Travis Hunter’s NFL combine performance has ignited league-wide intrigue, with coaches and executives openly endorsing the Colorado standout as football’s first full-time two-way player in over 60 years. The 2023 Heisman contender showcased rare versatility this week, drawing comparisons to Deion Sanders and sparking draft strategy debates among teams.
Tennessee Titans coach Brian Callahan captured the consensus:
What do you do with a player like him? He can return punts, lock down receivers, and score touchdowns. There’s no modern blueprint.Hunter’s college stats validate the hype: 1,979 receiving yards, 20 TDs, 11 pass breakups, and 4 interceptions across his final two seasons.
While part-time two-way efforts by players like William The RefrigeratorPerry exist, Hunter aims to surpass even Hall of Famer Chuck Bednarik – the last true ironman (1949-1962). Broncos GM George Paton stated: He’s that talented. We’re working through it, but he’ll play both sides.
Key challenges remain:
- NFL’s 17-game grind vs. college workload
- Balancing offensive/defensive practice reps
- Draft value for multi-role players
Despite concerns, Panthers coach Dan Morgan confirmed: Yes, he can play both. It’s about team vision.With 2,500 college snaps logged, Hunter’s endurance intrigues teams like the Bengals, whose GM Duke Tobin hinted: Maybe a guy that plays six positions... we’ll see.
As Sanders lobbies for dual-role commitments, Hunter’s draft stock hinges on bold franchises. While QBs dominate early picks, Titans GM Mike Borgonzi admits: He’s special. Nobody’s done this in modern football.
