Former Colorado Buffaloes two-way star Travis Hunter has made waves in college football this season, showcasing his exceptional talent and versatility. Earning the prestigious Heisman Trophy is no small feat, and Hunter has proven himself to be a standout player, leaving fans and analysts eager to see where he will land in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. With the Tennessee Titans holding the No. 1 pick, speculation is growing that they may choose Hunter as their top selection.
Hunter’s Rising Draft Stock
Hunter’s odds to be the first player selected in the draft have seen a significant shift, dropping from +1200 to +430, according to FanDuel Sportsbook. This change reflects the growing belief in his potential as a top-tier talent. However, not everyone agrees with the notion that he should be the first overall choice.
Critics Weigh In
Despite his remarkable achievements, some critics have expressed skepticism about Hunter’s suitability as the top pick. One user on social media bluntly stated, “No chance,” highlighting the debate surrounding his selection. Another commentator remarked, “That’s the choice I would make if I didn’t want to be a successful organization.” Such comments underscore the divided opinions about Hunter’s readiness for the NFL.
Adding to the conversation, one user commented, “He was average at both positions he played,” questioning his dual-threat capabilities. Hunter’s accomplishments are impressive, but the scrutiny he faces is a reminder of the high expectations placed on top draft prospects.
Unprecedented Achievements
Travis Hunter’s accolades speak volumes about his abilities on the field. He became the first player to win both the Bednarik Award and the Biletnikoff Award, which are awarded to the best defensive player and receiver in the nation, respectively. In his junior year, Hunter recorded an astounding 96 receptions for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns on offense. On defense, he tallied 35 tackles, four interceptions, 11 passes defended, and a forced fumble. Such statistics highlight his unique skill set and versatility, making him a valuable asset for any team.
Quarterback Dilemma
As the draft approaches, the question arises: will teams prioritize a quarterback or Travis Hunter? The current quarterback class includes notable names such as Miami’s Cam Ward, Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders, Texas’ Quinn Ewers, Ohio State’s Will Howard, and Syracuse’s Kyle McCord. Some analysts suggest that if Hunter is selected early, it may be due to a perceived lack of viable talent at the quarterback position.
One commentator noted, “Smart… Cuz the real QBs come out next draft,” indicating that teams might be hesitant to invest in this year’s quarterback class. This sentiment raises the stakes for Hunter, as teams like the New York Giants and Cleveland Browns, both in need of a quarterback, could be tempted to take a chance on him instead.
Teams in Need of a Quarterback
The Giants have recently parted ways with former first-round pick Daniel Jones, while the Browns have struggled with Deshaun Watson‘s performance and subsequent injury issues. With options like Jameis Winston and Bailey Zappe proving to be less than ideal, the pressure is on for these franchises to find a solution at quarterback.
One analyst speculated, “[My] bet is he goes 4th to the Patriots,” suggesting that Hunter could land in New England if the team decides to move on from their current quarterback situation. The Titans and Giants are also expected to explore quarterback options, making Hunter’s future even more intriguing.
The Uncertainty of the No. 1 Pick
As the NFL draft approaches, the landscape remains uncertain. There’s no clear-cut No. 1 pick, and the rumored interest from teams like the Dallas Cowboys and Las Vegas Raiders in Deion Sanders could further complicate the situation. The draft dynamics may shift based on where Shedeur Sanders, Deion’s son and a top quarterback prospect, ultimately lands.
With so many variables at play, the anticipation surrounding Travis Hunter’s draft prospects continues to grow. Will he be the first player off the board, or will teams opt for a quarterback instead?
Which team do you think should look to draft Travis Hunter? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below. The excitement of college football is palpable as we approach the draft, and Hunter’s journey is just beginning.
