What changed
2026-08-19 03:52 UTC → 2026-08-19 17:41 UTC ·
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In late July, the Jaguars’ training camp highlighted rookie defensive end Zach Durfee, who recorded a tackle for loss and a sack, and underscored the ambiguous role of cornerback‑wide receiver hybrid Travis Hunter, who was seen lining up on offense and could shift between positions throughout the season. A week later, the focus broadened to the team’s upcoming 2026 campaign. After a 13‑4 finish in 2025, analysts projected a regression because of a tougher schedule, with odds suggesting fewer than nine wins. Coaches reiterated concerns about managing Hunter’s dual‑position duties without hindering his development, emphasizing the need to balance his contributions on both sides of the ball. As training camp entered enters its final stages in mid-August, stages, the team’s Jaguars’ tactical focus has shifted toward backfield flexibility. Running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. has emerged as a key figure in a rotation that may utilize “pony” packages featuring two receiving-capable backs, moving away from the heavy jumbo packages used in previous years. While Regarding Travis Hunter Hunter, the team has continued to demonstrate high-level coverage skills during full-pads practices, begun more actively managing his dual-position role has seen a recent heavy emphasis to prioritize defensive development. Head coach Liam Coen recently limited Hunter to defensive snaps during 11-on-11 work, allowing him only five offensive snaps during 7-on-7 drills. Coen stated this adjustment is intended to provide Hunter with more “mental and visual repetitions on cornerback duties despite the defensive side of the ball,” enabling him to better absorb coaching and scheme adjustments by remaining active on offense. However, these the defensive sideline. These developments are tempered by mounting injury concerns: running back LeQuint Allen Jr. is considered week-to-week, offensive lineman Wyatt Milum is day-to-day, and safety Parker Washington is expected to miss the remainder of the week.