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Colorado’s Travis Hunter picked up an impressive accolade when The Associated Press revealed he had earned College Football Player of the Year honors Thursday.
Hunter, a two-way player for the Buffaloes and a Heisman Trophy finalist, will attempt to put a bow on an unforgettable season when Colorado takes on BYU in the Alamo Bowl at the end of the month.
Hunter wrote to The Associated Press about how much the award means. Ultimately, he wants his teammates to help each other win football games.
“Couldn’t do what I do without my team,” Hunter said. “So I view being up for these awards as team awards.”
Hunter guided the Buffaloes to a nine-win regular season, starting as a wide receiver and cornerback as a junior. If he declares for the NFL Draft next spring, most mock drafts see him winding up as a top-five pick alongside his teammate, quarterback Shedeur Sanders or the No. 1 overall pick.
Despite coming up one win short of competing in the Big 12 title game (without outside help), Hunter put together a video-game-like stat line that saw him catch 15 touchdowns and secure 32 tackles while forcing a fumble.
Hunter is open to playing for any NFL team that picks him next year but prefers the Denver Broncos or his favorite team, the San Francisco 49ers.
“I want to make an impact on the [Colorado] community,” Hunter said on the “Kickin’ It With Dee” podcast. “They took us in with open arms. My neighbors help me out a lot. Sometimes, I go to away games, and I need somebody to watch my dog. I feel comfortable. I can go to my neighbors.”
Hunter wants to continue to play both ways in the NFL and said he has a chance to carry on the legacy of those who have done the same.
For now, his journey is just beginning.