Colorado Buffaloes star Travis Hunter is generating considerable buzz in the 2025 NFL draft discussions as he progresses through his junior season in Boulder. His unique skills as a two-way player—both a wide receiver and a cornerback—are anticipated to make him a highly sought-after prospect next spring. Hunter, standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 185 pounds, recently delivered an outstanding performance against the Cincinnati Bearcats in Week 9, where he recorded nine catches for 153 yards and two touchdowns, in addition to two tackles and four pass breakups on defense.
For his remarkable showing, Hunter was named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week, making history as the first player in the conference to win honors for both offense and defense. The former No. 1 overall recruit (247Sports) previously received the defensive accolade in Week 3 against Colorado State.
As of now, Hunter leads the Big 12 in both receptions (60) and touchdowns (8) after nine weeks. There’s growing speculation about his chances for the Heisman Trophy, but his prospects for the next level are also bright. According to Pro Football Focus’ recent NFL mock draft, Hunter is projected to be selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars (2-6) with the No. 5 overall pick. Analyst Trevor Sikkema describes Hunter as an “anomaly” who could contribute on both sides of the ball for the Jaguars, who are led by Pro Bowl quarterback Trevor Lawrence.
“The Jaguars’ needs seem less urgent following the emergence of two rookies: wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. and cornerback Jarrian Jones,” Sikkema noted. “They could certainly look for offensive line upgrades, but the anomaly that is Travis Hunter is too good to pass up here as a player who can, insanely enough, play on both sides of the ball for Jacksonville.”
The Jacksonville Jaguars and third-year head coach Doug Pederson have invested heavily in Lawrence, signing him to a five-year, $ 275 million contract extension, making him the second-highest paid player in the league. Adding a talent like Hunter could enhance the defense and provide an additional weapon for Lawrence and his team.
However, there is still much for Hunter to accomplish before the draft. No. 23 Colorado (6-2, 4-1 Big 12) is vying for the Big 12 championship, with their next challenge coming in Week 11 at Texas Tech (5-3, 3-2 Big 12).
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