Mel Kiper makes shocking comparison for Travis Hunter heading into 2025 NFL Draft: “Best player to draft over Shedeur Sanders”

ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. has stirred up the 2025 NFL draft conversation with an unexpected take. He ranked Colorado's Travis Hunter as the draft's premier talent, placing him above Shedeur Sanders.

Hunter, the Heisman Trophy winner, revolutionized college football with his rare ability to dominate on both sides of the ball. Sanders, meanwhile, established himself as one of college football's elite quarterbacks under the guidance of his father, Colorado coach Deion Sanders.

During Wednesday's appearance on ESPN's "Get Up," Kiper weighed in on the intensifying debate about the draft's top prospect. His assessment particularly focused on Hunter's potential fit with the Cleveland Browns.

"That's Travis Hunter from Colorado, be it wide receiver corner, Cleveland needs a dynamic presence at that wide receiver spot," Kiper said. "Sprinkle them in a corner. They go Travis Hunter, best player to draft over the quarterback in Shedeur Sanders."

Hunter's 2024 statistics back up Kiper's bold stance. His offensive prowess showed in 96 receptions, 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns. His lockdown coverage skills as a cornerback made him the first true two-way star in modern college football.

Draft projections reveal Intriguing team fits for Travis Hunter and others

NCAA Football: Alamo Bowl-Brigham Young at Colorado - Source: Imagn

Recent mock drafts paint a fascinating picture of how the top picks might unfold. Sports Illustrated's Daniel Flick projects Travis Hunter to the Jacksonville Jaguars at No. 5, noting the team's struggles with the NFL's worst pass defense (257 yards per game).

The potential landing spots for the Colorado stars carry interesting narratives. Hunter's projected selection by Jacksonville would bring him back to his home state. This timing works well with his upcoming wedding to fiancee Leanna Lenee during rookie camp in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Kiper's mock draft published on Wednesday shows a different scenario. He sees the Tennessee Titans taking Miami's Cam Ward at No. 1, citing Ward's impressive 39 touchdown passes and 4,313 passing yards in 2024. The Browns would then select Hunter at No. 2, while Sanders goes third to the New York Giants.

The Giants' potential interest in Sanders makes sense given their offensive struggles. Their 3-14 record and 16.1 points per game average in 2024 highlight their need for offensive firepower. Sanders' marketing appeal adds another dimension, as he would enter the media capital with several top-tier endorsements already in hand.

As the NFL Combine approaches in late February, Hunter and Sanders will face intense scrutiny. Their performances could reshape draft boards and spark debates about positional value versus raw talent. With less than 100 days until draft night, the spotlight on Colorado's dynamic duo shows no signs of dimming.