Travis Hunter, the nation’s top-ranked recruit in the 2022 class, initially committed to Florida State before making a groundbreaking decision to join Jackson State under head coach Deion Sanders. This move sent shockwaves through the college football community, as it was unprecedented for a player of his caliber to choose an FCS program over established Power Five schools.
Hunter’s commitment to Jackson State was heavily influenced by his relationship with Sanders, whom he viewed as more than just a coach. In a recent interview, Hunter reflected on his decision, stating, “He’s more than just a coach, he’s a father.”
After a successful freshman season at Jackson State, where he earned SWAC Freshman of the Year honors, Hunter followed Sanders to Colorado when Sanders accepted the head coaching position there. At Colorado, Hunter continued to excel as a two-way player, contributing significantly on both offense and defense. His versatility and performance have made him a frontrunner for the 2024 Heisman Trophy.
Hunter’s journey has been marked by his commitment to playing both wide receiver and defensive back, a rarity in modern college football. He believes that joining Sanders at Jackson State and later Colorado provided him the unique opportunity to showcase his talents on both sides of the ball. As he prepares for the upcoming Alamo Bowl against BYU on December 28, Hunter has also announced his intention to enter the 2025 NFL Draft, aiming to continue his two-way play at the professional level.
Hunter’s unconventional path, from flipping his commitment to an FCS program to becoming a Heisman contender at Colorado, underscores his exceptional talent and the profound impact of his partnership with Deion Sanders. His story continues to captivate the college football world as he embarks on the next chapter of his career.
