It's not too often we see young athletes bred and play universal
positions. Meaning how many football players can be the best player in
two different categories? Colorado wide receiver/cornerback Travis
Hunter can add the Heisman Trophy to his accolades for 2024. Being
the best player and battling each week makes Hunter truly one of one.
A rare breed of speed, physicality and big heart would sum up Hunter. A
five star recruit out of high school, he was heavily recruited by power
five colleges. Having the ability to play both wide receiver/cornerback. It
wasn't until Coach Deion "Primetime" Sanders arrived at Jackson State
and flipped Hunter's commitment to an HBCU where Sanders was hired
to rebuild a once promising program.
It was mind boggling a highly recruited prospect didn't commit and
changed the narrative of HBCU. You can say it was the "Prime" effect
and to play the position; while learning from the best to ever do it.
Hunter became a superstar overnight and believing in Coach Prime's
message of "Thee I Believe." He became a "son" to Sanders, along with
fellow Sanders boys Shedeur and Shiloh who convinced Hunter to join
and become apart of something bigger than football.
Upon Prime leaving Jackson State after a successful tenure, a school in
Boulder needed a makeover. Sanders' sons and Hunter followed suit.
Bring the swagger and bright lights in showing nothing was a fluke. It
wasn't easy but with that came a bigger assignment: proving he
belonged in tougher competition. As the Buffs were beginning to
kickstart a program who hadn't seen this much attention since the days
of Kordell Stewart.
A freak injury in 2023 sidelined Hunter after a vicious hit during a
matchup with Colorado State. Some said it was intentional in part of the
in-state rival's coach radio show leading into the game. Everyone had it
out for Colorado, as they embarked hatred from the national media and
pundits alike. Hunter was able to return a few weeks later, but the
Buffaloes season was little to be desired.
This season in which the Buffs had their first winning season in years,
led by Hunter's exceptional play on both sides. Totaling 92 receptions,
1,152 yards with 14 touchdowns. Those were the numbers he produced
in his junior season playing receiver. On the defensive side, (4)
interceptions would be good enough to give scouts nightmares in not
throwing the ball his direction. Either way, Hunter's ball awareness and
being able to play two positions is very universal in being dynamic for
today's NFL.
Upon winning the Heisman Saturday night, Hunter appeared bubbly and
excited to be in New York. Joined by his mother, fiancé, Coach Prime,
Shedeur, along with special guest Lil' Wayne who'd built a strong
relationship with Prime over the years. It was his moment, name called
and took the podium to deliver his acceptance speech. A young man
who drew a lot of ire and criticism in part of playing two positions versus
one.
In delivering his speech, he spoke with elegance, raw emotions which
he dedicated to his father in bringing home the Heisman. Overjoyed with
tears he shed with Prime, a father-like figure who turned a boy into a
man in a matter of three years. Embracing the spotlight and reminding
young athletes anything is possible. Regardless of your circumstances,
success is rewarded with hard work and sacrifice.
Smiling with another accolade to his young career, a multi-year deal
with adidas while wearing signature merchandise post awards. A top
pick in the 2025 NFL Draft who'll change life for any franchise. Travis
Hunter is truly one of one and the best is yet to come for this young
man.
Stai tuned.
