The Dallas Cowboys are no strangers to shaking up the NFL Draft, and 2025 might be no different. Rumors are swirling that team owner Jerry Jones and personnel chief Will McClay are seriously evaluating the idea of trading up from the No. 12 overall pick to target Colorado’s two-way sensation, Travis Hunter.
With lingering needs at both wide receiver and cornerback, Hunter’s rare versatility makes him a compelling option, perhaps too compelling to ignore.
A two-for-one solution to Dallas’ biggest weaknesses
The Cowboys enter this year’s draft still searching for an explosive No. 2 receiver to complement CeeDee Lamb, while also needing depth and star power in the secondary. At first glance, it seems like those issues would require two separate picks.
But Hunter, a true two-way threat, could be the exception. His elite skillset on both sides of the ball makes him a potential game-changer in the mold of legends-only this time, not just dabbling like Deion Sanders once did. Hunter has shown that he can dominate full-time as both a receiver and a cornerback.
Would Dallas really trade up? The math makes it tempting
Speculation suggests that Dallas could offer the No. 12 pick, a second-rounder, and a fifth-round pick to move into the top three, possibly dealing with the Browns or Giants. More aggressive packages include future fourth-rounders or even a current starter to sweeten the deal. Trade value charts say the Cowboys come out slightly ahead in both scenarios, but the bigger win might come in terms of on-field impact.
Hunter’s upside outweighs the price
If McClay believes Hunter is a franchise cornerstone, the Cowboys may be willing to pay the price. After all, what’s more valuable: two good players at 12 and 44, or one generational talent who fills two critical roles from day one? This isn’t about nostalgia or headlines, though Jerry Jones loves both, it’s about efficiency and impact.
The Cowboys‘ Super Bowl window won’t stay open forever. Taking a swing on Travis Hunter might be the boldest move yet, but it could also be the smartest.
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