Jaguars Rookie Travis Hunter Pass Interference Costs Narrow Bengals Loss

The Jacksonville Jaguars suffered a narrow 31-27 defeat to the Cincinnati Bengals, with rookie two-way player Travis Hunter's late-game pass interference penalty playing a crucial role in the loss. Hunter, the Jaguars' second overall pick in 2025, was thrust into extended defensive duty following an injury to starting cornerback Jarrian Jones and was flagged twice, including on a critical fourth-and-five that extended the Bengals' final drive, allowing backup quarterback Jake Browning to score the game-winning touchdown. Despite the penalty, Hunter showed promise both offensively, with three catches for 22 yards, and defensively, but acknowledged the need to improve and avoid costly mistakes. Jaguars coach Liam Coen defended Hunter's overall performance and competitiveness, while the team and fans questioned the controversial call, believing Hunter's pass breakup was clean and the penalty questionable. The Jaguars' offense struggled with turnovers and red zone efficiency, and the defense, despite strong pressure from players like Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen, could not stop the Bengals' late scoring drive. Hunter remains committed to embracing his dual-role workload and growing from the experience despite the painful loss.