Travis Hunter’s remarkable journey through the 2024 college football season has left fans and analysts alike in awe. Logging an astonishing 1,443 snaps for Colorado, Hunter has not only lived up to the hype but has redefined what it means to be a two-way player in college football. As the No. 1 high-school recruit in the nation in 2022, Hunter’s potential was clear, but he has exceeded even the highest expectations.
Travis Hunter: A Two-Way Phenomenon
Hunter’s ability to excel on both sides of the ball is a rarity in modern football. While most players must choose between offense and defense, Hunter has embraced the challenge, playing receiver and defensive back at an elite level. After a standout year at Jackson State in 2022, he continued to shine under coach Deion Sanders at Colorado. In 2024, his performance earned him All-American honors and a prestigious Heisman Trophy, a testament to his extraordinary talent.
“I want to be on the field as much as possible; I love to be on the field, I love playing football,” Hunter expressed in a recent interview. His passion for the game is palpable, and it has driven him to achieve greatness. Even though he doesn’t need to play in the upcoming Valero Alamo Bowl against BYU to secure a first-round NFL Draft pick, Hunter’s love for the game compels him to give his all.
Statistical Dominance
Hunter’s statistics speak volumes about his impact on the field. He won the Biletnikoff Award, recognizing him as the nation’s top receiver, with impressive numbers: 92 catches for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns. His season started with a bang against North Dakota State, where he recorded seven catches for 132 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
“I just remember thinking if Shedeur (Sanders) trusts me enough to throw the ball my way, I better catch it,” Hunter recalled about that game. His chemistry with quarterback Shedeur Sanders has been electric, making them one of the most formidable QB-WR duos in college football. Together, they could both be top-five picks in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Defensive Prowess
But Hunter’s talents don’t stop at receiver. On defense, he has been equally impressive, racking up 31 tackles, four interceptions, and 11 pass breakups. His growth as a cornerback is largely attributed to the guidance of Coach Sanders, a Pro Football Hall of Fame cornerback himself. “I’m always trying to continue to develop in all areas, watch more film, and also take care of my body as much as I can,” Hunter stated.
This dual-threat capability has been instrumental in Colorado’s turnaround season, where they finished with a 9-3 record, a five-win improvement from the previous year. Hunter’s ability to read the game from both perspectives gives him a unique edge. “I always know what a receiver is going to do in a given situation when I’m on defense, and I know how they’ll try to defend me when I’m on offense,” he explained.
Iconic Moments of 2024
Throughout the season, Hunter delivered several iconic plays that will be remembered for years to come. One standout moment occurred on September 21, 2024, during an overtime thriller against Baylor. With Colorado leading 38-31, Hunter made a game-winning play, forcing a fumble at the goal line that sealed the victory for the Buffaloes. “I always go back to the Baylor game,” he recalled, highlighting the significance of that defensive stand.
A week later, Hunter made headlines again with a spectacular interception against UCF, where he struck a picture-perfect Heisman pose, paying homage to Desmond Howard. “I felt like if I had a big play, a touchdown or interception, that I would do it,” he said, demonstrating his flair for the dramatic.
Living Up to the Legacy
The comparisons to former Michigan star Charles Woodson are inevitable. Woodson, who won the Sporting News Player of the Year in 1997, set a high bar for two-way players. Hunter acknowledges Woodson’s greatness, stating, “I’m too young to have watched him play, but I’ve seen a lot of his highlights, and he’s one of the best to ever do it.”
As Hunter prepares for the next chapter in his career, there is no doubt that he will be a top-five pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. The question remains: will he be drafted as a receiver, a defensive back, or both? Coach Sanders believes in Hunter’s versatility, emphasizing that a team would be wise to utilize his skills on both sides of the ball.
“First of all, he’s going to go to a team with a need because he’s really good – he’s going to be drafted with a top-five pick if they have any common sense,” Sanders said. “Travis is great on both sides of the ball. If you eliminate him on one side of the ball, you’re not only hurting your team – he needs that challenge.”
Travis Hunter’s 2024 season has been nothing short of extraordinary. His passion, skill, and determination have made him a standout player in college football history. As fans eagerly await his next move, one thing is clear: Hunter is a force to be reckoned with, and his legacy is just beginning.
