Colorado Star Reflects on His Journey from Florida State to Buffs

College football star Travis Hunter, known for his extraordinary versatility as a two-way player, recently opened up about his unconventional journey during an interview on The Pivot Podcast. Reflecting on his decision to flip from Florida State to Jackson State in 2021, Hunter highlighted the life-changing impact of his choice to follow Deion Sanders, now the head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes.

On that memorable Signing Day, Hunter shocked the college football world by decommitting from Florida State, the program that had secured his pledge as the highest-ranked recruit in its history. Instead, he chose to join Sanders at Jackson State, making waves as the first 5-star recruit to commit to an HBCU. Now a Heisman Trophy contender and a key player for Colorado, Hunter is widely regarded as one of college football’s brightest talents.

Hunter explained how Coach Sanders, affectionately known as “Coach Prime,” convinced him to take the unconventional path. “Coach Prime let me know he wanted me. He told me it was going to have a big impact, but he trusted I could handle it,” Hunter shared. This trust and Sanders’ vision for his development solidified Hunter’s decision to play under one of the greatest defensive backs in football history.

Since joining Colorado, Hunter has become a household name, excelling in both wide receiver and defensive back roles. In just two seasons with the Buffaloes, he has recorded 1,878 offensive yards, 20 touchdowns, 43 tackles, and seven interceptions. His ability to play on both sides of the ball, a rarity in modern college football, is a testament to his immense talent and determination. “No other school would’ve let me do that,” Hunter noted, recalling his initial conversations with Sanders. “I had to dominate on one side of the ball to earn the right to play on the other.”

As he prepares for his final collegiate game in the Alamo Bowl against BYU, Hunter reflected on how different his life might have been had he stayed with Florida State. “I don’t know where I’d be if I went there. I try not to think about it too much because it gets emotional. This decision changed my life forever,” he admitted.

Looking ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, Hunter’s name is one to watch. With his exceptional skills, work ethic, and unique journey, he is poised to leave an indelible mark on professional football, continuing to shine on Sundays as he has throughout his college career.