Deion Sanders, widely known as Coach Prime, celebrated Travis Hunter’s 22nd birthday with a heartfelt tribute that underscored their deep connection. Sanders called Hunter his favorite player ever coached, reflecting a bond beyond the typical coach-player dynamic. Hunter, the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner and the nation’s top recruit, made headlines by choosing Jackson State, an HBCU, over major programs. Their relationship started there and strengthened when Hunter followed Sanders to Colorado.
Deion Sanders Shares Tribute to Travis Hunter On His Birthday With A Strong Message
On Travis Hunter’s 22nd birthday, Deion Sanders took to X to express his admiration for the Jacksonville Jaguars star, making it clear Hunter is more than just a former player. Alongside a photo of Hunter surrounded by his personal trophies, Sanders wrote,
“Happy Birthday, Son. Love ya, man. Be Greater & don’t negotiate your Peace.”
@TravisHunterJr Happy Birthday Son. Love ya man. Be Greater & don’t negotiate your Peace. pic.twitter.com/lfVY02kcYS
— COACH PRIME (@DeionSanders) May 18, 2025
This heartfelt message came shortly after Sanders made a candid remark about his biological sons’ standing in the family, highlighting Hunter’s special place.
Hunter, the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner, has been central to Sanders’ coaching journey. Last season, Hunter produced a historic stat line, hauling in 92 receptions for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns on offense, while contributing 32 tackles, 11 pass breakups, and 4 interceptions on defense.
His rare two-way talent earned him the Heisman and solidified his status as a favorite of Coach Prime. As the nation’s top recruit back then, Hunter made a groundbreaking choice by turning down powerhouse programs to join Jackson State, an HBCU. His unique ability to excel on both offense and defense challenges modern football norms, proving players can redefine roles with the right support and opportunity.
Travis Hunter’s Versatility and Arm Strength Spark Excitement in Jaguars Camp
Jacksonville Jaguars’ No. 2 overall pick Travis Hunter is showing untapped potential beyond his roles as cornerback and wide receiver. At the NFLPA Rookie Premiere, Hunter impressed by effortlessly throwing multiple perfect spirals to a target roughly 40 yards away, suggesting he could add a new dimension to Jacksonville’s offense.
Though not a contender for starting quarterback, Hunter’s arm strength offers Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski the option for trick plays. Last season at Colorado, under Deion Sanders and Pat Shurmur, Hunter nearly threw a touchdown pass against Utah before opting for a rushing score after a quarterback slip.
Hunter made a strong impression at rookie minicamp, focusing mainly on receiver duties but expected to increase cornerback reps in upcoming OTAs. Jaguars executive VP Tony Boselli praised Hunter’s athleticism and leadership, saying,
“You watch how he approached phase two workouts and rookie minicamp, this is a guy that’s hungry to be the best.”
KEEP READING: Coach Prime’s Spring Football Plan Could Save the Offseason: Why Are Coaches Pushing Back?
Hunter will debut in the NFL on Sept. 7 vs. Carolina and return to Colorado in December for the Broncos game.
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