Two outstanding college football players are generating a lot of talk as the 2025 NFL Draft draws near: Travis Hunter, a talented two-way player for Colorado, and Miami quarterback Cam Ward. Although both are in the running for the much sought-after No. 1 overall pick, there is still disagreement over who will be called first in Green Bay in April.
Travis Hunter: A Legendary Campaign for Heisman
The 2024 Heisman Trophy winner, Travis Hunter, had a season that will never be forgotten for the Colorado Buffaloes under Deion Sanders. The 6-foot-1, 185-pound cornerback and wide receiver demonstrated his exceptional flexibility by performing well on both sides of the ball.
In addition to leading the Big 12 in receptions (92) and touchdowns (14), Hunter made a substantial defensive contribution with 32 stops, 11 pass breakups, and four interceptions. He is one of the most exciting prospects in NFL history because of his ability to excel as a wide receiver and a cornerback.
Cam Ward: A Rising Quarterback
Cam Ward of Miami, meanwhile, led the Hurricanes to a 10-2 season under head coach Mario Cristobal, taking the ACC by storm. Ward finished second in passing yards with 4,123 and led the country with 36 touchdown passes, earning him the ACC Player of the Year award and the prestigious Davey O’Brien Award.
The 6-foot-2 native of West Columbia, Texas, started his college career at Incarnate Word before moving on to Washington State and finally settling at Miami. With an astounding 17,997 career passing yards and 176 total touchdowns, Ward has gone from being a little-known high school recruit to a prominent NFL prospect.
The Debate on the Mock Draft
Ryan Wilson, an analyst for CBS Sports, believes Ward will surpass Hunter as the New York Giants’ first overall choice. Wilson lists Ward’s development as a pocket passer and his decision-making speed as the main factors that make him the starting quarterback for 2024.
“Cam Ward has made big strides this season,” Wilson wrote. “He’s playing more from the pocket, getting the ball out on time, and progressing through his reads. With his athleticism and arm strength, he’s only gotten better each year.”
Hunter’s once-in-a-generation skill is evident, though, as the New England Patriots are predicted to select him second overall. Hunter’s unique skill set as a two-way player keeps him firmly in the mix, even though quarterbacks have dominated the No. 1 spot—18 quarterbacks have gone first overall since 2000.
The April Countdown
The stage is set for these two superstars to argue for the top choice in the 2025 NFL Draft, which will take place in Green Bay, Wisconsin, from April 24 to 26. Whether it’s Hunter’s unparalleled versatility or Ward’s outstanding quarterback play, both players have solidified their place as future NFL stars.
Who is going to take first place? Fans of football will have to wait and find out.