Hunter on Sunday is expected to start at cornerback, where he practiced extensively during the last weeks of training camp. Defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile on Thursday called Hunter’s extra work there “a great thing” in terms of increased timing and cohesion with the defense.
“Having him with us a little bit more, that’s been good for all that,” Campanile said. “We do a fair amount on defense, so there is a lot of communication, and we really rely on that at every position.
“His communication in the meetings, on the field, and anytime you get more of an opportunity to do that, the players get more of an opportunity to do that amongst each other.”
Added Hunter, “It just helped a lot being able to be comfortable when I’m on the field with the guys, let them know that they can trust me. I’m going to be able to do my job. I’m going to be in the right spot when I need to be.”
Hunter will now be exactly back where he said he is supposed to be: On the field, playing an important role for the Jaguars as they look to get off to a fast start in Week 1.
“Everybody knows I can’t sit on the sideline,” he said. “I don’t like sitting on the sideline.”
Right tackle Cole Van Lanen (knee) was listed as limited Thursday on the Jaguars’ second injury report of the week, with running back LeQuint Allen Jr. (hip) listed as limited Thursday after not practicing Wednesday. Wide receiver Jakobi Meyers (hip) was listed as limited for a second consecutive day Thursday. Jaguars Head Coach Liam Coen on Wednesday said Van Lanen likely will be a game-time decision Sunday, with Meyers on Wednesday saying he will play Sunday.