Travis Hunter made a return to Colorado as his Jacksonville Jaguars prepared to face the Denver Broncos in a pivotal Week 16 matchup. However, the 22-year-old star was seen navigating the area on crutches, highlighting the ongoing challenges of a serious knee injury that has sidelined him since late October.
Having spent two impactful years with the Colorado Buffaloes, where he contributed significantly to the team’s resurgence and earned a Heisman Trophy last year, Hunter’s rookie season in the NFL came to an abrupt halt after he suffered a severe knee injury during practice ahead of the Jaguars’ Week 9 game. Although he has not taken the field since then, there are signs of recovery; he was recently spotted in Colorado wearing a brace on his surgically repaired right knee.
The Jaguars enter their clash against the Broncos on a remarkable six-game winning streak. This impressive run includes a significant victory against the previously undefeated Broncos, marking a high point for the team. As Jacksonville now stands at 11-4, they are on the brink of clinching a playoff berth, contingent on the Indianapolis Colts’ performance against the San Francisco 49ers.
Despite the optimism surrounding the Jaguars’ playoff ambitions, Hunter’s return this season appears unlikely. The knee injury, diagnosed as a torn LCL with an intact ACL, has kept him from participating in any competitive play, and his ongoing use of crutches and a knee brace suggests he will not be ready for the playoffs. However, there is hope for next season, as medical expectations indicate he could resume “full football activities” by May, in time for training camp. This timeline has fans and the Jaguars organization looking forward to a promising 2026 season with Hunter back in action.