Scouting Report: Weaknesses

• Will need to add functional mass to his frame to better stack-and-shed against NFL-caliber blocking receivers
• Occasionally relies on recovery speed over technique in press coverage - will need to be more disciplined with initial jam timing
• Durability concerns due to missed time in each collegiate season - workload management will be crucial
• Can get overaggressive jumping underneath routes - NFL quarterbacks will exploit these tendencies
• Would benefit from more consistency in tackle technique - sometimes leads with shoulder instead of wrapping up

Scouting Report: Summary

Hunter represents a transformative talent who could revolutionize how NFL teams think about positional flexibility. His rare ability to win as both a shutdown corner and dynamic receiver presents fascinating strategic possibilities for creative coaching staffs. As a cornerback, he brings elite pattern recognition, exceptional fluidity, and ball skills that could make him one of the league's premier defenders. His receiver background manifests in advanced route diagnosis and exceptional hands - he attacks the ball at its highest point whether playing offense or defense. Meanwhile, his receiving skillset (92/1,152/14 in 2024) offers legitimate WR1 potential, with precise route-running, natural hands, and explosive run-after-catch ability that could make him a nightmare for opposing secondaries.

While the temptation will be strong to utilize Hunter as a true two-way player, his highest ceiling lies at cornerback where his combination of athleticism, instincts, and technical prowess projects him as a potential shutdown defender. That said, his receiving abilities shouldn't be shelved completely - smart coordinators could deploy him as a situational offensive weapon in critical moments, similar to how Deion Sanders was used during his prime. Picture a defensive star who can step in on key third downs or in the red zone, forcing defenses to account for a corner who runs routes with wide receiver precision.

Hunter's closest historical comparison remains Champ Bailey, another two-way college star who became a Hall of Fame cornerback while retaining the ability to contribute offensively when needed. Hunter brings similar athletic gifts with even more refined receiving skills, potentially offering a new blueprint for positional versatility at the NFL level. While his ultimate value will be highest as a boundary corner who can eliminate an opponent's top receiver, his offensive capabilities make him one of the most intriguing defensive prospects in draft history. A guaranteed top-5 selection who could easily go first overall, Hunter has the potential to become both a shutdown corner and the NFL's most dangerous offensive secret weapon.