Travis Hunter Shocks NFL Scouts, Boosts Draft Stock

Hunter chose to skip the active workouts at the combine, focusing on his upcoming pro day at Colorado. However, he did participate in the physical measurements, revealing that he weighed 188 pounds. This figure has alleviated some concerns regarding his durability, especially given his intention to play on both sides of the ball in the NFL.

Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated noted the significance of Hunter’s size for his NFL prospects. “There were concerns he might be in the 170s. So checking in at 188, and over 6-foot, is a nice win for him,” Breer posted on X. “Indicates he could be sturdy enough to take on a big workload, and potentially play both ways.”

In reflecting on the grueling demands of his collegiate playing schedule and how it prepares him for the professional league, Hunter provided insight into his rigorous preparation and recovery routines.

“Nobody has done it, but I feel like I put my body through a lot,” he explained. “People don’t get to see that part, what I do to my body to make sure I’m 100% for each game. But I know I could do it because I’ve done it at the college level.”

Travis Hunter Credits Colorado for NFL Preparation

At Colorado, Hunter was a force to be reckoned with. In his final season, he logged 1,380 snaps across 12 games, including substantial roles on offense, defense, and special teams. His performance set records and showcased his resilience and capacity to handle a high play volume.

Hunter’s dedication to maintaining his physical health and game readiness also stands out, particularly in how he manages the inherent challenges of such a demanding role.

“They say nobody has done it for real the way I do it,” Hunter continued. “I tell [teams] I’m just different. I didn’t have any load management at Colorado; Coach [Deion Sanders] would pretty much let me do what I felt was right for my body. I’m the only person that knows what’s right for my body.”

As Hunter prepares for the NFL, his potential to play both offense and defense in the league remains a compelling narrative, underscoring his unique talent and the pioneering nature of his approach to professional football.