"Even the top dogs hating on me": Travis Hunter vows to defy "haters" doubting his two-way ability in the NFL

Travis Hunter has excelled significantly in playing both sides of the ball in college football. His elite versatility in the landscape is highly regarded following a series of brilliant performances as a cornerback and wide receiver for Colorado.

However, there are doubts if he can succeed as a two-way player in the NFL. Considering the demanding nature of the league, many analysts believe Hunter will encounter significant difficulty if he decides to play on both sides of the ball on the professional stage.

Nonetheless, the former five-star recruit isn't bothered about the noise fon his two-way ability. In an interview with Yahoo Sports' Caroline Fenton, Travis Hunter noted the criticism and doubts regarding his playing positions have continued to fuel his motivation.

“There's a lot of people that have been telling me that since I've been playing it," Hunter said.

"So, I'm just gonna continue to prove them wrong. Keep proving the haters wrong. There's a lot of haters, even the top dogs, top dogs are hating on me, but I let it go through one ear out the other, just let them keep hating."

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Travis Hunter wants to be the first modern NFL two-way star

Playing on both sides of the ball is a rare occurrence in the NFL, but a host of names have done it in the past. That includes Hunter's coach Deion Sanders and Charlie Woodson. Nonetheless, they were long ago, and the game has evolved since then.

Travis Hunter’s goal is to be the first modern two-way star in the NFL. The former Jackson State player has solidified his reputation as one of the most versatile players in college football and hopes to keep that up when he transitions to the NFL in 2025.

“My goal is to continue to be a two-way player,” Hunter told Forbes. “If given the opportunity, I’d strive to continue making an impact on both ends of the field, helping my team wherever they need me most.

“One of my greatest strengths is my versatility as a player, and I love the challenge of learning and excelling in both roles and pushing my limits.”

Travis Hunter has recorded 30 receptions for 342 yards and five touchdowns on offense in three games this season. He has also recorded 11 tackles, four passes defended and one interception on defense and is geared to do much better as the season progresses.

Hunter's efforts earned himthe prestigious Paul Hornung Award for the nation's most versatile player during the 2023 season. He has a good chance of retaining that in 2024.