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Travis Hunter’s emotional draft night moment with his father

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Steven Corder | Last updated Apr 25, 2025 1:50 AM ET

As Travis Hunter heard his name called as the No. 2 overall pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2025 NFL Draft, a moment years in the making suddenly came full circle. But it wasn’t the lights, the cameras, or the NFL Commissioner that left him momentarily speechless — it was the voice of his father.

A Father’s Message That Hit Hard

After walking the stage, Hunter was shown a heartfelt video message from his father, Travis Hunter Sr., that instantly grounded the superstar in his roots: “I always knew you would be here because I never once seen you miss practice since you was four years old.”

Travis Hunter receives special message from his dad after being drafted by the @Jaguars.#NFLDraft @TravisHunterJr pic.twitter.com/cGapSgVX5m
— NFL (@NFL) April 25, 2025

The clip, filled with raw emotion and paternal pride, reminded fans that greatness isn’t born in the spotlight — it’s built in silence, during those countless early mornings and after-school drills.

Travis’ Heartfelt Response Reflects His Character

Fighting back emotion, Hunter responded with humility and perspective: “It means a lot to have my dad here… It’s always been my dream… since four, I never miss a practice. I’m always at practice, always on time.”

Colorado fans who watched Hunter grow under Deion Sanders saw not just an elite two-way athlete, but a tireless competitor. His words echo what Buffaloes Nation already knew: talent may get you noticed, but consistency gets you drafted.

From Boulder to Duval — and Still Hungry

Despite reaching the league as the highest-drafted Colorado player since Bo Matthews, Hunter made it clear he’s far from satisfied:

“We got more to do, got more to prove, and I know you’re gonna be at every game. So let’s keep going.” This mindset is what makes Hunter special. At Colorado, he never flinched — even playing 110+ snaps in multiple games. Now, he’s bringing that same relentless work ethic to Jacksonville.

Buffs fans, take pride — one of your own is headed to the league, not just as a top pick, but as a man built on purpose, family, and fire.

Next stop: Duval. And he’s not coming quietly.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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