adidas has made a significant move in the world of college sports by adding Travis Hunter, Colorado’s two-way star and Heisman Trophy favorite, to its roster of elite athletes. This partnership comes at a pivotal moment in Hunter’s career as he stands on the brink of potentially making college football history.
Travis Hunter, a standout wide receiver and defensive back for the Colorado Buffaloes, has already garnered impressive accolades this season. He was named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and won the Lott IMPACT Trophy. His exceptional play has also put him in contention for other prestigious awards, including the Maxwell Award, Chuck Bednarik Award and Biletnikoff Award.
The timing of this deal is particularly noteworthy as it comes just days before the Heisman Trophy ceremony on December 14, where Hunter is considered the frontrunner. This partnership with Adidas adds to Hunter’s already impressive NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) portfolio, which includes collaborations with major brands such as Sony Pictures, Stanley 1913, EA Sports, and United Airlines, among others.
Hunter expressed his excitement about joining the adidas family, saying, “Working with adidas is a special opportunity for me and something that I’m really excited about as I look ahead to what’s next. The partners they currently have are top tier with some of the best young guys like me. I’m pumped to join the three stripes as we continue pushing the boundaries of the sport we all love“.
The partnership between adidas and Travis Hunter is a strategic move for both parties. For adidas, it represents an investment in the next generation of athletes and aligns with its commitment to supporting dynamic, multi-faceted athletes. Aaron Seabron, General Manager of the US Sports & Creation Center Portland at adidas, emphasized the company’s excitement about the collaboration, saying, “Travis is undeniably one of the most dynamic athletes in any sport, and we’re excited to collaborate with him and celebrate all that he accomplishes as he transitions into the next phase of what promises to be a long and successful career“.
Hunter’s impact on the field has been remarkable. During the 2024 regular season, he played an unprecedented 672 offensive snaps and 688 defensive snaps, making him the only FBS player with more than 150 snaps on both sides of the ball. His offensive prowess is evidenced by his leading position in receiving touchdowns among Power 4 players, while his defensive skills are showcased by his four interceptions and 11 pass breakups.
Travis Hunter’s versatility and excellence have not only contributed to his team’s success, but have also set him apart as a unique talent in college football. His performances have helped lead Colorado to its most successful season since 2016, further cementing his status as a game-changing player.
As part of the launch of the partnership, adidas released a collection of limited-edition apparel featuring Hunter on its website. Looking ahead, Hunter is expected to wear adidas on the field in the NFL and will be featured in future brand marketing campaigns. However, fans will still see him in Nike cleats for the upcoming Alamo Bowl on December 28, where Colorado will take on BYU.
Travis Hunter joins an impressive list of adidas athletes, including fellow Heisman Trophy finalist Cam Ward of Miami, NFL stars Patrick Mahomes, Amon-Ra St. Brown and Micah Parsons, among others. This signing further solidifies adidas’ commitment to partnering with elite talent across multiple sports.