Travis Hunter has defied all odds to become one of football’s rare two-way superstars, excelling as both a wide receiver and a cornerback. From college matchups to high-pressure moments, he’s proven that playing both sides of the ball isn’t just a gimmick, it’s where he belongs.
Yet, despite his electric performances and unwavering drive, Hunter continues to face skepticism from those who doubt the sustainability of his two-way role ambitions.
The latest critic to speak out is Charles Woodson, the newly appointed minority owner of the Cleveland Browns. Woodson’s remarks add to the ongoing conversation around Hunter’s demanding path.
Charles Woodson Highlights the Harsh NFL Reality
Charles Woodson knows a thing or two about the demands of the NFL. After all, he played both sides of the ball himself early in his career. But when it comes to Travis Hunter’s ambitious goal of excelling as a two-way player in the pros, Woodson is sounding a note of caution.
While acknowledging Hunter’s college success, he stressed the harsh reality of what lies ahead. “The game just leans on you in the NFL a different way than it does in college,” Woodson said.
It’s a pointed reminder that the physical and mental toll of professional football can break even the most gifted athletes. In college, Hunter’s athleticism and stamina stood out. But in the NFL, the stakes are higher, the hits are harder, and the grind is relentless.
While Woodson’s comments may seem dismissive of Hunter’s potential, they highlight just how rare and difficult his journey will be if he sticks with both roles.
Woodson Warns Travis Hunter About a Full-Time Two-Way Role
Charles Woodson’s critique of Travis Hunter’s two-way aspirations comes from a place of concern, not criticism. Drawing on his experience, Woodson warned that playing both sides of the ball at the NFL level could wear Hunter down far too quickly.
“And I’d hate to see him age in dog years, you know what I mean? Trying to play both ways and try to play every snap,” he said, painting a vivid picture of the physical toll that approach could take.
While Woodson doesn’t dismiss the idea entirely, he’s clear about setting boundaries. “If he’s an offensive starter, if that’s the way they’re looking at it, maybe you have some plays here or there. Defensively, I think that’s fine.”
However, he goes ahead to caution against playing both ways full-time, “But to go out there and try to play every snap, I say no.” For Woodson, longevity matters more than flash. After all, Woodson was able to play 18 seasons in the pros after sacrificing his two-way aspirations coming out of Michigan.
Woodson Praises Hunter’s Talent Despite Concerns
Despite his presumptions about the toll a two-way role could take on Travis Hunter, Charles Woodson made it clear that his comments come with deep respect for the young star’s talent.
“I’m looking forward to his play just like everyone. Just a, tremendous, tremendous player,” Woodson remarked.
He recognizes the electrifying skillset that has made Hunter a standout at every level so far, and like the rest of the football world, he’s eager to see how that talent translates in the NFL.
Critique aside, Woodson’s admiration is evident. Whether Hunter plays one side or both, all eyes will be on him. And for a player built on defying expectations, that’s exactly where he thrives.
