on quarterbacks in a perceived weak class.
In a bold move that electrified the early moments of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Jacksonville Jaguars traded up from the fifth overall pick to select Travis Hunter with the second pick. The trade, executed just minutes into the first round, marked a defining moment for the Jaguars' new general manager, James Gladstone, who is already making his imprint on the franchise.
Hunter, widely regarded as the most versatile player in the draft, is a rare two-way standout who excelled at both wide receiver and cornerback for the University of Colorado. Under the mentorship of head coach Deion Sanders, Hunter built a reputation as a dynamic playmaker with elite instincts and athleticism.
Last season, Hunter hauled in 96 receptions for 1,238 yards and 15 touchdowns, averaging 12.9 yards per catch. On defense, he recorded 36 tackles, four interceptions, and 11 passes defended, showcasing his ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball a rarity in today’s game.
The Jaguars’ decision to move up in the draft was a direct reflection of Gladstone’s philosophy, which he laid out during his introductory press conference earlier this year.
Hunter, with his charisma, work ethic, and athleticism, fits that mold perfectly. His addition could significantly elevate the Jaguars' offense and secondary, providing a much-needed boost to both units. He also gives quarterback Trevor Lawrence, the 2021 No. 1 overall pick, a legitimate game-breaking weapon.
In exchange for the No. 2 pick, the Cleveland Browns received Jacksonville’s No. 5 pick and likely additional draft compensation (terms were not immediately disclosed). With the fifth pick, the Browns selected Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham, choosing to reinforce their defensive line rather than take a quarterback.
The move raised eyebrows given the Browns’ ongoing struggles at quarterback. Team owner Jimmy Haslam recently admitted that the franchise’s investment in Deshaun Watson was a “big swing and miss.” Despite the need, Cleveland’s decision suggests they were not impressed by this year’s crop of quarterbacks or are looking ahead to next year’s class, which could feature names like Arch Manning and Drew Allar.
While quarterbacks typically dominate the early rounds of the draft, this year has seen a surprising lack of urgency from teams seeking a new signal-caller. Analysts have noted that the 2025 quarterback class lacks a consensus elite prospect, which may have contributed to the Browns’ trade down and the Jaguars’ focus on a player like Hunter.
With Travis Hunter now in Jacksonville, the league will be watching closely to see how head coach Doug Pederson integrates the versatile star into the Jaguars’ system. Hunter is expected to play primarily on offense, but his defensive talents may still be utilized situationally, especially given his knack for turnovers and big plays.
His arrival also signals the Jaguars’ commitment to building around Trevor Lawrence by giving him elite weapons and a more dynamic offense. If Hunter lives up to the hype, the Jaguars may have secured a franchise-altering talent and taken the first major step toward playoff contention in the AFC South.
Travis Hunter: a generational talent
Last season, Hunter hauled in 96 receptions for 1,238 yards and 15 touchdowns, averaging 12.9 yards per catch. On defense, he recorded 36 tackles, four interceptions, and 11 passes defended, showcasing his ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball a rarity in today’s game.
Jaguars bet big on Hunter’s star power
Hunter, with his charisma, work ethic, and athleticism, fits that mold perfectly. His addition could significantly elevate the Jaguars' offense and secondary, providing a much-needed boost to both units. He also gives quarterback Trevor Lawrence, the 2021 No. 1 overall pick, a legitimate game-breaking weapon.
Cleveland Browns trade down, select Mason Graham
The move raised eyebrows given the Browns’ ongoing struggles at quarterback. Team owner Jimmy Haslam recently admitted that the franchise’s investment in Deshaun Watson was a “big swing and miss.” Despite the need, Cleveland’s decision suggests they were not impressed by this year’s crop of quarterbacks or are looking ahead to next year’s class, which could feature names like Arch Manning and Drew Allar.
Quarterbacks fall in weak class
Hunter and Lawrence duo takes center stage
His arrival also signals the Jaguars’ commitment to building around Trevor Lawrence by giving him elite weapons and a more dynamic offense. If Hunter lives up to the hype, the Jaguars may have secured a franchise-altering talent and taken the first major step toward playoff contention in the AFC South.