Rams’ Puka Nacua Excited To See If Travis Hunter Can Be 2-Way Player In NFL

Colorado Buffaloes star Travis Hunter was named the 90th recipient of the Heisman Trophy this month after one of the most unique seasons in college football history.

Hunter was a significant contributor on both sides of the ball, making him the first full-time, two-way player to earn the honor since the early 1960s.

As a wide receiver, Hunter caught 92 passes for 1,152 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. He also thrived as a defensive back, recording 31 tackles, four interceptions and 15 passes defensed.

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua thinks it will be difficult, but is excited to see if Hunter can remain a two-way player in the NFL, via Chris Tomasson of the Denver Gazette:

Rams WR Puka Nacua said it remains to be seen if Colorado star Travis Hunter can play regularly on both sides of the ball in the NFL. “I’m not sure. I think it definitely would be a challenge but I think he’s got a great skill set. But it will be exciting to see how he turns out”

— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) December 22, 2024

There have been several two-way players in NFL history, but they are rare today. Among the most notable is Deion Sanders, who is coincidentally the head coach of Colorado.

While it is difficult to be a full-time, two-way player in the NFL, Hunter has certainly shown the talent to at least give it a try when he officially enters the league.

Hunter is expected to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft and should be a top-three selection, along with Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders.

In addition to winning the Heisman Trophy this year, Hunter was the 2024 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and also won the Walter Camp, Bednarik and Biletnikoff Awards.

Sean McVay: Being first in NFC West ‘doesn’t change anything’ for Rams

The Rams entered Week 17 with a one-game lead over the Seattle Seahawks for first place in the NFC West. Despite being in position to make the playoffs, head coach Sean McVay is keeping the focus on one game at a time.

“It doesn’t change anything that we’ve talked about for the last handful of weeks,” McVay said.

“Unless the season ended today, it’s all just temporary. We have to continue to be one day at a time, one moment at a time, and one game at a time like what we’ve been. I think it’s a testament to the group to be able to handle some of the things that they’ve handled over the last few weeks, but all of it is not relevant unless we continue to do something about it. The only thing that we can do is have a great week of preparation against a very challenging opponent who we have tremendous respect for.”