Jaguars will play all starters in preseason opener, including Travis Hunter both ways
All Hands On Deck for Jaguars' Preseason Opener
Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Liam Coen is throwing caution to the wind for Saturday's preseason opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
"We will play everybody," Coen stated, confirming that even the team's starters are set for action. This includes rookie phenom Travis Hunter, who was selected second overall in this year's draft and is poised to make history by playing both wide receiver and cornerback. While the Jaguars have been cautious about overloading Hunter with responsibilities, Coen made it clear his game plan involves reps at both positions.
Veteran Voices Drive Preseason Push
Coen revealed that the team's veteran leaders, including quarterback Trevor Lawrence and center Robert Hainsey, were instrumental in pushing for a full-fledged preseason effort. "He was one of the guys that kind of convinced me," Coen said of Hainsey. "He came in the weight room on his day off, we talked about it — he wanted to play, a lot of the guys want to play."
Fresh Faces and Familiar Names Take the Field
This Saturday marks the first chance for fans to witness the Jaguars' new offense and defense under Coen's leadership. It also offers the highly anticipated debut of last year's Heisman Trophy winner playing on both sides of the ball at the NFL level.