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Raiders CB Makes Statement About Colorado's Travis Hunter

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Levi Dombro | Last updated Feb 24, 2025 12:42 PM ET

Travis Hunter is one of the most intriguing NFL prospects in recent memory. The Heisman Trophy-winning player never stepped off the field last season, playing both wide receiver and cornerback at an elite level for the Colorado Buffaloes.

The Athletic interviewed several current NFL players at both positions and asked them what side of the ball they think the young star should play on at the professional level. Raiders cornerback Nate Hobbs weighed in and said that Hunter is being undervalued if he only plays one position.

"I don't like how people label guys in this game, especially at this level," said Hobbs, responding to those who want to limit Hunter. "I just feel like they're only saying that because they've never seen it. He's showing it. ... I feel like they're putting him in a box. He's both."

Hunter's college coach, Deion Sanders, was a similar prospect but was never considered to be the receiver that Hunter currently is. NFL front offices and fans alike have been trying to decide which position he would thrive at more in a professional setting, and there is almost no consensus.

Many feel that he has more upside as an elite cornerback and could have packages put in for him where he also plays wide receiver. To Hobbs and several other players, that would be a waste of his talents.

Just because nobody has done it before does not mean that it cannot be done. Hunter faced similar doubts when he transferred to Colorado from FCS Jackson State, but he quickly put those notions to rest as a Buffalo, winning the coveted Heisman Trophy last season.

If his history is any indication, Hunter should be able to silence his critics and make history as a premier player on both offense and defense. If he does, it's safe to say that Raiders cornerback Nate Hobbs won't be surprised.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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