With the 2025 NFL draft approaching, the excitement surrounding elite prospects is reaching a fever pitch. Among the hottest topics is Colorado’s two-way sensation Travis Hunter, who, according to CBS Sports analyst Ross Tucker, is still undervalued.
Ross Tucker Hypes Travis Hunter as NFL Unicorn, Dismisses Abdul Carter Comparison
Tucker, who was on “The Rich Eisen Show” with guest host Tom Pelissero, did not mince words when comparing top prospects, making a compelling case for Hunter as a generational talent.
He also delivered a cold assessment on Penn State linebacker Abdul Carter, whom he respects but would never choose ahead of Hunter under any circumstances.
“I love Abdul Carter… but I’m not taking Abdul Carter over Travis Hunter,” Tucker said. “A guy that can truly affect both sides of the ball — and I think will at the NFL level — I’m taking Travis Hunter number two.”
Tucker, who called Colorado’s game against Colorado State last season and visited team practices, praised Hunter’s natural abilities and exceptional talent.
Tucker underscored Hunter’s uniqueness by comparing his field awareness to that of exceptional baseball outfielders and graceful basketball scorers.
Draft experts agree. According to Tucker, ESPN’s Todd McShay ranks Hunter as the top wide receiver and cornerback in this year’s draft class, an unprecedented feat in contemporary evaluation.
Fran Duffy even developed two distinct scouting profiles for Hunter at each position. Both versions ranked among his top five overall.
The biggest question: Can Travis Hunter realistically play both offense and defense at the professional level?
Tucker and Pelissero talked about the logistical and technical challenges of doing so in the NFL. The game’s complexity, meeting schedules, and the requirement for daily practice at each position make playing both ways a challenging task.
Tucker feels Hunter will need to start as a full-time cornerback before gradually transitioning into offensive packages.
“You can give him a small introductory package of five to ten plays where he knows what route he’s running,” said Tucker. “You can’t do it the opposite way.”
Nonetheless, several coaches believe Hunter may be more NFL-ready as a wide receiver, depending on the team that chooses him.
If a team like New England picks him high in the draft, Tucker believes it would be more logical to employ him on offense first, especially if that addresses an immediate need.
Tucker believes Hunter possesses the mindset, talent, and work ethic to match — and possibly exceed — that level of performance.
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“He’s one of one,” Tucker declared. “We’re just not talking about it enough.”
As draft day approaches, it is evident that Travis Hunter is more than simply a top prospect; he is a potential NFL unicorn. And if Ross Tucker’s bold takes pay off, some NFL team could land the most versatile player in decades.
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