NFL Star Explains Why He Got Baptized Before Game: ‘It’s God’s Day I Want to Become a Better Man’

Jacksonville Jaguars star Travis Hunter made headlines Sunday morning, not for a highlight-reel catch, but for a powerful moment of faith. Before taking the field, Hunter was baptized — and when a reporter asked why, his answer was pure class.

“Did you get baptized this morning?” a reporter asked.

“Yes,” Hunter replied simply.

When pressed on why he chose to do it before game day, Hunter smiled. “That’s a crazy question. Why did I get baptized?” he said, before offering a heartfelt explanation. “It’s Sunday. It’s God’s day. And I’ve been planning to get baptized for a minute. You know, I want to change my life forward, become a better man.”

When asked what the moment meant to him, Hunter’s voice carried conviction. “It means a lot. You know, becoming a better man, leaving my old flesh and just becoming the new Travis.”

WATCH:

Jacksonville Jaguars star Travis Hunter responds to reporter who asked him why he got baptized before his game.

“It’s a crazy question. Why did I get baptized? It’s Sunday, it’s God’s day, and I’ve been planning to get baptized for a minute.”

“I want to change my life, I want… pic.twitter.com/9Inac36UoC

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) October 15, 2025

The 23-year-old wide receiver’s response quickly spread online, with fans praising his sincerity and courage to speak openly about his faith in an era where athletes often shy away from spiritual topics.

Hunter’s comments reflect a growing trend among NFL players embracing faith as a guiding force both on and off the field. For Hunter, it wasn’t about publicity — it was about purpose. As he put it, this wasn’t just another Sunday game — it was a fresh start.

Travis’s rookie season with the Jaguars has quickly become one of the most intriguing storylines in the NFL. Drafted second overall, Hunter entered the league with enormous expectations—not just because of his athletic talent, but because he’s attempting something rarely seen in modern football: playing both offense and defense.

Colorado wide receiver Travis Hunter #12 catches an interception intended for UCLA wide receiver Logan Loya #17 during an NCAA college football game, Oct. 28, 2023, in Pasadena, Calif.

Before reaching the NFL, Hunter was already a standout at both Jackson State and Colorado. Under Deion Sanders, he played as both a wide receiver and a defensive back, earning national attention for his playmaking ability on both sides of the ball. During his college career, he was recognized for his crisp route running, reliable hands, and ability to lock down top receivers. By the time the Jaguars drafted him, he had already drawn comparisons to Deion Sanders himself—a player who famously excelled in both roles during his career.

The Jaguars have been careful with how they deploy Hunter, trying to balance his snaps between receiver and cornerback. In some games, he’s seen heavy usage on offense; in others, he’s shifted to defense depending on the opponent. However, Jacksonville has also learned that managing his workload is key to keeping him effective and healthy over a long season.

Statistically, Hunter’s numbers may not jump off the page yet, but they reflect steady progress for a rookie attempting to master two positions. Through his first six games, he’s caught around 20 passes for just under 200 yards, averaging roughly 10 yards per reception. While he has yet to score a touchdown, his impact is being felt beyond the stat sheet. His speed and instincts have helped stretch defenses and open opportunities for teammates. On defense, he’s been used in coverage packages, holding his own against experienced receivers while continuing to adjust to the speed of the NFL game.