Travis Hunter, the electric cornerback/wide receiver out of Colorado, has quickly become one of the most exciting prospects heading into this year’s NFL Draft. Fresh off winning the Heisman Trophy, Hunter’s unique blend of skills has sparked a plethora of discussions about where he fits best at the professional level. Teams are contemplating whether to deploy him as a full-time wide receiver, a full-time cornerback, or a dual-threat player who can impact the game on both sides of the ball.
Let’s explore three teams that not only have the potential to draft Hunter but also could maximize his talents in the NFL.
Cleveland Browns (Pick 1.02)
The Cleveland Browns find themselves in a pivotal position. With uncertainty surrounding Deshaun Watson, the organization might contemplate a new direction at quarterback. However, if they choose to stick with Watson or don’t find a quarterback they believe in, why not snag one of this draft’s most electrifying talents?
Adding Hunter could instantly elevate the Browns’ receiving corps, positioning him alongside Jerry Jeudy. Imagine the challenges this dynamic duo would pose to opposing defenses. Beyond that, Hunter’s capabilities as a cornerback would complement talents like Denzel Ward and could allow the Browns to leverage Greg Newsome II for additional draft assets.
Hunter’s versatility shines in the potential for him to alternate between wide receiver and cornerback seamlessly. Picture him lining up to target those elusive mismatches, all while still being able to shore up the secondary defense. The Browns would have to be thoroughly convinced of their quarterbacking situation to pass on a talent of Hunter’s caliber, but if they decide to go in a different direction, he could be a game-changer in Cleveland.
Likelihood of being selected here: 35%
New England Patriots (Pick 1.04)
Now, for the New England Patriots, selecting Travis Hunter at pick four would be nothing short of a coup. He would instantly become the top weapon for whoever is under center, likely Drake Maye. Hunter’s presence would not only bolster the offense but also solidify their secondary as an impressive CB2 next to Christian Gonzalez.
The path to New England could very well be paved by the top three teams potentially taking a quarterback or Abdul Carter. If Hunter is available, the Patriots would be thrilled. The idea of scheming Hunter into a variety of offensive plays while strategically utilizing him on defense would give Mike Vrabel a playground of possibilities. If the Patriots prioritize offensive tackle instead, that could be enough to pass on Hunter, but make no mistake—bringing him on board would be monumental for New England.
Likelihood of happening: 45%
Jacksonville Jaguars (Pick 1.05)
Should Hunter slip past New England, the Jacksonville Jaguars could swoop in and add the Heisman winner to their ranks. With glaring needs on both the defensive and offensive fronts, adding Hunter could drastically improve their overall impact. For Trevor Lawrence, having Hunter could create a plethora of mismatches against AF South defenses, allowing the Jaguars to score with relative ease.
However, Jacksonville’s decision will hinge on how the previous four picks shake out. If Hunter falls to them at five, the Jaguars shouldn’t hesitate to pull the trigger. Given what he can bring to both their offense and defense, he could be the lynchpin that transforms the team’s prospects moving forward.
Likelihood of happening: 20%
Travis Hunter’s Positioning in the NFL
The primary debate surrounding Hunter is his ideal role in the NFL: will he be a dedicated wide receiver, a cornerback, or perhaps both? The answer will likely depend on the needs of the team that drafts him. If a team with a deep receiving corps, like the Patriots, selects him, we might see Hunter focusing more on offense. Conversely, if a squad like the Jaguars, with a stronger need for defensive help, takes him, he could step in as a star cornerback.
Ultimately, Hunter’s versatility and athleticism set him apart as a top prospect in this draft class. He’s a blue-chip talent, a player described as “generational,” and any team acquiring his services will receive not just a player but a potential cornerstone for years to come.
