Colorado stars Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders, both poised to be top picks in the upcoming NFL Draft, have chosen to play in the Alamo Bowl against No. 17 BYU despite the risks associated with potential injuries. To safeguard their futures, the dynamic duo has secured what is believed to be record-breaking insurance coverage—a move facilitated by Colorado head coach Deion Sanders and athletic director Rick George.
Protecting Their Futures
Hunter, the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner, and Sanders, a standout quarterback and son of Coach Prime, are both projected first-round picks in the NFL Draft.
Knowing the risks of playing in a high-stakes bowl game, Colorado worked diligently to secure substantial disability and injury insurance policies for the players, ensuring that their futures remain intact no matter the outcome.
“We happen to have two players who are likely to be the first two picks in the NFL Draft,” Coach Sanders said. “They’ve received, I think, the highest level of coverage ever in college football. It far exceeds what anyone has ever seen in this game.”
Comprehensive Coverage for the Team
While many college programs maintain basic insurance policies for their athletes, Colorado took the unprecedented step of increasing disability coverage for its entire roster participating in the Alamo Bowl. The move, spearheaded by Coach Sanders, included enhanced policies for Hunter and Shedeur due to their elite draft potential.
“It was his idea to ensure that our athletes were protected,” said Rick George, Colorado’s athletic director. “If there was an injury, they’d be well taken care of. This is how all bowl games should operate. We’re proud to have every player from our two-deep roster committed to this game.”
Beyond the Field: Hunter’s Public Challenges
Hunter’s season has been extraordinary, but his personal life has faced public scrutiny. After winning the Heisman Trophy, he deleted his Instagram account amid speculation and criticism involving his fiancée, Leanna Lenee. The couple faced backlash over perceived tension during public appearances, with Lenee’s subdued reactions during Hunter’s Heisman celebration fueling online chatter.
Colorado teammate Shedeur Sanders came to Hunter’s defense, posting on X: “All y’all athletes, entertainers, artists etc., if y’all genuinely trying to holla at Trav, y’all know how to get in touch with him or someone around. At this point, y’all just posting for the algorithm trying to look cool.”
A Season to Remember
Despite the noise, Hunter and Shedeur have dominated on the field. Hunter, a two-way standout, amassed 92 receptions for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns as a wide receiver while excelling as a cornerback with four interceptions and 11 pass breakups. Shedeur, meanwhile, completed 337 of 454 passes for 3,926 yards and 35 touchdowns, cementing his place as one of the top quarterbacks in college football.
Building a Legacy
Colorado’s leadership under Coach Sanders has set a new precedent for player care and preparation. By securing enhanced insurance for its athletes, the program has demonstrated a commitment to prioritizing player well-being even in high-stakes games.
“It’s more than what I ever got when I played,” said Colorado linebackers coach Andre’ Hart. “Back then, they handed us a helmet and told us to get out there and play. This level of protection shows how far the game has come and how leadership is truly taking care of the players.”
Running back Micah Welch echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the impact of having the entire roster participate in the game. “What I like about Coach Prime is that he’s always taking care of us. It means a lot to have everyone on the team up here, ready to go.”
RELATED: Resurfaced Videos of Travis Hunter’s Fiancée Ignite Heated Online Debate
Eyes on the Alamo Bowl
Colorado, ranked No. 20 with a 9-3 record, faces No. 17 BYU (10-2) in the Alamo Bowl on Saturday. Unlike many college teams grappling with player opt-outs and transfer portal departures, the Buffaloes will take the field with their full roster intact—a testament to the program’s culture and commitment.
As Hunter and Shedeur prepare for what could be their final game at the college level, they do so knowing their futures are secure, thanks to record-breaking insurance policies and the unwavering support of their team. This decision not only showcases their dedication to Colorado but also solidifies their legacies as trailblazers in college football.
