Travis Hunter’s NFL Combine Position Designation: Defensive Back, but Versatile Prospects Prevail
Travis Hunter, the Colorado Buffaloes’ dual-threat sensation and reigning Heisman Trophy winner, has been assigned to the defensive back position for the upcoming 2025 NFL Scouting Combine. This designation, however, holds little bearing on his long-term prospects as a two-way star.
Position Designation: A Scheduling Tool
The position assignment at the combine is primarily a scheduling tool for managing the influx of over 300 invitees. Attendees are grouped by position, determining their daily itinerary for physical testing, media availability, and team interviews.
For Hunter, his defensive back designation does not restrict him from participating in wide receiver drills or indicate his future role in the NFL. It merely dictates his schedule for core combine events, such as:
- Athletic testing (e.g., 40-yard dash, vertical jump)
- Measurements (e.g., height, weight, hand size)
- Media interviews
Hunter’s Likely Schedule
Hunter is expected to follow the schedule outlined for defensive backs at the combine:
Thursday, February 27:
- Arrive in Indianapolis
- Media availability
- Athletic testing
Friday, February 28:
- Measurements
- Team interviews
Saturday, March 1:
- On-field workouts (defensive back drills)
- Possible participation in wide receiver drills
Historical Precedents for Multi-Position Prospects
Hunter is far from the first player to showcase versatility at the combine. Numerous prospects have participated in drills for multiple positions, including:
- Shaq Thompson (2015): Running back and linebacker drills
- Jabrill Peppers (2017): Linebacker and defensive back drills
- Christian McCaffrey (2017): Running back at the combine, slot receiver and kick returner at his pro day
Long-Term Implications
Hunter’s position designation at the combine does not define his future. Teams will evaluate his overall athleticism, skill set, and potential based on his performance in drills and interviews. His ability to excel at both cornerback and wide receiver will only enhance his draft stock.
Conclusion
While Hunter’s defensive back designation at the combine provides a framework for his schedule, it does not pigeonhole him into a specific role in the NFL. His unique versatility and exceptional playmaking ability will ultimately determine his position and impact at the professional level.
