The Draft’s Rare Talent: NFL Teams Debate “Unicorn” Prospect

Travis Hunter, a standout college football player, is drawing comparisons to baseball’s Shohei Ohtani for his exceptional two-way abilities. Like Ohtani, who excels as both a hitter and pitcher, Hunter has dominated as both a wide receiver and cornerback. After a stellar 2024 season that earned him college football’s top player award, Hunter is projected to be a top pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.  

Hunter’s versatility has NFL teams both intrigued and perplexed. He’s considered one of the greatest two-way players in college football history, but teams are unsure how to best utilize his unique skill set. The last true two-way NFL player was Chuck Bednarik in the 1950s, making Hunter’s potential return to this style of play a significant talking point.  

Hunter’s college career, under the tutelage of Deion Sanders, demonstrated his ability to excel on both sides of the ball. He followed Sanders from Jackson State to Colorado, where he continued to impress. His final college season saw him win awards for both best defensive player and best receiver, as well as being a Heisman Trophy finalist.  

At the NFL Combine, Hunter made it clear he intends to play both offense and defense in the NFL. While some teams see him primarily as a cornerback, others envision him as a receiver, with the possibility of playing both roles. Hunter averaged a staggering 111.5 snaps per game in college, and he believes the NFL’s structure will allow him to maintain this level of play. He emphasizes the importance of rigorous physical maintenance and believes he can pave the way for a resurgence of two-way players in the NFL.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his role, Hunter’s talent is undeniable. He’s confident in his ability to handle the demands of playing both positions, and his performance in the NFL Draft will be closely watched.