Travis Hunter of Colorado Wins 2024 Heisman Trophy
Travis Hunter, the standout player from the University of Colorado, took home the prestigious Heisman Trophy on December 14, 2024, making history as the first player in over 20 years to excel in both offensive and defensive roles.
Hunter, the heavy favorite to win, was among the four finalists for the coveted award. The other finalists were Dillon Gabriel, the quarterback from Oregon; Cam Ward, the quarterback from Miami; and Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty.
The Heisman Trophy is decided by 928 voters, including journalists, former Heisman winners, and a fan vote. Hunter’s impressive performance earned him 552 first-place votes and 2,231 total points, giving him 80.14% of the possible votes.
His victory, however, was hard-earned, as he won by just 214 points, the smallest margin in 15 years. Jeanty finished second, followed by Gabriel and Ward.
Hunter’s ability to play both ways is rare in Heisman history. Since Charles Woodson’s Heisman win in 1997, no player has had such an impact on both offense and defense. Hunter’s dual-role performance was no gimmick.
He was also a finalist for awards recognizing the top receiver and top defensive player of the year.
As a cornerback, Hunter stood out in the defensive backfield, recording 11 pass breakups—ranked eighth in the nation—along with four interceptions, 15 passes defended, and a game-winning fumble recovery for a touchdown.
Offensively, he was a force as well, catching 92 passes to lead the Big 12 Conference and ranking fifth in the country. His 1,152 receiving yards placed him sixth in the NCAA, and his 14 touchdowns were the second most in the nation. He was a constant deep threat, leading all of FBS with 21 receptions of 20 yards or more.
Hunter, who has announced his intention to enter the NFL Draft after Colorado’s season, arrived at the college football scene with high expectations. As the top recruit in the 2022 high school class, he turned down offers from major programs to attend Jackson State, a historically Black university, and play for legendary coach Deion Sanders.
When Sanders moved to Colorado in 2022, Hunter followed his coach, continuing to defy expectations and redefine what was possible for a player of his caliber.
Hunter becomes the second Heisman winner in Colorado’s history, joining Rashaan Salaam, who won the award in 1994.
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