John Harbaugh doesn’t think Travis Hunter will be able to play both defense and offense in the NFL

Travis Hunter, Colorado Buffaloes' two-way WR and CB, recently admitted he is playing both positions or will retire ahead of the NFL Draft.

John Harbaugh doesn’t think Travis Hunter will be able to play both defense and offense in the NFL

Travis Hunter, John Harbaugh (Images via CBS Sports/Getty Images)

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, few prospects are as debated as Colorado’s Travis Hunter. The Heisman Trophy winner starred as both a cornerback and a wide receiver in college. His elite production on both sides of the ball has captured attention league-wide.

In the past few days, Hunter has publicly expressed a strong desire to continue in a two-way role. He even admitted to CBS Sports that he might look into an early retirement from the game altogether if he’s not allowed to play both positions. Hunter also had said that he hoped his name is announced with both his positions during the NFL Draft as well.

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However, NFL coaches are raising concerns about the feasibility of such a demanding approach. Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh offered a grounded perspective on Hunter’s ambition. Harbaugh highlighted the immense workload and time required to master either position. He questioned whether one player could sustain elite performance at both spots simultaneously.

In a recent press conference, Harbaugh opened up on the NFL’s complexity. He noted that this complex often forces rookies to focus on mastering just one position. Even top-tier prospects require time to adjust to the professional level’s pace and depth.

There’s not enough hours in the day to be completely immersed in both roles. You can probably play one full-time and be featured in special packages on the other side.

John Harbaugh said

Ravens GM Eric DeCosta echoed this approach, noting the importance of identifying a player’s primary position early.

Cleveland Browns GM might not agree with John Harbaugh’s words on Travis Hunter

The Cleveland Browns are, however, not at all listening to the naysayers. They are reportedly open to deploying top prospect Travis Hunter on both sides of the ball. As the holders of the second overall pick, their goal at the present moment might just be getting the player in the team.

Travis Hunter
Travis Hunter (Image via AP)

Hunter, a standout at Colorado, excelled at both cornerback and wide receiver during his college career. As the 2025 NFL Draft nears, Hunter’s unique two-way ability has become a major storyline.

Few NFL players have succeeded playing full-time roles on both offense and defense in the modern era. Hunter’s case is unusual, as he logged heavy snaps at two demanding positions throughout college. Now, it appears the Browns might be ready to give him a real opportunity to continue both.

General manager Andrew Berry drew a rare cross-sport comparison to Shohei Ohtani to explain Hunter’s potential. Berry emphasized that Ohtani is able to handle two sides perfectly.

I don’t see it that way. I think it’s — and I’m going to use a [cross-sport analogy] now — it’s a little bit like [Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei] Ohtani, right? Where he’s playing one side, he’s an outstanding player. If he’s a pitcher or he’s a hitter, he’s an outstanding player. You obviously get a unicorn if you use him both ways.

Andrew Berry noted in a recent pre-draft conference

All said and done, whether the Browns actually allow full two-way duties or phase him in gradually remains unclear. However, they are not the only team who’s willing to test the player in two different positions, even the New York Giants are up for it. The openness shown by the two teams to the idea makes them a potential fit for one of the draft’s rarest talents.

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