Travis Hunter has yet to play a single minute in the NFL, and he is already making headlines, as, according to information from journalist Adam Schefter, the Jacksonville Jaguars player has already signed his rookie contract last Sunday and it would be for a record figure.
The Jaguars rookie’s contract would have a total figure of $46.6 million, including a $30.57 million signing bonus delivered in full at the time of signing, something unprecedented for a non-quarterback who was not selected with the first overall pick.
Faced with this historic figure, former NFL MVP Cam Newton was quick to show his support for Hunter, whom he considers a unique talent capable of transforming the contractual norms in the league:
He’s the first of his kind. People are not valuing what Travis Hunter is doing… if you’re a receiver, defensive back or just an athlete, you’re rooting for his success. Why? Because he could be the first to earn anything remotely close to what a quarterback makes
The highest-paid rookies in the NFL
Currently, 11 quarterbacks in the NFL earn more than $50 million per season, while the highest-paid non-quarterback is wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase at $40.25 million. Hunter, thanks to his ability to play both offense and defense, could break that barrier and lead a new era of compensation for versatile athletes.
Jacksonville general manager James Gladstone, who is in his first year in charge, took a risky decision to move up in the draft to select Hunter with the second overall pick. But the young player’s talent, versatility and potential seem to fully justify the investment.
Now the Jaguars add to an already long list of young talent that includes prospects such as Trevor Lawrence, Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen, all selected in the top 10 of their respective drafts. In addition, Hunter’s offensive teammate, Brian Thomas Jr., had an outstanding rookie season with 1,282 receiving yards and a Pro Bowl call-up
And while this is a bet for the future, it is clear that the Jaguars also aspire to compete for the AFC South title sooner than expected.
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