Travis Hunter, one of the most dynamic two-way players in college football, recently made waves at the NFL Combine, not for his performance on the field, but for his firm and unwavering choice when asked about the greatest NFL player of all time.
Hunter, a standout for the Colorado Buffaloes, has long drawn comparisons to legendary cornerbacks and receivers alike.
But when questioned about his personal “Mount Rushmore” of football, he didn’t need time to think. Without hesitation, he named his college head coach, Deion Sanders, four times.
Related:
“Coach Prime, Coach Prime, and Coach Prime,” Hunter said with a grin when asked to list his top picks. Even when reporters pressed him for additional names, he refused to waver.
Hunter‘s devotion to Sanders isn’t just about admiration, it’s rooted in a deep connection that began during his high school days.
Coming out as the No. 1 recruit in the country, Hunter shocked the football world by committing to Jackson State, an HBCU, over powerhouse programs like Alabama and Georgia.
Under Sanders‘ guidance, Hunter thrived as a rare two-way player, excelling as both a wide receiver and a cornerback. When Sanders took the head coaching job at Colorado, Hunter followed, proving their bond was more than just about football-it was about trust.
Now, as Hunter prepares for the NFL, he remains determined to continue playing on both sides of the ball, despite skepticism from analysts and scouts.
“They say, ‘nobody has ever done it the way I do it.’ I tell them, ‘I’m just different,'” Hunter stated confidently, reinforcing his belief in his unique skill set.
Sanders Stands Firm on Hunter’s Future
While NFL teams might hesitate to let Hunter play both offense and defense at the professional level, Sanders has made his stance clear.
If a team isn’t willing to give Hunter a shot in both roles, he believes they shouldn’t draft him at all.
“He’s gonna do that, or they shouldn’t draft him,” Sanders said. “I’m gonna make sure of it. Don’t draft him if you’re not going to give him an opportunity to play on both sides of the ball.”
Hunter‘s path to the NFL is unlike most prospects, and his confidence in himself, and in his coach, is unshakable.
While some may question whether he can sustain a dual role at the highest level, there’s no question about one thing-when it comes to the greatest player of all time, Hunter’s mind is made up.
