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Travis Hunter faces a unique challenge in NFL history. His extraordinary talent on both sides of the ball has elevated the former Colorado Buffaloes star's draft stock to an unprecedented level. Yet, it's also shaping up to be a logistical puzzle for him and whichever team selects him in the 2025 Draft.
According to analyst Todd McShay, if Hunter continues on his current trajectory, he's already a Hall of Fame candidate. However, McShay insists that Hunter's future lies on only one side of the ball-not as the dual-threat sensation he was in college.
Most analysts, including McShay and co-host Stephen Muench, predict the New England Patriots will claim Hunter with the sixth overall pick. But this creates a significant dilemma for the team: where will they deploy him?
Offense or defense? Hunter's conundrum
"What if he can play 90 snaps?" McShay speculated, praising Hunter's durability. "You're talking 60-65. We could get 90-100 snaps out of him-a whole game of defense and 30-35 offensive plays." Muench, however, interjected, pointing out, "Not in New England. [There] he'd have to play a full game on offense."
Hunter has expressed a strong desire to continue as a two-way player. Yet at the Scouting Combine, he auditioned as a cornerback, subtly signaling his preference if forced to choose. This presents a conflict with the Patriots' needs, as the team is eager to strengthen quarterback Drake Maye's receiving corps.
Analysts like ESPN's Louis Riddick share the view that Hunter would thrive more as a cornerback in the NFL. "Hunter would be an instant Pro-Bowler at corner. I genuinely believe that," said the former safety. "But as a receiver? Not so much."
Hunter's stats complicate the narrative
Over three years of college football, Hunter demonstrated mastery on both offense and defense. As a receiver, he tallied 167 receptions for 2,061 yards and 23 touchdowns. On defense, he recorded 80 tackles (58 solo), nine interceptions, and returned those picks for 93 yards.
With the 2025 NFL Draft just a month away, we'll soon learn which team wins the Hunter sweepstakes. However, the real drama-where and how this year's top prospect will play-won't unfold until September.