Travis Hunter Signs Historic $46.65M Rookie Deal with Jaguars | NFL Wires

Travis Hunter Signs Historic $46.65M Rookie Deal with Jaguars | NFL Wires

Jaguar’s No. 2 pick Travis Hunter inks a four-year, $46.65 million fully guaranteed rookie contract with a record signing bonus upfront—details and analysis on NFL Wires.

Introduction

Travis Hunter, the Jacksonville Jaguars’ dynamic two-way rookie and former Heisman winner, has officially signed a historic four-year, $46.65 million contract, featuring a league-first upfront $30.57 million signing bonus—the richest initial payout for any non-QB not selected first overall.

Contract Breakdown

• Duration & Value: 4 years, $46,649,114 fully guaranteed

• Signing Bonus: $30,566,628 paid in full upon signing

• Fifth-Year Option: Available based on snap distribution (offense vs defense) 

• Base Salaries:

  • Year 1: ~$840,000

  • Year 2: ~$2.96 million

  • Year 3: ~$5.08 million

  • Year 4: ~$7.20 million

Historic Record

Hunter becomes the first non-quarterback who was not the first overall pick to receive his entire signing bonus upfront. Typically, teams stagger bonuses—but Hunter’s deal defies precedent, reflecting both his value and the Jaguars’ commitment.

Jaguars’ Bold Statement

General Manager James Gladstone expressed that the investment is a statement—not just in Hunter’s talent, but in his potential to fundamentally shift the team's direction.

Coach Liam Coen confirmed the team’s plan to initially ease Hunter into one-side practices before ramping up his two-way role in the regular season.

Contract Implications

• Financial Security: Immediate access to his $30.57M bonus provides Hunter with stability and leverage.

• Performance Motivation: The fifth-year option lets the Jaguars evaluate Hunter’s on-field usage before a potential extension.

• Two-Way Compensation: Under current CBA rules, his dual-role won’t affect this deal—but future contracts could reflect that versatility.

NFL Wires Analysis

Travis Hunter’s rookie contract is more than historic—it’s transformational. The Jaguars' willingness to pay such a significant bonus upfront signals confidence in Hunter's rare two-way skillset. While the fifth-year option ensures flexibility, his initial financial security gives him room to focus fully on on-field impact.

With his contract signed, Hunter can now complete his transition—training as both cornerback and wide receiver—and prove the Jags right in betting big on a generational talent.

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