Despite the controversy and the considerable pushback from Ashton Jeanty fans, the decision has been made. Travis Hunter of the Colorado Buffaloes is the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner. With his two-way prowess, Hunter figures to be a key piece of the 2025 NFL Draft, with multiple teams lining up for his services.
However, success in the NFL is a far different beast. Over the years, many college standouts have failed to deliver at the professional level. For Hunter to garner success in the league, he got some expert advice from one of the NFL’s all-time greats, Michael Irvin.
Michael Irvin Gives Travis Hunter the Recipe for Success
What sets Hunter apart from most players is his ability to play both sides of the ball at a high level. Whether it is as a receiver or a defensive back, he has shown immense prowess. That duality led him to a Heisman Trophy, with his combined excellence edging out the record-breaking rushing from Jeanty.
According to Irvin, the same formula needs to happen in the NFL. The Hall of Famer went so far as to suggest that the youngster should put the word out before the draft about his desire to play both ends of the ball.
“If I’m Travis Hunter, all jokes aside, I’m putting it out right now. If you’re not letting me play both ways, don’t draft me. I fully intend to play both ways in the National Football League…I’m not letting them dictate my story. I’m telling you, ‘No, I’m playing both ways.'”
.@michaelirvin88: Travis Hunter should tell NFL teams if you won’t let me play both sides, don’t draft me. 🤷🏾♂️
“Shohei Ohtani my money to me.” 😂 #TravisHunter #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/QfyJBBPvuK
— Speak (@SpeakOnFS1) December 17, 2024
The formula has been successful for a ton of players previously. Even Irvin made the instant comparison to Shohei Ohtani. The generational two-way talent signed a $700 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. However, one of the key selling points for Ohtani, too, was his ability as a batter and pitcher.
So, Irvin believes a similar model for Hunter is the best way to go. And, as he puts it, “Three years from now (when his rookie contract expires), y’all will Shohei Ohtani my money to me (show a ton of money to me).” From one of the more expressive voices in sports media, the double entendre was hard to miss.
By betting on his two-way prowess, Hunter exposes himself to a ton of wear and tear. However, it might also be the best course of action for him to find elite success (and elite dollars) in the NFL.