Denver Broncos' George Paton Says Which Position Travis Hunter Should Play In NFL

“He can be whatever he wants to be. He’s that talented," Paton said. "We’re still working through it, but I think he should play on both sides of the ball. So I’ll just leave it at that.”

The Denver Broncos hold the No. 20 draft pick. It is highly unlikely that Hunter falls to the Broncos unless Denver trades up, but Paton’s statements demonstrate there are those around the league who believe Hunter can play both positions. 

In his 2024 Heisman-winning season, Hunter recorded 1,258 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns. As a defender, he recorded 36 combined tackles, one tackle for loss, four interceptions, and 11 passes defended.

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At the NFL Combine, Hunter was listed as a defensive back, and he remained vocal that he does not want to be limited to just one position. While speaking to the media at the combine, Hunter reiterated that he is looking to play on both sides of the ball.

“I can do everything for real. I can do anything in a football field,” Hunter said at the 2025 NFL Combine. “If they say I’m coming in as a corner, I’m gonna say I can work for receiver.”

Kansas City Chiefs star tight end Travis Kelce recently spoke on his “New Heights” podcast with his brother Jason Kelce about where Hunter should play. Kelce is one of the many around the league who believe Hunter can play on both sides of the ball. 

“It’s 100% possible,” Kelce said. “I think it’s easier for him to be on the field all the time as a defensive player. And then, offensively, coming in on certain plays.”

The main concern is that playing both offense and defense is taxing on the body. Hunter understands that it is a lot, but he does what he can to take care of his body. 

“I feel like I put my body through a lot,” Hunter said at the NFL Combine. “I do a lot of treatment. People don’t get to see that part of what I do for my body to make sure I’m 100% in each game.”

The 2025 NFL Draft will begin on April 25 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Hunter will likely not go past the fourth pick in the draft. Hunter and Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter are the top two non-quarterbacks in this year's draft. Wherever Hunter lands, the Heisman-winner will look to play on both sides of the ball.

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