Jacksonville Jaguars rookie cornerback Travis Hunter has recovered the football from his first NFL interception after a sideline dispute during Sunday’s 35-6 victory over the New England Patriots.
What changed for the franchise
Hunter intercepted Patriots quarterback Drake Maye late in the second quarter, climbing to take away a throw intended for New England wide receiver Efton Chism III. The turnover protected Jacksonville’s 14-3 advantage heading into halftime.
The 2025 Heisman Trophy winner and No. 2 overall pick out of Colorado celebrated by spinning the ball and dancing in the end zone. But the ball was collected by a Patriots ball boy, setting off a confrontation as Jaguars defensive end Josh Hines-Allen attempted to secure it for Hunter.
Video showed the ball boy refusing to hand over the football and telling Hines-Allen, “You can’t touch me,” while appearing to push the Jaguars veteran away. Hines-Allen tried to dislodge the ball before Jacksonville equipment manager George Pellicer stepped in and helped resolve the situation.
The Jaguars confirmed Monday that Hunter ultimately received the game ball. Players may keep footballs from significant plays, though the league charges them for the memorabilia.
Head coach Liam Coen said earlier Monday that Jacksonville had been working with New England to settle the matter.
“We have been communicating with them,” Coen said. “I believe they have it worked out, but I cannot say with certainty whether we have the exact ball. Something happened there, but it appears to be resolved. We will handle it.”
Hunter credited Jacksonville’s defensive preparation and communication for creating the interception opportunity.
“The coaching staff put together a great plan,” Hunter said. “It was the right call. Everyone on my side communicated, and I made the play.”
Cornerback Jourdan Lewis said the Jaguars understood immediately that Hunter’s first career takeaway needed to be preserved, even if the rookie did not seem focused on keeping the ball at the time.
“It was Travis’ first pick, so everyone knew we had to get it,” Lewis said. “Josh took it upon himself to go get the football. Travis did not help by spinning it and walking away from it, but that is a ball you always want to save, especially for a moment like that.
“That responsibility belongs to the whole team, not just one person. Everybody is trying to make sure it gets back to him.”
