The Jacksonville Jaguars suffered a crushing 31-27 defeat to the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium on Sunday. The loss came after a controversial fourth-and-five pass interference call against rookie Travis Hunter that kept Cincinnati’s game-winning drive alive.
Hunter was flagged for interference while covering Ja’Marr Chase in what could have been a game-sealing defensive stop for Jacksonville.
“I just can’t make it, I can’t leave it up to the refs. I just got to do my job, put myself in a better position.”
The former Colorado standout has been playing both sides of the ball for the Jaguars. He logged extended defensive snaps Sunday after injuries depleted Jacksonville’s secondary.
Hunter welcomed the opportunity to match up against Chase and Tee Higgins. Both receivers are established stars in the AFC.
“It was great for me early in my career to go against those two guys. They have established themselves in this league so it was great for me.”
“I was prepared for the moment, prepared to do my job. I just gotta make a couple more plays.”
Travis Hunter on playing more defensive snaps #JAXvsCIN. pic.twitter.com/9hgRu8YIk4
— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) September 14, 2025
Hunter didn’t shy away from taking responsibility for other mistakes that hurt Jacksonville’s offensive rhythm. The rookie was flagged multiple times for illegal shifts during the game.
“We was not fully locked in. I think I had two of those illegal shifts or three of those. I still got to do my job and the other guys just got to do their job.”
The two-way player also defended teammate Brian Thomas Jr. after the rookie receiver dropped a crucial fourth-down pass earlier in the contest.
“I just tell him to keep his head up. I am going to have his back no matter if he is right wrong or does something that we know is not in his character.”
Hunter remains committed to his unique role despite the setback Sunday. The physical demands of playing both offense and defense at the NFL level continue to draw skepticism from analysts.
“This is definitely what I want to do. A lot of people are going to continue to doubt me but I just got to go out there and do my job.”
The loss drops Jacksonville’s record and highlighted the growing pains that come with relying heavily on rookie contributors. Hunter’s dual responsibilities make him one of the most closely watched first-year players in the league.
