The New England Patriots have plenty of needs to fill this offseason. So why not get the rare player who can play both sides of the ball at an elite level in the 2025 NFL Draft?

That was the argument made by ESPN’s Field Yates in his most recent mock draft. In his projection that went up Wednesday, Yates had the Patriots taking Colorado’s Travis Hunter, who he calls “the most electric player in the class and top-ranked prospect on my board.”

Hunter is a unique prospect. Currently the frontrunner to win this year’s Heisman Trophy, Hunter plays full-time as both a cornerback and receiver for the Buffaloes — and does both at an elite level.

Here’s Yates’ full analysis of the pick:

“The most electric player in the class and top-ranked prospect on my board, Hunter offers difference-making ability on both sides of the ball. He has rare acceleration and high-end playmaking traits as a receiver, but I also see lockdown cover skills — including elite ball skills and instincts — as a cornerback. Consider that he not only is sixth in receiving yards (1,152) and second in TD catches (14) on offense, but he also has four interceptions and 10 pass breakups on defense.

“The Patriots have a significant need at left tackle, so targeting someone such as Texas’ Kelvin Banks Jr. is at least a conversation. But once factoring in holes at both receiver and the cornerback spot opposite of Christian Gonzalez, Hunter is too good to pass up.”

As Yates notes, the Patriots are in dire need of help along the offensive line. However, there are multiple ways that can be addressed, whether it’s via trade or free agency.

However, this projection presented an enticing scenario. Yates had quarterbacks coming off the board with the first two picks. As a result, his No. 1 prospect was left ripe for the picking at No. 3.

Tackle remains an option for New England. This year’s top prospects include Texas’ Kelvin Banks and LSU’s Will Campbell

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