After a sensational season that culminated in winning the 2024 Heisman Trophy, Colorado Buffaloes’ two-way star Travis Hunter is setting his sights on the NFL. With his impressive performances on both sides of the ball, he has made it clear that he plans to enter the 2025 NFL Draft. The question now is: how will NFL teams evaluate him? Will they want him to play one specific position, or can he continue to shine as a versatile player?
Travis Hunter’s Stellar Season
Hunter’s season statistics are nothing short of remarkable. On the offensive end, he racked up 92 receptions for 1,152 yards, averaging 12.5 yards per catch. He found the end zone 14 times, showcasing his ability to be a game-changer. Additionally, he contributed on the ground with a couple of carries for five yards and a rushing touchdown.
Defensively, Hunter was equally impactful. He recorded 31 total tackles—20 solo and 11 assisted—along with 11 pass deflections, one forced fumble, and an impressive four interceptions. His ability to defend the opposing team’s top wide receiver speaks volumes about his skill set and versatility.
Hunter’s NFL Draft Stock
So, what does this mean for Hunter’s draft stock? As we look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, speculation is running wild. Currently, the draft order is not finalized, as there are still four weeks of regular-season games left. However, Hunter is widely regarded as the best non-quarterback in this draft class, and some even argue he’s the best overall player.
With teams eager to secure a top talent, Hunter’s name is sure to be at the forefront of discussions. Below are the projected top 10 picks as of now:
- Las Vegas Raiders
- New York Giants
- New England Patriots
- Carolina Panthers
- Jacksonville Jaguars
- Tennessee Titans
- New York Jets
- Cleveland Browns
- Chicago Bears
- Cincinnati Bengals
While many of these teams are still searching for their franchise quarterback, two franchises stand out as potential landing spots for Hunter: the New England Patriots and the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Potential Landing Spots
The Patriots, currently positioned with the third overall pick, have their sights set on rookie quarterback Drake Maye as their franchise hopeful. This means they are unlikely to draft another quarterback with their top pick. Instead, it makes perfect sense for coach Jerod Mayo to consider an elite playmaker like Hunter to bolster their offense.
On the other hand, the Jaguars have invested heavily in their quarterback, Trevor Lawrence, ahead of this season. With the fifth pick, they could easily secure Hunter, who would likely step in as the team’s WR1 from day one. His addition could transform the Jaguars into a more formidable offensive unit, making them a significant threat downfield.
Hunter’s Future in the NFL
As the draft approaches, the excitement surrounding Travis Hunter continues to build. Will he be the first overall pick? Many analysts believe he could be taken off the board very quickly, given his extraordinary talent and versatility. His ability to play both offense and defense makes him a unique asset that teams will be eager to acquire.
The upcoming weeks will be crucial for Hunter as he prepares for the next step in his football journey. His performance in the remaining games will undoubtedly influence his draft stock, but it’s clear that he has already made a significant impact on college football.
With his combination of skills, work ethic, and determination, Travis Hunter is poised to make waves in the NFL. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting the 2025 NFL Draft to see where this rising star will land. The anticipation is palpable, and one thing is for sure: wherever he goes, he will bring his electrifying play and passion for the game with him.
As the college football landscape shifts, all eyes will be on Hunter. Will he continue to dazzle at the professional level? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—his journey is just beginning, and it’s bound to be an exciting ride!
