As the college football world buzzes with speculation, one name that consistently dominates the conversation is Travis Hunter. The two-way standout at Colorado has captivated fans with his exceptional talent as both a wide receiver and cornerback, making him one of the most electrifying players in the nation. Hunter’s ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball has turned him into a future NFL star, with many experts projecting him as a potential top-five pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Whether he’s hauling in passes for touchdowns or locking down opposing receivers, Hunter’s football future appears incredibly bright—and he could opt for the NFL as soon as this season ends.
Hunter’s performance so far has placed him in early Heisman Trophy conversations, thanks to his impressive stats. On offense, he has racked up 46 catches for 561 yards and six touchdowns. On defense, he’s been equally effective, tallying 15 tackles, two interceptions, a forced fumble, and three pass deflections.
The junior has proven to be far more than just a standout—he’s a legitimate game-changer, and it’s no wonder NFL scouts are already salivating at the prospect of drafting him. But with his college career likely winding down, one question remains: what would it take to keep him at Colorado for another season?
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The answer could come down to money, specifically through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, which have transformed the landscape of college athletics.
In a recent video with Well Off Media, Hunter was asked if a $40 million NIL deal would be enough to convince him to stay at Colorado. Hunter, with a smile and a chuckle, didn’t outright dismiss the possibility, acknowledging that such a staggering figure would certainly give him something to consider.
Although the idea of a $40 million deal is hypothetical, it highlights how valuable Hunter has become in the NIL era and just how much influence financial incentives can have on a player’s decision to stay in college versus turning pro.
While the prospect of Hunter earning a massive NIL deal may seem far-fetched, it underscores the level of demand for his talents. In the past, college players didn’t have the financial freedom to weigh offers like these, but NIL has changed everything, creating opportunities for elite athletes like Hunter to profit from their abilities before ever stepping foot in the NFL. Whether or not a deal of this magnitude could actually keep him in Boulder remains to be seen, but it’s clear that his value transcends the field.
As fans and analysts debate Hunter’s future, another question looms large: should he focus on being a wide receiver or a cornerback at the professional level? Both positions showcase his unique skills, and while Hunter has yet to commit to one over the other, it’s a decision that could define his NFL career.
For now, Hunter has left the door open, continuing to excel at both positions while leaving the final decision for later. It’s this versatility that makes him such an intriguing prospect, and no matter which path he chooses, he’s likely to thrive at the next level.
Despite the speculation surrounding his future, it’s unlikely Hunter will remain at Colorado beyond this season. The NFL, with its immense financial rewards and global platform, is undoubtedly calling his name.
Yet, for fans of Colorado football, there’s still time to savor Hunter’s brilliance on the field. His dynamic performances this season have helped elevate the program’s profile and captivated college football fans nationwide.
While $40 million may sound like a humorous number in casual conversation, it underscores the astronomical value that Hunter represents. Ultimately, it may not be enough to keep him in Boulder, but it highlights how NIL deals are reshaping the decisions of top athletes like Hunter.
His future in the NFL seems almost inevitable, but for now, college football fans can enjoy the ride—and perhaps dream, however briefly, of one more year with Travis Hunter in a Colorado uniform.
