Travis Hunter: A Heisman Journey Fueled by Family

Travis Hunter, the standout wide receiver and cornerback for the Colorado Buffaloes, etched his name in history by winning the 2024 Heisman Trophy. He became the second player in Colorado history to receive this honor, following Rashaan Salaam’s achievement in 1994.

Known for his rare versatility, Hunter became the only player to win both the Chuck Bednarik Award and the Fred Biletnikoff Award in the same season, solidifying his dominance on both sides of the ball. 

His journey from West Palm Beach, Florida, to college football stardom stems from the unwavering influence of his family, especially his father, Travis Hunter Sr.

Travis Sr., a former Boynton Beach High School athlete, excelled in football and track. He was part of a 4×100-meter relay team that set a school record of 41.63 seconds—a mark that still stands today. 

 His success extended into semi-pro football, where he was named Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2007. Though he faced personal and legal challenges, including a 90-day jail sentence in 2023, his presence in his son’s life remained strong. Hunter Jr. has often credited his father for instilling resilience, a sentiment that came to life in his emotional Heisman acceptance speech. 

“Dad, I love you. For all the stuff you went through, man… Now look at your oldest son. I did it for you, man,” Hunter Jr. said, fighting back tears as he held the Heisman Trophy in New York. 

The ceremony became a deeply personal moment for Hunter and his father, who watched from home in Boynton Beach, Florida. Travis Sr. chose not to attend the ceremony to save his presence for future milestones like his son’s wedding and the NFL draft. 

This decision reflects their strong bond, as Travis Sr. stated, “I want to be there when he gets married and when he gets drafted. I’m going to watch this from home.” This moment underscored the emotional depth of their relationship, with Travis Jr. bringing the trophy home as a symbol of their shared journey. 

The relationship between Travis Jr. and Travis Sr. appears to be deeply supportive, with Travis Sr. acting as a role model despite personal challenges. Travis Jr.’s athletic prowess, including a recorded speed of 21.4 MPH during a chase-down tackle in 2023, is often attributed to his father’s genetic influence and early encouragement. 

However, their bond was tested when Travis Sr. was incarcerated in September 2023, serving time at the Palm Beach County West Detention Center in Belle Glade before being released on December 5, three weeks early for good behavior. Though the specifics of his charges remain undisclosed, his absence during crucial games was felt.

“Yeah, it hurt,” Travis Sr. admitted about missing his son’s games, but he stayed engaged by watching from behind bars. Hunter Jr. acknowledged the distance and recognized how their relationship evolved through televised games. “From not seeing probably two games in high school to seeing me on TV every weekend and coming to see me,” he reflected, illustrating both men’s resilience throughout their journey.

One of the most significant figures in their story is Coach Deion Sanders. A father figure to many of his players, Sanders provided guidance and structure that Hunter Sr. deeply appreciated. “I’m happy that Coach Prime is his coach,” he said, acknowledging the role Sanders played in shaping his son both on and off the field.

Their relationship, marked by perseverance, setbacks, and unwavering support, continues to evolve. As of February 25, 2025, with Hunter Jr. preparing for the NFL Draft, his father is ready to be there for his biggest moments—both on the field and in life. Through triumphs and trials, their story remains a testament to the power of resilience, redemption, and love.