If all goes according to plan, Travis Hunter, the Heisman Trophy winner, intends to play both offensive and defense in the NFL.
The former wide receiver and cornerback for Colorado and Jackson State showed off his explosive playmaking skills, making incredible receptions in close quarters and producing incredible interceptions and pass breakups as a top defensive player. The renowned two-way player told CBS Sports on Tuesday that if he isn’t permitted to show off his bilateral skills, he would think about giving up football as the 2025 NFL draft draws near.
Hunter remarked, “It’s never playing football again,” “Because I enjoy playing football and I’ve done it my entire life. I truly enjoy playing because I believe I could dominate on both sides of the ball.”
Hunter won the Heisman Trophy during his junior year at Colorado. He also won the Walter Camp Award, which is given to the country’s best college football player, the Biletnikoff Award, which is given to the best wide receiver, the Bednarik Award, which is given to the best defensive player of the year, a second Paul Hornung Award, which is given to the most versatile player, and the Lott IMPACT Trophy, which is given to the best defensive player of the year.
During the 2024 season, the 6-foot-1, 185-pound Hunter recorded 748 defensive snaps and 713 offensive snaps. With a total of 2,625 snaps in 21 games at Colorado in 2023 and 2024, Hunter topped the FBS in total snaps.
Furthermore, according to ESPN Research, the 21-year-old became the only athlete to collect at least 500 receiving yards and four interceptions in a single season since at least 1976.
According to ESPN’s most recent mock draft, the Cleveland Browns are currently predicted to select Hunter at No. 2 in this year’s NFL selection. Hunter’s ability to play on both sides of the ball was mentioned by Browns general manager Andrew Berry during the NFL Combine in February at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Berry, however, gave Hunter’s position at wide receiver top importance.
Hunter, a native of West Palm Beach, Florida, is certain he can play two positions at the top level, even though it is unclear which team would choose him in the draft.
“… I got a competitive spirit that I can do whatever I put my mind to, and I feel like I can do it,” Hunter explained.
HBCU Gameday published the article Travis Hunter says he will give up football if he isn’t given a two-way NFL gig.
