Travis Hunter, Colorado’s star wide receiver and defensive standout, had one rule all week: don’t touch the Heisman Trophy. For him, the only one worth holding was the one he would win — and he did just that.
Hunter, the first two-way player since 1997 to claim the prestigious honor, shared the unforgettable moment on “Good Morning America” despite running on just two hours of sleep after the celebrations.
“I didn't want to touch it the whole week,” Hunter said. “I was here. So, I let them know the only one I'm going to touch is gonna be the only one I bring home, and hopefully and thankful it was this one.” (00:50)
Hunter also reflected on how his football journey began, inspired by his father, Travis Hunter Sr. He watched his dad play in his little league games.
“He was a guy I looked up to when I wanted to play football,” he said. “When I was little going to his little league football that he used to play, and seeing him make touchdowns and go out there, and just be reckless and dominant on the field. I just had to show everybody what I can do.”
Growing up in West Palm Beach, Florida, wasn’t easy, but Hunter credits those challenges for shaping him.
“Growing up from West Point Beach Florida, it's tough,” he added. “But I’m thankful to be able to come out and be one of the ones on top.”
With his sights set on the upcoming NFL draft, where he’s projected as a top pick, Hunter is also planning for another big milestone — his wedding in 2025.
Travis Hunter is suiting up for Colorado’s bowl game
Travis Hunter, expected to be a top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, has made it clear that he’s suiting up for Colorado’s bowl game. He's going to end this thing the right way.
"I didn't give them (Deion Sanders & Company) a full season my first year, so I'm gonna go ahead and end this thing off right,” he said (H/t Bleacher Report).
“It's going to be our last game together, so I'm going to go out there and dominate, and show loyalty that I have for them."
Hunter’s decision aligns with Deion Sanders’ stance during the Valero Alamo Bowl press conference earlier this month. Coach Prime said:
“We don’t tap out,” Prime Time said. “We don’t sit out. It’s a blessing to play this wonderful game. Our kids are going to play. Matter of fact, we’re gonna pick up the Heisman Trophy this week, and he’s gonna play.”
Travis Hunter and the Buffaloesface BYU in the Alamo Bowl on Dec. 28. It’s a chance for the team to finish their season on a high before Hunter takes the next step toward the NFL.
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