The New England Patriots have been rumored as a potential landing spot for Colorado Buffaloes standout Travis Hunter, a dynamic talent who has made waves as both a wide receiver and cornerback.
With the No. 4 overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, New England could find itself in a prime position to select the reigning Heisman Trophy winner.
Hunter, who dazzled on both sides of the ball during the 2024 college season, has been vocal about his desire to continue playing as a two-way star in the NFL.
His numbers back up that ambition – hauling in 96 receptions for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns on offense, while also recording 35 tackles, four interceptions, a forced fumble, and 11 pass breakups as a defensive back.
However, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel appears to see things differently.
While he acknowledges Hunter’s immense talent, Vrabel believes the young star could benefit from focusing on just one position, at least initially.
“I think there are some things he can improve on by concentrating on one position,” Vrabel bluntly said.
Vrabel added that while Hunter may have the potential to contribute in multiple roles, his primary focus should be on mastering a single position before expanding his responsibilities in the NFL.
Hunter, for his part, has made it clear he’s ready to prove himself.
In response to comments from Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce – who suggested Hunter would need to demonstrate that he can handle playing both ways – Hunter embraced the challenge.
“Like he said, I have to prove that I can do it. So that’s my main thing,” Hunter said. “I’m gonna prove that I’m gonna do it and I can do it. So he’s not telling no lie. I still got to prove it.
“You know, I just can’t go to the league and they just, ‘Oh, here you go, Trav, you could do all this,’ and I don’t go out and show up how I’m supposed to show up.”
We won’t have to wait much longer to find out where Hunter will end up. The first round of the NFL Draft kicks off on April 24, and if the Patriots decide to take him at No. 4, the conversation about his role will quickly become a reality.
While some coaches believe Hunter can thrive at both positions in the NFL, there are others – like Vrabel – who feel that he’d be better off focusing on mastering one.
What are your thoughts on Hunter as a prospect? … Can he really play BOTH positions at an elite level in the NFL???
