Travis Hunter has signed his rookie contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars, sealing his place as one of the most anticipated additions to the roster in recent memory. The organization confirmed the signing with two separate announcements on Sunday—one declaring the arrival of defensive back Travis Hunter, and another highlighting wide receiver Travis Hunter.

Only minor elements of the deal were negotiable. Under the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement, rookie contract amounts are tied directly to draft position. As this year’s No. 2 overall pick, Hunter will earn \$46.65 million fully guaranteed over four years, with the Jaguars holding a fifth-year team option.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Hunter is set to receive his full \$30.57 million signing bonus up front. That payment structure marks a milestone, as he becomes the first non-quarterback not selected first overall to negotiate his full bonus as a lump-sum payout at the start of his deal.

Though the contract delay extended past organized team activities and into mandatory minicamp, the signing removes any possibility of a holdout ahead of training camp. The Jaguars’ rookies, including Hunter, are due to report on July 19.

Hunter was all in—even before the contract

Despite the formalities of the unsigned deal, Hunter was fully engaged during the team’s offseason programs. He took part in both OTAs and minicamp, gaining critical reps and early chemistry with his new teammates.

Jacksonville made a significant move to land the Heisman winner, trading up from the No. 5 spot in April’s draft to secure the second pick from the Cleveland Browns. To finalize the deal, the Jaguars sent Cleveland their 2025 first-rounder and a second-round pick in this year’s draft in addition to their original fifth pick. That second-round pick allowed the Browns to select Ohio State running back Quinshon Judkins.

Where Hunter fits in Jacksonville’s plans

Hunter brings elite upside on both sides of the ball, capable of impacting games as either a cornerback or wide receiver. The Jaguars haven’t confirmed his primary position, but early signs suggest he will see significant time on offense as the franchise looks to maximize quarterback Trevor Lawrence’s potential. Lawrence, a Pro Bowler in his second season, has struggled to maintain consistency over the last two years. Jacksonville made the playoffs in 2022 but failed to return since then, finishing 9-8 and 4-13 in back-to-back seasons. His performance hasn’t lived up to the expectations he carried as a top draft pick and supposed franchise cornerstone. Hunter’s addition increases the pressure on Lawrence heading into his fifth season. With a dynamic new target and the spotlight returning to Jacksonville, the Jaguars will look to end their postseason drought and move back into contention in the AFC.

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