Travis Hunter: WR or CB? Breaking Down the Two-Way Star’s NFL Draft Potential
Travis Hunter. The name echoes through NFL draft rooms and ignites debates among fans. Is he a shutdown cornerback destined to lock down the league’s top receivers? Or is he a dynamic wide receiver poised to redefine offensive playmaking? The Colorado Buffaloes standout has captivated the football world with his unprecedented two-way abilities, leaving scouts and analysts pondering the ultimate question: Where does Travis Hunter thrive in the NFL?
Hunter’s collegiate career is the stuff of legends. In 2024, he became the first player ever to win both the Biletnikoff Award (nation’s best receiver) and the Bednarik Award (nation’s best defensive player) in the same season. He racked up 96 receptions for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns while also recording 36 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 11 pass breakups on defense. According to the University of Colorado Athletics, across 30 games in college, Hunter recorded 171 receptions for 2,167 yards and 24 touchdowns. Defensively, he finished with 87 tackles, nine interceptions, and 26 pass breakups. Such a feat hasn’t been seen since the days of old, with the last NFL player recording 15+ receiving touchdowns and 4+ interceptions being Hall of Famer Don Hutson in 1942.
The Case for Wide Receiver
Hunter’s offensive prowess is undeniable. He possesses elite athleticism, exceptional ball skills, and a knack for creating separation. His route running is crisp and nuanced, allowing him to consistently gain an advantage over defenders. Hunter’s hands are reliable, and he demonstrates a remarkable ability to win contested catches, making him a valuable asset in the red zone.
“You see his football IQ and understanding of where he fits in zone concepts. He does a great job of finding a way to get open,” said New England Patriots wide receivers coach Todd Downing.
Scouting reports highlight Hunter’s quickness, agility, and ability to stretch the field vertically. He’s a playmaker with the ball in his hands, capable of juking defenders and breaking tackles to generate significant yardage after the catch. His skills in high-pointing the ball make him a dangerous red-zone threat.
The Case for Cornerback
While Hunter’s offensive skills are impressive, his potential as a cornerback is equally intriguing. He possesses the size, speed, and agility to match up with the league’s top receivers. Hunter’s instincts and awareness are exceptional, allowing him to anticipate routes and make plays on the ball.
According to CBS Sports, during the 2024 regular season, Hunter was targeted 38 times, allowing only 22 receptions for 205 yards, with 4 interceptions and 11 pass breakups. His ability to mirror receivers, disrupt routes, and make game-changing interceptions makes him a potentially elite defensive weapon.
NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein notes that Hunter’s cornerback play noticeably improved in 2024. He’s a defensive playmaker with rare range, combining elite ball skills with impressive instincts. Hunter is willing and able to race and overlap coverage areas, bursting into throw lanes and timing up ball challenges.
The Hybrid Role: A Double-Edged Sword?
Hunter’s unique ability to excel at both wide receiver and cornerback has led some to suggest a hybrid role in the NFL. The idea of a player who can contribute on both sides of the ball is certainly enticing, but it also raises concerns about workload, durability, and the potential for diluted impact.
Only a handful of players have started at both WR and CB in the same game since 1980: Antonio Cromartie (2012), Champ Bailey (2000) and Deion Sanders (1996).
Some analysts believe that Hunter should focus primarily on one position to maximize his potential. Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel stated that Hunter could improve by concentrating on just one position. However, Vrabel also acknowledged that they wouldn’t put any restrictions on Hunter. Browns GM Andrew Berry projects Hunter as a WR first, while Titans HC Brian Callahan views Hunter as a starting CB with the ability to contribute on offense.
Draft Projections and Potential Landing Spots
Travis Hunter is widely projected to be a top-5 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Several teams are rumored to be interested in acquiring his services, including the New England Patriots, Cleveland Browns, and Jacksonville Jaguars.
The Patriots, in need of offensive playmakers, could view Hunter as a potential WR1. The Browns, seeking to bolster their defense, might see him as a shutdown cornerback. The Jaguars, with needs on both sides of the ball, could be intrigued by Hunter’s versatility.
The Final Verdict
Ultimately, the decision of where Travis Hunter plays in the NFL will depend on the team that drafts him and their specific needs. While his two-way abilities are certainly intriguing, it’s likely that he’ll primarily focus on one position to maximize his impact.
Whether he lines up as a wide receiver or a cornerback, one thing is certain: Travis Hunter is a special talent with the potential to become a star in the NFL. His unique skill set, unwavering work ethic, and undeniable passion for the game make him one of the most exciting prospects in recent memory. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the football world eagerly awaits to see where Hunter’s journey will take him next.