Travis Hunter lands on Sports Illustrated cover ahead of 2025 NFL Draft

The former Colorado Buffaloes wide receiver/cornerback and reigning Heisman Trophy winner is the face of Sports Illustrated’s May issue, just in time for the 2025 NFL Draft. But instead of rocking a helmet or a Buffs jersey, Hunter is seen holding two fish, talking on his other great love: fishing.

The feature, titled “Why Travis Hunter Is the Biggest Fish [and Fisherman] in the Pond”, will dive deep into who Hunter is beyond the field. Written by Pat Forde, Colorado-native and fellow Air Academy grad (Go Kadets!) it explores the story behind Travis, who played both sides of the ball better than anyone else in the country last season.

Hunter is the latest in a select group of Buffaloes to earn a Sports Illustrated cover. Wide receiver Michael Westbrook famously appeared in 1994 after the “Miracle at Michigan” Hail Mary catch against the Wolverines. Linebacker Phil Irwin was featured in 1970, and most recently, Coach Deion Sanders was named SI’s 2023 Sportsperson of the Year alongside his children and Colorado staff.

However, this isn't the first time on the SI cover for Hunter. In July 2022, he, along with Shedeur Sanders and Coach Prime graced it while at Jackson State.

In 2024, Hunter produced one of the most impressive two-way seasons in college football history: 96 receptions for 1,258 yards and 16 touchdowns as a receiver, plus 35 tackles, 11 pass breakups, four interceptions, and a game-winning forced fumble against Baylor. Last Saturday, his No. 12 jersey was retired during CU’s spring game, joining Shedeur, Rashaan Salaam, Joe Romig, Bobby Anderson, and Byron 'Wizzer' White.

With the NFL Draft set for tomorrow night, Hunter should be a top-five pick. His cover appearance gives him more than just star power—it marks his place among Colorado’s all-time legends.

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