Travis Hunter’s cornerback designation for the NFL Scouting Combine has been a hot topic early this offseason. Analysts are split on whether Hunter should pursue playing full-time as a wide receiver in addition to—or possibly instead of—becoming a starting cornerback. While many think Hunter can do it all, some still remain skeptical.
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Some argue that if Deion Sanders could do it, Hunter can too. However, Sanders recorded double-digit receptions in just one year (1996) of his entire NFL career. And that’s what makes John Middlekauf skeptical of Hunter’s chances of succeeding as a two-way star. So, which position does the analyst think Hunter should marry?
“Just playing corner alone, think of the wide receivers in the NFL. The talent on a weekly basis… you’re chasing those guys for 60-70 snaps… then you would try to play full-time wide receiver? I think it’s impossible on the body.. [he] needs to focus on one [position]… [and] he’s making the right decision…at corner,” he said on the Colin Cowherd Podcast. But does Cowherd agree?
The longtime sports media personality shared Middlekauff’s sentiment that Hunter’s body would break down under the stress of both positions. Despite this, he wouldn’t be shocked if Hunter forced his way onto the field as a receiver. And he believes doing so would be a massive detriment to his career outlook.
While Cowherd believes Hunter is “good enough to be a number two WR and a number one corner,” he doesn’t think the Heisman winner should pursue both. According to the seasoned analyst, “the physical toll would hurt what you’re best at.” So what position should Hunter stick to?
“I would put him at corner… but coming to a bad team, he’ll have a lot of leverage. He’ll play both ways. I could see that being a problem,” he explained.
For better or worse, Hunter’s future fanbase will likely clamor for him to appear as a wide receiver. Front offices can’t – and often don’t – let such things impact their decision-making. But Hunter’s potential star power on both sides of the ball could sway his organization to experiment.
Will this possible overexposure doom him, as Cowherd alluded to? Or will Hunter, and his team, reap rewards for their aggressiveness? We won’t find out until the 2025 campaign arrives. But rest assured, the debate about Hunter will rage onward throughout the offseason.
