Colorado Buffaloes‘ two-way star Travis Hunter is now a Heisman finalist and presumed first-round NFL Draft pick. It’s the final act in one of the best college careers in recent memory, but Hunter is no stranger to headlines even going back to his recruitment. His journey has captivated fans and analysts alike, showcasing not just his talent but also his determination and vision for the future.
From High School to Jackson State
Coming out of high school, Travis Hunter was a five-star recruit in the Class of 2022, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. He was the second-ranked recruit overall in that recruiting cycle, making his decision to choose Jackson State at the FCS level almost unheard of at the time. This bold move turned heads and set the stage for a remarkable college career.
As a highly regarded recruit, Travis Hunter made the move to flip his commitment from Florida State to Jackson State coming out of high school. Now, while making an appearance on The Pivot Podcast, Hunter broke down that decision and what Deion Sanders meant to him when he was making it. “We had that conversation with whether I was gonna go or stay with Florida State,” Travis Hunter said. “He let me know he wanted me. It’s like, going to be a big impact but you’re a humble kid and we know you can take on whatever comes your way. So, it’s your choice to make.”
The Impact of Deion Sanders
Hunter’s relationship with his coach has been a significant factor in his success. “I think I asked him this question two months ago. I said, ‘What would we be if I didn’t decide to go there?’ And I still don’t know the answer because when I first talked to him it was like I don’t care who he is, I don’t want to go there,” Hunter recalled. “But, as I talked to him more, it was like this might be the place. He’s more than just a coach, he’s a father.”
Reflecting on his time with Sanders, Hunter said, “I texted him that one game a couple of games ago, like, ‘Coach, you changed my life forever.’ Just being able to see where I’m at now, I don’t know where I would have been at if I went to Florida State.” This emotional connection has fueled Hunter’s performance on the field and solidified his legacy in college football.
Making History at Colorado
After one season at Jackson State, Hunter transferred to Colorado to follow Sanders. There, he became a household name for college football fans. Part of what has made Travis Hunter’s college career so remarkable has come down to his ability to compete as a two-way player. That’s not an opportunity he would have had at Florida State or anywhere else for that matter.
“I don’t think any other school in the world was gonna let me do that,” Hunter explained. “It took him a minute to let me play both sides of the ball. Like he said, I had to dominate on one side of the ball first to earn my stripes to play on the other side.” Hunter’s eagerness to showcase his skills is evident as he added, “I don’t like sitting on the sideline. I’m eager to go out there and get the ball in my hands and show you what I can do.”
Looking Ahead to the Future
Now, Travis Hunter has one college game left with Deion Sanders. The Colorado Buffaloes will take on the BYU Cougars in the Alamo Bowl before Hunter will presumably move onto the NFL. This final game is not just another matchup; it’s a culmination of years of hard work, sacrifices, and dreams coming to fruition.
“I don’t know where I would be. I’ve tried to figure that out,” Hunter said, reflecting on his journey. “I try not to think too much on it because we’ve got one more game. It gets you kind of emotional because it changed my life forever.” With the spotlight shining brightly on him, Hunter is poised to leave a lasting impact on college football and take the next step in his career.
A Legacy in the Making
Travis Hunter’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and the pursuit of greatness. His decision to play at Jackson State, his relationship with Deion Sanders, and his ability to excel as a two-way player have all contributed to a remarkable college career. As he prepares for the Alamo Bowl and the next chapter in the NFL, one can’t help but wonder: what will be next for this extraordinary athlete?
With a Heisman finalist title and the potential to be a first-round draft pick, Travis Hunter is not just a player to watch; he’s a player who has already made history. His journey is a testament to what can be achieved with hard work, passion, and the right support system. The world of college football will be watching closely as he takes the field one last time, ready to leave it all on the line.
