A Versatile Force on the Field for Colorado
Describing Travis Hunter simply as a wide receiver or cornerback would be an understatement of his exceptional abilities. Coach Deion Sanders recognizes Hunter’s versatility and deploys him on both offense and defense for the Buffaloes, where he shines as a star wideout and cornerback.
In the previous season, Hunter displayed his explosiveness on the field, amassing 721 receiving yards and five touchdowns on offense, while also showcasing his defensive prowess with three interceptions. Despite being limited to just nine games due to injury, including a lacerated liver from a hard hit, Hunter’s impact was undeniable.
Looking ahead to 2024, Coach Prime intends to maximize Hunter’s talents, with plans to transition him to a slot corner position on defense during the spring. While Hunter’s adaptability allows him to excel in various roles, slot corner presents an opportunity to optimize his defensive contributions and enhance Colorado’s overall defensive capabilities.
Coach Sanders’ strategic move to position Hunter at nickel not only leverages his versatility but also opens up avenues to surround him with additional defensive talent, further fortifying the Buffaloes’ defense. As Colorado prepares for the upcoming season, the prospect of Hunter’s expanded role and impact on both sides of the ball adds an exciting dimension to the team’s strategy and performance expectations.
“Moving inside just gives us some more depth,” Sanders recently. “I don’t know if he’s gonna start there. I know he’s gonna start but I don’t know if he’s gonna start in the slot or outside, whatever is best for us … So you probably didn’t get the chance to see him in the spring play in the slot, but he’s really good. He really is. So we just wanted to see a little more depth and versatility and we got four more corners coming.”
Positioning Hunter at slot corner would enable Colorado to align him against slot receivers, known for their speed and agility. While Hunter possesses the skills to counter this specific type of threat, his capabilities extend beyond, allowing him to neutralize any offensive challenge he faces.
As Sanders hinted, regardless of Hunter’s placement on the field, his presence is set to be a game-changer for Colorado in the upcoming 2024 season.
“Travis is going to excel at wherever you place him. He’s that kind of a kid. He has that kind of character. He’s that kind of worker,” Sanders said. “He studies, he prepares, he loves the darn game of football. He loves to practice, he loves to play. You see him, by the time he’s done with the darn offense, he’s running over to the defense. I mean, who does that and don’t ever complain?”
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