Big question facing Jaguars wide receiver position heading into minicamp
Article excerpt
The Jacksonville Jaguars head into minicamp with uncertainty at wide receiver, a position group that could shape their offensive identity. The team must decide whether to rely on established veterans, develop younger talent, or balance both approaches. This preview examines what coaches will prioritize during the practice sessions and which receivers could emerge as key contributors for the coming season.
Mandatory minicamp will take place for the Jacksonville Jaguars from June 9-11. This is often the last big milestone in the NFL offseason calendar before training camp arrives in late July.
Through the first two weeks of OTA practices, we've gained some valuable insights into where things stand on the depth chart, along with who may be standing out early on, but questions at each position group remain, and that's normal at this time of the year. It won't be until training camp and the preseason take place that playing time and final roster decisions are made.
So as part of our Jaguars' minicamp preview, let's highlight the one big question facing each position group. Up next are the wide receivers.
How many snaps will Travis Hunter play at wide receiver this season?
Hunter is still sidelined, working his way back from the knee injury he sustained last season. Back in April, GM James Gladstone said that the plan for Hunter was for him to be at "full tick" come training camp.
However, much of the conversation this offseason has been around Hunter's playing time on offense and defense. The expectation is that Hunter will see more opportunities on defense this season compared to last, as he is the presumed starting cornerback opposite of Montaric Brown.
That said, both James Gladstone and Liam Coen have made it clear, on multiple occasions this offseason, that Hunter will continue to see snaps at wideout as well.
With Brian Thomas Jr., Parker Washington, and Jakobi Meyers, the Jaguars are positioned very well at wideout. We also anticipate seeing more two or even three-tight-end sets from this offense this season as well.
So while we know that Hunter will have a regular role, what it looks like remains to be seen. The Jaguars have often remained fluid with Hunter's usage, so weekly matchups and in-game situations could help dictate what his opportunities at wideout look like.
The last time we saw Hunte on the field, he eclipsed the 100-yard receiving mark against the LA Rams and scored his first NFL touchdown.
This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: Jaguars minicamp preview: Question facing wide receiver position