Travis Hunter new haircut, explained: Why Jaguars star rookie shaved head before NFL debut

Gilbert McGregor

Travis Hunter new haircut, explained: Why Jaguars star rookie shaved head before NFL debut image

In preparation for a much-anticipated NFL debut, Jacksonville Jaguars two-way standout Travis Hunter is debuting a new look.

Fans who have gotten used to Hunter's hair flowing while he makes plays on both sides of the football will have to get used to something else, as the 22-year-old seemingly switched things up in the last minute before his first-ever regular-season game.

Here's what to know about the Heisman Trophy winner's new haircut.

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Travis Hunter new haircut

Hunter debuted a new close haircut as he walked into EverBank Stadium for his NFL debut against the Carolina Panthers in Week 1 of the 2025 season.

"Dang, bruh, a new chopped cheese," an excited Hunter said of his haircut to the Jaguars' social media team Sunday morning.

MORE: The best from Travis Hunter's NFL debut vs. Panthers

Unsurprisingly, Hunter's excitement was at its typical level as the NFL's social team captured him once he made it into the stadium. He flashed his trademark smile and posed for the cameras, as all eyes will be on him.

Even longtime fans of Hunter will need to get used to his new look, as he began growing his hair out in high school.

The new cut continues a year of new beginnings for Hunter, who has now joined the NFL, entered fatherhood, and cut off a signature hairstyle he had been growing for years.

Hunter could soon explain his decision to switch things up, as he has proven to be a very calculated person in the past.

Gilbert McGregor

Gilbert McGregor first joined The Sporting News in 2018 as a content producer for Global editions of NBA.com. Before covering the game, McGregor played basketball collegiately at Wake Forest, graduating with a Communication degree in 2016. McGregor began covering the NBA during the 2017-18 season and has been on hand for a number of league events.