Pittsburgh Legend with Four Super Bowl Rings Advocates for Steelers to Rescue Travis Hunter from Jaguars' Wrath

Pittsburgh, PA – September 13, 2025

After a disappointing Week 1 loss to the New York Jets, the Pittsburgh Steelers have found themselves at a crossroads. Into that uncertainty stepped Mel Blount, Hall of Famer, four-time Super Bowl champion, and the man who redefined the cornerback position. Blount has made a public plea: the Steelers must act now and trade for Jacksonville Jaguars rookie phenom Travis Hunter.

Hunter, taken first overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, was one of the most electrifying college stars in recent memory. At Colorado, he racked up 1,500+ receiving yards and 15 interceptions, becoming the rare player to dominate on both sides of the ball and winning the 2024 Heisman Trophy.

But in Jacksonville, Hunter has struggled to find his rhythm—just 3 catches for 42 yards and 1 tackle in Week 1. Blount wasted no time calling out the situation, posting on X:

“Travis Hunter’s wasting away in Jax. Steelers, go get him! He’s got the heart and skills to lock down receivers and make plays with Pickett. Bring him to Pittsburgh! #HereWeGo”

For Steelers Nation, it was more than just a tweet—it was a rallying cry from one of the architects of the Steel Curtain.

The Steelers’ secondary allowed 280 passing yards to Aaron Rodgers in Week 1, exposing cracks despite the presence of Joey Porter Jr. With Donte Jackson nearing the back end of his career and rookie CBs still adjusting, Hunter’s elite coverage ability and 4.4 speed could immediately strengthen Pittsburgh’s defense against AFC North rivals.

Offensively, Hunter’s versatility as a wide receiver would give Kenny Pickett another weapon beyond George Pickens. His college tape showcased 14 TDs and a knack for yards after the catch, exactly what Pittsburgh’s stagnant passing game is missing.

Blount sees in Hunter both a defensive cornerstone and an offensive spark plug:

“Travis Hunter’s got that Pittsburgh toughness—lock-down D and big-play offense. He’s being held back in Jacksonville. Trade for him, and he’ll be the difference-maker to get us back to the Super Bowl.”

Blount’s voice carries special weight in Pittsburgh. His career forced the NFL to change its rules on pass coverage, and his legacy remains embedded in the city’s football identity. Through the Mel Blount Youth Leadership Development program, he has mentored generations of young athletes, and he views Hunter as the kind of high-character, game-changing talent who could inspire the next wave of Steelers.

“Hunter’s not just a player,” Blount emphasized. “He’s the type of competitor who can reshape a franchise—just like we did in the ‘70s.”

In Jacksonville, frustrations are mounting. Hunter’s limited role has already fueled whispers of mismanagement and possible trade talks. Analysts (ESPN, 9/2025) note the Steelers have the draft capital—a 2026 first-rounder and two second-rounders—to make an aggressive offer.

Head coach Mike Tomlin kept his words measured but didn’t close the door:

“We’re always looking for guys who can make plays and fit our culture. A talent like Hunter? You keep an eye on him.”

For Steelers fans, Blount’s advocacy blends the grit of the Steel Curtain era with the hope of returning to Super Bowl contention. His championship pedigree gives him credibility; his passion for Pittsburgh gives his words resonance.

The message is clear: Travis Hunter belongs in black and gold.