This year’s NFL Draft was filled with surprises. Amidst the headlines, one narrative stood out: Travis Hunter’s journey from Jackson State University, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), to becoming the number two overall pick.
While much attention was given to Shedeur Sanders’ unexpected slide to the fifth round, Hunter’s historic path deserves its spotlight.
In 2021 Hunter, the number two prospect overall in the 2022 class, made headlines by decommitting from Florida State University to join Jackson State University, led by NFL legend Deion Sanders.
This decision was unprecedented for a top recruit, signaling a shift in college football dynamics. Hunter explained his choice to HBCU Sports, stating, “I looked at it from the standpoint of if I go here, I open up more doors. My name is always going to be there; [people will say] ‘He went to an HBCU first.’”
Hunter challenged the status quo by choosing to play at an HBCU and brought national attention to programs that have long been overlooked despite producing NFL talent for decades such as pro football hall of famer and Mississippi Valley State University alumnus Jerry Rice.
His eventual selection in the NFL Draft validated his talent and proved that elite prospects can take their routes and still reach the highest level. It is a powerful statement about representation, opportunity and the growing viability of HBCUs as legitimate launching pads for pro careers.
Hunter showcased his versatility at Jackson State, playing cornerback and wide receiver. His performance helped the team achieve a SWAC championship and an undefeated regular season during his rookie year in 2022, according to Go JSU Tigers.
Hunter’s relationship with Coach Deion Sanders significantly influenced his development. Sanders believed in Hunter’s ability to excel on both sides of the ball and protected him from playing while injured, prioritizing his long-term potential.
“No, you ain’t ready and I care about you more than this game,” Sanders told him after the University of Colorado’s loss to Oregon State University. “You’re going to change football. Your future is brighter than mine ever will be and ever was. Relax and get healthy. I love you son.”
That decision wasn’t just about coaching. It was about trust. It was the moment that revealed the deeper bond they’ve built since their days at Jackson State.
That bond became the foundation for a shared journey that defied expectations, setting the tone for everything that followed on and off the field.
When Hunter announced his decision to transfer to Colorado, some critics questioned the move, suggesting that he was making a mistake by following Sanders to a struggling program.
In response to the skepticism and negative commentary, Hunter addressed the criticism directly, stating, “We have too many eyes on us. They hate how we came in, and then we didn’t live up to the standard last year… They see what we are doing this year… just jealousy that they have in their heart.”
This statement underscores the resilience and confidence that Hunter and Sanders shared, reinforcing their commitment to each other and their belief in the vision they were building at Colorado.
At Colorado, Hunter continued to impress, earning the Heisman Trophy as the first player to win the award after starting his college career at an HBCU.
Previous HBCU players like running back Walter Payton from Jackson State and quarterback Steve McNair from Alcorn State were recognized as Heisman finalists, however neither won the award, according to ESPN.
Hunter’s achievement highlights the growing recognition and impact of HBCU football and further underscores the significance of his decision to begin his journey at Jackson State.
His commitment to playing both offense and defense was unwavering. “I’m not going to let anybody tell me that I can’t do something that I’ve already done,” Hunter asserted.
Travis Hunter’s journey challenges traditional notions of the path to professional football. His success demonstrates that talent can thrive outside of Power Five conferences such as the Southeastern Conference (SEC) which produces the most active NFL players, and that HBCUs can produce top-tier NFL talent.
As Hunter himself stated, “That team right there, I feel like that’s the best time I had in college because we had a lot of fun. We enjoyed being at an HBCU, we enjoyed being inside of our skin.”
His story serves as an inspiration for future athletes considering HBCUs, proving that with dedication and the right support, reaching the pinnacle of professional sports is possible from any starting point.
Travis Hunter did not just take an unconventional route to the NFL; he helped pave a new one for those who dare to follow.
Copy edited by Aniyah Genama
