Top draft prospect Travis Hunter has unwavering belief in two-way NFL future

Travis Hunter, a top NFL Draft prospect, is causing a stir among experts as he envisions himself as a two-way player in the league. The former Colorado star has excelled as both a wide receiver and cornerback under the tutelage of head coach Deion Sanders at Jackson State and Colorado.

During the NFL Scouting Combine, Hunter addressed questions about his potential role in the pros, stating that he has participated in meetings for both offensive and defensive positions. Despite the ongoing debate about his future role, Hunter remains confident in his ability to excel on both sides of the ball.

“I’m just different,” Hunter said, emphasizing his unique skill set and versatility as a player. While some may have doubts about his ability to play both offense and defense at a high level, Hunter is determined to prove his critics wrong.

Throughout his college career, Hunter showcased his talent by playing over 700 snaps on offense and defense. He was named the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner after a standout season that saw him amass 1,258 receiving yards and four interceptions. His impressive performance earned him accolades such as the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and the Fred Biletnikoff Award for the top college football receiver.

Despite his success in college, the transition to the NFL poses a new challenge for Hunter. While he has not participated in drills at the combine, he has met with teams to discuss his potential role in the league. With the NFL Draft fast approaching, teams will have to weigh the benefits of deploying Hunter as a two-way player against the risks of overworking him.

Historically, two-way players have been a rarity in the NFL, with legends like Chuck Bednarik, Sammy Baugh, and Don Hutson standing out as notable examples. Bednarik, who played for the Philadelphia Eagles, was the last full-time two-way athlete in the league, showcasing the physical and mental demands of excelling on both offense and defense.

As the NFL Draft approaches in April, all eyes will be on Travis Hunter as teams deliberate on his potential role in the league. Whether he will be utilized primarily as a receiver, a cornerback, or both remains to be seen. But one thing is certain – Hunter’s determination and versatility make him a unique prospect worth watching in the upcoming draft.