Travis Hunter? Giants GM Joe Schoen makes sweeping statement about whom they’ll draft at No.3

Travis Hunter, the 2024 Heisman winner, is expected by many sportsbooks to be drafted in the top three of the upcoming draft.

Travis Hunter? Giants GM Joe Schoen makes sweeping statement about whom they’ll draft at No.3

Travis Hunter, Joey Schoen (Image via CBS Sports/AP)

The New York Giants hold the third overall pick in next week’s NFL Draft and are reportedly eyeing Colorado Buffaloes standout Travis Hunter. The two-way star is seen as a rare prospect with the ability to contribute meaningfully on both sides of the ball.

The Big Blue’s general manager, Joe Schoen, addressed the media on Wednesday, highlighting Hunter’s ability to play both cornerback and wide receiver. The GM admitted that he believes Hunter’s skill set is not only rare but also potentially impactful in a variety of roles. With proven production and elite stamina, Hunter remains a strong contender for the team’s first-round selection.

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Hunter’s preference to play both offense and defense has been consistent, and the Giants appear open to that possibility. Schoen acknowledged the risks of a dual-role player but emphasized the importance of maximizing talent. The team is prepared to manage the physical demands if it results in elite production on the field.

You’re always worried about the length of the season. But he’s a unique athlete that I think will be able to do both. It’d be hard to keep him off the field, and he’s motivated to play both ways.

Joe Schoen said

The primary concern moving forward is how well Hunter can handle the mental workload of NFL-level schemes. Schoen emphasized that the complexity of weekly game plans will test Hunter’s ability to learn and execute quickly.

However, there are a few other plays in place as well. The fact that the Giants have brought Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston adds more credibility to this source. However, the earlier claim by Deion Sanders noted that the Cleveland Browns are eyeing Hunter as well as his collegiate teammate with an assured contract.

The Cleveland Browns might end up scooping Travis Hunter off the registry before the New York Giants

The fact that Joe Schoen opened up on playing Travis Hunter on offense and defense might have kicked some balls in motion across the league. Despite the uncertainty of how it will pan out, a two-way star is a very dangerous option and advantage for one team.

2025 NFL Draft will reveal if Travis Hunter plays both ways
Travis Hunter (Image via Open Source/X)

As the Draft closes in on the teams, the Cleveland Browns are advised to go with the Colorado Buffaloes standout instead of Penn State’s edge Abdul Carter. In his latest mock draft with Field Yates, ESPN’s draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. also shed light on what shapes the Browns’ choice.

Cleveland lacks playmakers, and it would get one on both sides of the ball in Hunter. I’d play him primarily on offense, where his speed, ball skills and instincts helped him to 1,258 yards last season. But the Browns could also sprinkle him in at corner, especially in high-stakes parts of the game. Hunter has been my No. 1 prospect through the whole draft cycle and has the chance to be special in the pros.

Mel Kiper Jr. wrote in his latest mock with Field Yates

Travis Hunter won’t have to retire either, considering that the Browns’ GM, Andrew Barry, has admitted to using the Heisman winner in two different ways in the coming season. Nevertheless, it is good to take the draft with a pinch of salt as things may unfortunately skid out of one’s plans. The whole circus of Colorado retiring their jersey, him declaring he will retire if not allowed to play on both sides, the hope remains that the player will prove that he’s worth it.