Former NFL Coach Thinks Travis Hunter Needs To Pick One Position
Yesterday at 04:36 PM
Travis Hunter proved his value this season at Colorado, winning the Heisman Trophy because of his ability to shine as a cornerback and wide receiver. Will he be able to dominate both positions in the NFL? That appears to be the million dollar question.
On Tuesday's edition of Colin Cowherd's FS1 show, "The Herd," former Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy offered his thoughts on Hunter's incredible season at Colorado. As you'd expect, the longtime football coach had nothing but great things to say about the NFL prospect.
"Don't get me wrong, I think the kid is a tremendous athlete," Bieniemy told Cowherd. "I'm selfish, I'm on the offensive side of the ball. I want him to play receiver for me. I watch all the dynamic things the kid does. I would use him just like I'd use any other player - jet sweeps, certain routes. The kid can run, he has unbelievable hand-eye coordinator, he can track the football, he can come in and out his breaks, he transitions well."
Bieniemy was then asked if Hunter would be able to play both cornerback and wide receiver at a high level in the NFL. His response was really interesting.
"I think the kid can be an outstanding receiver, but you got to pick and choose a side in my humble opinion," Bieniemy said. "Because it takes away."
Eric Bieniemy tells @ColinCowherd how he would use Travis Hunter in the NFL:
— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) December 17, 2024
"I think the kid can be an outstanding receiver... You've got to pick and choose a side." pic.twitter.com/ZDlyLzTpHo
We're not sure if other NFL coaches would agree with Bieniemy's assessment. They may try to get the best of both worlds with Hunter.
Of course, Hunter could dictate his position in the pros. If he wants to play wide receiver, we highly doubt teams will tell him no.
Hunter had 92 receptions for 1,152 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns this season for Colorado. On the defensive side of the football, he racked up 31 tackles, 11 pass break-ups, four interceptions and a forced fumble.
Most draft analysts have Hunter ranked as the top prospect. He might not go No. 1 though since there are plenty of quarterback-needy teams. That could open the door for his teammate, Shedeur Sanders, to come off the board first.
Related: Travis Hunter Reacts To His Girlfriend's Behavior At Heisman Ceremony
