John Harbaugh doubts Travis Hunter’s NFL dream

Travis Hunter doesn’t just want to play football — he wants to redefine it. But not everyone is convinced the NFL is ready for a true two-way star.

As Hunter prepares to hear his name called in the 2025 NFL Draft, one of the league’s most respected head coaches, John Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens, added his voice to the debate over whether the Colorado Buffaloes phenom can thrive playing both offense and defense at the pro level.

At a recent pre-draft press conference, Harbaugh was candid when asked about Hunter’s unique aspirations. “To say that you’re going to be completely immersed in everything that there is to know on offense and everything there is to (know on) defense, I don’t know if there’s enough hours in the day,” Harbaugh said.

While he praised Hunter’s talent, the Super Bowl-winning coach suggested NFL teams will likely limit his responsibilities. “You could certainly do it on one side of the ball and then have some sort of a package on the other side,” he added.

Doubters aside, Hunter’s 2024 numbers were jaw-dropping. He played 1,461 total snaps — 713 on offense, 748 on defense — and still posted elite production. As a receiver, he hauled in 96 catches for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns. On defense, he recorded four interceptions, 35 tackles, and a forced fumble. To Hunter, giving up one side isn’t an option. “It’s never playing football again,” he told CBS Sports. “I feel like I could dominate on each side of the ball.”

Though the Ravens won’t have a shot at drafting Hunter with the 27th pick, Harbaugh seemed prepared to face him down the road. “I assume we’ll be playing against him. So, we’re about to find out how that team does it,” he said.

Colorado fans, take note: NFL minds like Harbaugh’s are watching Hunter closely — not just to see where he goes, but how a team might unleash (or restrict) one of college football’s most electric talents. One thing’s for sure: wherever Hunter lands, the league — and the game — may never look the same.