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Travis Hunter has captivated football fans with his fearless two-way dominance at the collegiate level, but as he enters the NFL, one veteran defender is sounding the alarm.
Lavonte David, a 13-year NFL linebacker and leader of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is the latest to weigh in on Hunter's bold plan to play both wide receiver and cornerback for the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Known for his football IQ and leadership, David didn't shy away when asked about the feasibility of Hunter playing both ways in the league.
In a recent Barstool Sports segment with Jon Gruden, the conversation shifted to Hunter's arrival in the NFL and Jacksonville's intention to use him on offense and defense.
"When you look at Travis Hunter, coming in from Colorado, and everybody's saying he's going to play wide out and corner, I started thinking, not in this heat, man," Gruden said. "But do you think he can do it both ways?"
David's response was blunt. "I think he can... I'm sure he's a proud(full) guy. He wants to do it, but it's a different beast, man."
NFL demands could derail two-way dreams
David's comments were less about Hunter's talent and more about the brutal reality of the NFL. In college, Hunter's athleticism and instincts allowed him to thrive in both roles.
But the pros bring another level of intensity-longer seasons, more complex schemes, and a physical toll that even elite players rarely escape.
David offered insight from a place of respect but made clear that sustaining two-way duties in the NFL is almost impossible.
"They're going to try to, like, manage him and make him a focal point on one side of the ball, wherever it may be... I think they're going to try to take care of him as much as they can," he added.
That comment reflects a broader concern: will Jacksonville's high investment in Hunter ultimately force them to choose one position over the other?
While the Jaguars remain committed to their vision, critics have already begun to question the plan. Hunter's early practices this offseason sparked concern after video clips surfaced showing him mishandling routes, struggling with timing, and dropping es-without even wearing gloves. Harsh social media reactions followed.
"Generational they said... looks average as any WR," one posted. Another added, "He purposely being bad so they finally put him with the DBs."