Travis Hunter, the electrifying Heisman Trophy winner from the University of Colorado, has dazzled as a rare two-way football star. Playing nearly 1,400 snaps last season—more than any FBS player—his dominance as both a cornerback and wide receiver has fueled speculation about his potential as the No. 1 overall draft pick.
Hunter’s versatility has drawn comparisons to Shohei Ohtani. While his confidence spans multiple sports, he humorously concedes that baseball remains his weakness.
Heisman Winner Travis Hunter Admits His Biggest Athletic Challenge
Hunter, the electrifying two-way star from Colorado and reigning Heisman Trophy winner, has earned comparisons to Ohtani for his rare versatility. While Hunter excels as both a wide receiver and cornerback, he acknowledges that baseball is a different challenge altogether.
“I can’t hit a 99-mile-per-hour fastball,” Hunter admitted on “The Travis Hunter Show.“
Addressing comparisons to Ohtani, he clarified what he meant to say.
View this post on Instagram
“I’m not saying what I do is harder than what he does. But physically, football is nonstop—you’re running, getting hit,” Hunter said. “I’d love to see someone try to do what I do. And then you let me know who can do it and let me know that you can do it. They just be trying to find stuff to bring the character down.”
Despite his respect for Ohtani’s historic achievements, Hunter humorously conceded that baseball is beyond his skill set.
“I can tell you right now, I can’t even play baseball,” Hunter said. “So I know I can’t hit the baseball, let alone throw it. So, just saying what I do is harder. You gotta run nonstop. And you gotta get the hit. So, from experience. So that’s what I’m saying. Neither is easy to do.”
Travis Hunter Falls to Jaguars in Latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft
A recent Pro Football Focus mock draft by John Kosko saw a quarterback-heavy start, allowing a premier prospect to land with the Jacksonville Jaguars at No. 5 overall. With three quarterbacks taken in the first three picks, the Jaguars had the opportunity to select between two elite talents. Ultimately, they chose Hunter.
“I would like to see Hunter as a full-time wide receiver in the NFL,” Kosko said. “The generational talent falls to the Jaguars here as three quarterback-needy teams drive the blue-chip prospects down the board. Regardless of which position Hunter plays, his talent would elevate the Jaguars.”
KEEP READING: Vernon Davis Gives Travis Hunter Key Advice on Achieving Greatness
Hunter, who has expressed his desire to play both cornerback and wide receiver at the professional level, fills Jacksonville’s needs on both sides of the ball.
Last season, Hunter allowed a 56% completion rate on 41 targets, limiting receivers to under 10 yards per catch with four interceptions and seven pass breakups. Offensively, he caught 79% of his 121 targets, averaging 13.1 yards per catch with 15 touchdowns.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
