How Long Will Travis Hunter Be Out? A Look at When the Jaguars WR Will Return From Devastating Injury

The Jacksonville Jaguars are prepared for an extended period without one of their most promising young players. Travis Hunter’s rookie season ended sooner than expected. While the surgery provided reassurance, the further timeline leaves fans and the organization with unanswered questions as to what his return will look like.

Travis Hunter’s recovery timeline after LCL surgery

Travis Hunter’s season was cut short after he underwent surgical repair of his lateral collateral ligament on November 11 following a non-contact knee injury suffered during an October 30 practice.

The operation, performed by Dr. Dan Cooper along with Jaguars team physician Dr. Kevin Kaplan, confirmed that there was no additional damage, and earlier imaging had shown that his ACL was intact. The injury was caused by a separation of the LCL, a vital stabilizing structure on the outside of the knee.

According to medical estimates, his full return to football activities will be approximately six months after the surgery. This projected schedule puts him back on the field around May 2026, and ties him in line with the lead up to 2026 training camp. As PFSN’s Nicholas Curry reported, the Jaguars later clarified that he would not return this year.

Curry said the Jaguars have changed their passing-game structure without Hunter, with Parker Washington and Jakobi Meyers emerging as Trevor Lawrence’s primary targets. Additionally, the team also manages the injury situation of Brian Thomas Jr.

Before his season ended, Hunter displayed two-way ability that made him the No. 2 overall draft pick. He totaled 28 receptions for 298 yards and one touchdown in seven games, playing significant offensive snaps.

PFSN’s WR Impact metric reflected that performance, giving him a WR Impact score of 67.9, a D+ grade, and a 70th-place season rank, with an overall player ranking of 549th since 2019. The metrics confirmed his 45 targets, 28 receptions, 298 yards and one touchdown, providing statistical context for his brief rookie campaign.

Hunter’s absence forces the Jaguars to recalibrate both offensively and defensively. The offense loses a versatile pass catcher, while the secondary will have to adapt without a talented defensive back capable of contributing on both sides of the ball. Still, the organization is encouraged by the clean surgical results and focused long-term recovery approach.

As of 2026, team officials have stated that it is too early to determine whether Hunter will resume duties on offense and defense. Some experts believe his return may initially emphasize getting the work done before the gradual reintroduction of defensive snaps. What is certain is the Jaguars’ commitment to ensuring his full rehabilitation before expanding his role.