As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Travis Hunter divides NFL franchises in a way few prospects ever have. Universally recognized as a generational talent, Hunter is undeniably electrifying on the field.
However, the debate around his future isn’t centered on if he’ll succeed, but how he’ll be used.
With his unmatched versatility at both wide receiver and cornerback, teams are split on whether he can truly thrive as a two-way player in the NFL.
The divide isn’t just among fans or analysts; top NFL coaches and general managers are weighing in, and the responses are mixed.
The Draft Landscape Is Taking Shape
With just one week left until draft night, things are beginning to settle at the top of the draft board. Cam Ward, a name that was once among many in a crowded quarterback class, has surged to become the favorite for the No. 1 overall pick.
Most projections now expect the Tennessee Titans to call Ward’s name first, leaving the Cleveland Browns on the clock next.
Early speculation had teams juggling between dynamic quarterbacks and once-in-a-generation athletes, but it appears the Browns have a laser focus on Travis Hunter.
If they indeed select him, it would validate months of scouting, buzz, and conversation surrounding the two-way phenom.
The Giants Wait in the Wings
Right behind Cleveland, the New York Giants are in an interesting position. While they’ve been linked heavily to linebacker Abdul Carter, they’ve also done extensive homework on Hunter.
If the Browns somehow pivot last-minute and pass on him, many believe the Giants would immediately pounce, eager to unleash his talents on both sides of the ball.
Still, this decision would come with risk. The NFL is a different beast than college football, and while Hunter’s skills have dazzled at the collegiate level, managing two roles at the pro level is another challenge entirely.
Not Everyone’s a Believer: Ravens Push Back
While some front offices are enamored by Hunter’s potential, others are more skeptical. Case in point: the Baltimore Ravens. Head coach John Harbaugh and GM Eric DeCosta have recently voiced doubts about Hunter’s ability to effectively play both wide receiver and cornerback at the professional level.
DeCosta made it clear: “If we’re talking about a guy like Travis Hunter, we would probably want to put him at one position.” Harbaugh echoed the sentiment, saying, “To say that you’re going to be completely immersed in everything that there is to know on offense and everything there is to defense…
I don’t know if there are enough hours in the day for a player to be able to do that and to have every detail locked down.”
These aren’t just random voices in the wilderness; these are decision-makers with championship credentials. When they speak, the league listens.
Two-Way Success in the NFL: Rare but Not Impossible
Historically, true two-way players in the NFL have been few and far between. Deion Sanders is perhaps the most famous example, excelling as both a cornerback and wide receiver (and, occasionally, even as a kick returner). However, even Sanders eventually focused more on defense.
Then again, the game has evolved. Athletes today are faster, more conditioned, and better prepared than ever before. Could Travis Hunter become the exception in the modern NFL? Possibly. However, the margin for error is razor-thin, and many front offices are wary of the added risk.
Cleveland’s Gamble or Genius?
If the Browns do indeed select Hunter at No. 2, it will mark a bold strategy for a team trying to build long-term success. Cleveland’s current roster could benefit immensely from a dynamic player like Hunter, whether he’s shutting down opposing receivers or making big plays downfield.
Yet, committing to a two-way player could complicate development, coaching, and overall roster strategy. In this regard, Travis Hunter divides NFL franchises not just in philosophy, but in practical planning.
Giants Could Take the Risk
On the other hand, the Giants have shown more willingness to experiment. Under GM Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll, the team has leaned into creative approaches and positionless football.
If Hunter falls into their lap, they might be one of the few franchises equipped to deploy him on both sides of the ball at least initially.
Moreover, the Giants have offensive and defensive holes that Hunter could help fill. This could justify their pursuit of such a multi-role asset. However, that doesn’t mean it will be easy.
Positional Clarity vs. Positional Value
From a development standpoint, most rookies benefit from clearly defined roles. Rookies transitioning into the NFL face a steep learning curve, as it is throwing in dual responsibilities only amplifies the challenge.
That said, Hunter’s raw skill and football IQ are top-tier. With the right system, mentorship, and load management, he might just prove the doubters wrong. That’s the allure. And precisely why Travis Hunter divides NFL franchises, his ceiling is sky-high, but the path to reaching it is murky.
The Harbaugh-DeCosta Factor
Even though the Ravens are unlikely to draft Hunter, their skepticism is telling. Harbaugh and DeCosta are regarded as two of the NFL’s more forward-thinking minds.
If even they believe it’s too ambitious to expect Hunter to master both sides of the ball, then it forces the rest of the league to reconsider.
However, there’s a counterpoint: perhaps their comments are more about fit than capability. Maybe they just don’t see a role for Hunter in their system. That doesn’t mean he couldn’t succeed elsewhere.
Draft-Day Chaos: Anything Can Happen
Let’s not forget: all of this could change in an instant. If Tennessee pulls a surprise and doesn’t take Cam Ward, everything shifts. Cleveland and New York might both pivot to a quarterback. Or a team could trade up, altering the entire top-five structure.
Nevertheless, barring a seismic shift, Hunter seems poised to be a top-three pick. Whether that’s to Cleveland or New York remains to be seen.
A Player Unlike Any Other
Despite the uncertainty, one fact remains clear: Travis Hunter is unlike any draft prospect in recent memory. His skill set is rare, his mindset is elite, and his work ethic is unquestioned. He has the potential to change the way football is played, not just for one team, but for the entire league.
That’s why Travis Hunter divides NFL franchises. Some see a revolution; others see a distraction. And come draft night, someone is going to have to make the call.
Player Development Is Key
Assuming he lands with a team willing to try the two-way experiment, the onus will be on that organization to manage him properly. Conditioning, playbook mastery, and rest will all be crucial components of his workload.
Additionally, coaches must be careful not to overload Hunter too early. Building up one position first, then slowly introducing responsibilities from the other side of the ball, could be a more sustainable path.
Media and Fan Expectations
Of course, once Hunter is drafted, the media circus will begin. Expectations will be sky-high, especially if he’s touted as the NFL’s next two-way superstar. But managing the hype will be as important as managing his reps.
The last thing a young player needs is the weight of an entire league’s expectations crushing him before he even plays a snap.
Where Will Hunter Land?
If we follow the current draft buzz, the Browns are the likely destination. But if they decide to play it safe and take someone else, perhaps a defensive anchor or an offensive lineman, the Giants could be ready to take the risk.
Either way, whichever franchise takes the plunge, they’ll be getting a potential game-changer. But they’ll also be stepping into uncharted territory.
Expert Editorial Comment
The NFL Draft is always a balancing act between floor and ceiling, between need and talent, between safe and spectacular. With Hunter, the scale tips dramatically toward potential. And that’s both exhilarating and terrifying for front offices.
Ultimately, whether he thrives as a two-way phenom or eventually specializes in one position, the team that drafts him will be betting on greatness. And in that sense, Travis Hunter divides NFL franchises not because he’s flawed but because he’s limitless.