“Does it ever drives you crazy just how fast the night changes?” This One Direction song perfectly aligns with the situation of Travis Hunter, the two-way star of the Colorado Buffs. Two weeks before, he was the talk of the town as a top NFL draft pick or a top Heisman contender, and whatnot. But now everyone’s opinion changed about Hunter’s two-way skills following the Buffs’ defeat against Kansas State. Surprising right?

Today, NFL insider Skrip took to X to share his opinion on Travis Hunter’s two-way candidacy in CFB after their Kansas State game, saying, “Travis Hunter is an amazing athlete and super fun to watch, but he’s the product of a system that allows him to play on both sides of the ba-l. You don’t think like Malik Nabers or any other athletic WR could’ve also played CB at the college level?” This sure raises a hell lot of concern regarding his future projections as well. However, looking at Hunter’s overall performance this season, that statement is quite weird. Also, what’s the harm in giving an outstanding player a chance to demonstrate his skill set?

Travis Hunter owns up to his game. As a receiver in the game, he has made 46 catches, gained 561 yards, and scored six touchdowns. Now, Hunter, as a cornerback, has recorded 15 tackles, three defended passes, and two interceptions. This indicates the reason he has been allowed to play on both sides of the field.

But this kind of two-way play doesn’t come without a cost. During the game against Kansas State, Hunter took a hard hit while making a 14-yard catch and injured his right shoulder. Even though he got hurt, he stuck around on the sidelines and cheered on the Buffs until the game was over. With the uncertainty surrounding his return, Deion Sanders and the Buffs are now facing numerous troubles.

Well, there is no denying that he’s a great player both on and off the field. But his injury might make some people wonder if he can handle both offense and defense. Even the NFL pros have doubts about that.

Doubts rising on Travis Hunter’s two-way game

Well, Buffs star two-way phenom Travis Hunter is the name that comes up whenever there is a discussion about the top NFL draft pick for 2025. But there has been a constant debate on whether he could really play well on both sides or not. Following the notion, recently former NFL quarterback Cam Newton expressed his concerns and also highlighted that Hunter should play in defense, saying, “Yes, I do think he can play both. Now, do I think the volume of plays—can he play 72 plays on defense and another 57 plays on offense in the NFL? No. I think a guy with Travis’ skillset focuses on defense.”

Now, Cam Newton doesn’t think Hunter should completely give up his dream of playing both offense and defense. He suggests focusing on one position and playing the other part-time.

But, some people, including Hunter’s coach Deion Sanders, believe he can excel at both in the NFL. Before his injury, there were rumors that the Los Angeles Rams were interested in him as both a cornerback and a wide receiver. We’ll see if that’s still the case. However, his injury has already hurt his Heisman chances, and he might have to choose one position in the NFL.