INDIANAPOLIS — Travis Hunter made waves at the NFL’s annual scouting combine, showcasing a Heisman-worthy background and being invited to exhibit his skills in two positions, drawing attention as a potential dual-threat in the league not seen in years.
The former standout from Colorado has already left a notable impression in Indianapolis by convincing coaches and general managers that he could become the first genuine two-way player in the modern NFL, possibly contributing in special teams as well.
Hunter is no longer just a topic of intrigue.
“What are you going to do with a player like him? Where do you put him first? And how can he impact all aspects of the game?” asked Tennessee coach Brian Callahan. “He can return punts. He has a unique skill set. I really don’t think there’s another player quite like him.”
While some athletes have been occasionally utilized in special roles on both offense and defense, Hunter seems poised to join ranks with the likes of former stars such as Mike Vrabel, Troy Brown of the Patriots, and William “The Refrigerator” Perry of the Bears. In recent history, few have managed to consistently contribute on both sides, aside from Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, who had a notable season as a receiver with the Cowboys in 1996.
Many regard Chuck Bednarik, a Hall of Famer, as the last true two-way player in the NFL, serving as both a linebacker and an offensive lineman for the Eagles from 1949 to 1962.
The closest historical comparisons to Bednarik might be Sanders or Roy Green, who was initially drafted as a safety, but also excelled enough as a receiver to lead the league in yards by 1984.
Unlike Charles Woodson, who is the closest comparison with his Heisman Trophy win as a defensive player, everything seems within Hunter’s grasp.
“He has the talent to do whatever he wants,” remarked Denver Broncos general manager George Paton. “We’re still evaluating, but I think he’s going to contribute on both sides of the ball at the pro level.”
Hunter shone brightly at the collegiate level, first at Jackson State before moving to Colorado with coach Sanders. Over his final college seasons, his impressive stats featured 153 receptions, 1,979 receiving yards, 20 touchdowns, alongside 11 pass breakups and four interceptions.
During the combine, Hunter was offered a defensive backs T-shirt, with flexibility to participate in both defensive drills on Friday and offensive drills on Saturday — a choice yet undetermined as of Thursday’s media discussions.
Coach Sanders is vocally advocating for Hunter, suggesting teams pass him over unless they plan to utilize him both as a receiver and a cornerback.
Executives who discussed his potential Tuesday largely agreed with Sanders, touting Hunter’s ability on both sides, but suggested his initial position might best be cornerback.
“Travis is obviously special, no one doubts that,” said Carolina Panthers coach Dan Morgan. “He can thrive on both offense and defense. That’s ultimately up to the team that drafts him.”
A critical question remains: how many plays can Hunter sustain in the NFL without experiencing a drop in performance?
At Colorado, he endured roughly 2,500 snaps spanning 2023 and 2024. Nevertheless, the NFL presents more demanding foes and a longer 17-game season, with additional playoff matchups possible.
Many agree Hunter is a top athlete in this draft class, but there’s fierce competition among quarterbacks for the highest draft spots.
It’s uncertain whether Hunter will break the traditional mold of early quarterback selections, especially with teams like Tennessee, Cleveland, and the New York Giants holding premium picks and potentially seeking franchise quarterbacks.
“I think quarterbacks, maybe a great pass rusher, have the edge at being top selections,” noted Cincinnati Bengals general manager Duke Tobin. “Or maybe a guy like Hunter who can play several positions.”
Tennessee’s own evaluation is ongoing, with Callahan and general manager Mike Borgonzi keeping options open for Hunter, who might address multiple needs on their roster.
“He’s a remarkable talent,” Borgonzi said. “Watching him play, there’s rarely anyone who performs like that in modern football, simultaneously handling offense and defense. He’s truly extraordinary.”
