As the 2025 NFL Draft gets closer, one name keeps popping up more and more in connection with the New England Patriots: Travis Hunter.
The Colorado Buffaloes' all-around phenom is turning heads, and draft analysts are increasingly confident that Hunter could be a perfect fit in New England at number four, especially with head coach Mike Vrabel at the helm.
Hunter is not your typical prospect. He’s a rare talent who can dominate as both a wide receiver and cornerback—two positions where the Patriots could use a spark. On offense, Hunter has the ability to make tough, contested catches and stretch the field with his quickness and ball skills. On defense, he’s the kind of lockdown corner every team wants.
The buzz around Hunter joining the Patriots has been growing. ESPN’s Matt Miller believes the Patriots would be “incredibly lucky” to have him fall to them at the fourth overall pick. “Hunter would be a day-one starter at cornerback opposite (another CU Buff) Christian Gonzalez and could also make an impact at wide receiver,” Miller said. “He can help breathe new life into New England's offense, which has struggled to find consistent playmakers.”
Hunter’s numbers from 2024 back up all the hype: 96 catches for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns, plus 10 pass breakups, four interceptions, and a forced fumble. He’s a game-changer, no matter where he lines up.
It’s becoming clearer that Hunter’s unique skills could be exactly what the Patriots need to kickstart a revival. Whether on offense or defense, he could be the player who finally helps bring New England back to relevance. The question now is: will he be the one to do it?