Deion Sanders promotes Travis Hunter's ability to become top NFL draft pick

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders had success playing a number of different roles in the NFL. He believes that current Buffaloes two-way star Travis Hunter will be able to do the same.

Sanders joined the Pat McAfee show on Monday and shared that he believes Hunter will be the top player in the draft on both sides of the ball when he enters the NFL draft.

Travis Hunter isn’t eligible for next year’s draft, but he will be eligible for the 2025 draft.

“He’s the first pick overall when it’s his opportunity to go in the NFL draft,” Deion Sanders said. “First pick overall. On both sides of the ball.”

Hunter caught 11 passes for 119 yards, made three tackles and added a diving interception to help Colorado stun TCU on the road in his first game in a Buffaloes uniform.

The sophomore played 129 snaps and was all over the field, making play-after-play on offense and defense. Deion Sanders believes that he can relate to Hunter better than other coaches would be able to.

“They haven’t done it. … How are you going to take me somewhere that you haven’t been? How are you going to tell me to do something that you haven’t done? I don’t get down like that; I identify with the Travis Hunters and the others that’s coming to Boulder, Colorado, because they say they want to play both ways. … But you’ve gotta be dominant on one side before I put you on the other side. Because now both of us are looking like a fool,” Sanders said.

“So Travis Hunter – I know what he needs at practice. I know the study habits, the tips. I know what this guy is thinking and what he’s fathoming in his mind. I can look at him on the sideline, ‘OK, get him out, get him out, get him out. Give him three plays.’ And I know when he’s ready to go back. I’ve been there and done that. … Travis doesn’t get full, man. He’s always hungry.”

Travis Hunter has already proven that he can make big-time plays on both sides of the ball in college football. Sanders believes he is more than capable of doing so in the NFL, too. Time will tell if he gets the opportunity to do so.

“Only a fool won’t let him do both, because he’s going to be your best player on either side,” Sanders said. “That kid is straight different. He’s different.”