The Colorado Buffaloes have experienced unprecedented national attention ever since Deion Sanders brought his unique energy and high expectations to Boulder in 2022. The team’s success, coupled with Sanders’s personality and media presence, has generated buzz, viewership, and headlines — pushing the Buffaloes into a new realm of recognition.
Now, with two of the most electric players in college football about to take the next step, the program is giving them a send-off they’ll never forget.
Before they take the stage at the 2025 NFL Draft, Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter are being recognized for what they’ve meant to the Buffaloes. The school is making a significant gesture (last performed in 2018) to celebrate two players who racked up stats while transforming the program’s identity.
Shedeur Sanders-Travis Hunter Era Put Colorado Back on the Map
When Sanders took the job at Colorado in 2022, he brought more than just a flashy resume — he brought his son, quarterback Shedeur Sanders, and top-tier recruit Hunter. Together, they helped shine a spotlight on a once-forgotten Power 5 team and turned Colorado games into must-watch TV.
Shedeur, a Jackson State transfer, quickly established himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the country. Despite a struggling offensive line, he threw for 7,364 yards, 64 touchdowns, and just 13 interceptions. Sanders’ 74% completion rate led the FBS. His ability to stay composed under constant pressure made him one of the most battle-tested QBs in the nation. His draft stock has only climbed since, with many projecting him as a top-10 pick 10 days from now.
Then there’s Hunter — arguably the most unique player in college football. He did what no one else does anymore: Dominated both sides of the ball. As a wide receiver, he hauled in 153 catches for 1,979 yards and 20 touchdowns. Hunter added seven interceptions and 16 pass breakups on defense, forcing quarterbacks to think again before throwing in his direction. He rarely came off the field — and still produced at a high level — which is a testament to his rare talent. Like Sanders, Hunter is projected to go in the first round.
Colorado is honoring that legacy in the most permanent way possible by retiring Sanders’ No. 2 and Hunter’s No. 12 at the April 19 spring game. The ceremony will happen before CU’s spring game starts, with Sanders and Hunter expected to attend.
No. 2 & No. 12 — Officially Untouchable. 🦬
Witness Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter have their jersey numbers retired during the Spring Game on April 19th.
🎟️: https://t.co/H4xwlMeXQF pic.twitter.com/xRPe9kazzj
— Colorado Buffaloes Football (@CUBuffsFootball) April 14, 2025
The school had only retired four other numbers: Quarterback/tailback Bobby Anderson (No. 11), 1994’s Heisman trophy-winning running back Rashaan Salaam (No. 19), quarterback/halfback Byron White (No. 24), and guard/linebacker Joe Romig (No. 67).
It’s a move usually reserved for legends, and that’s what Sanders and Hunter are in the eyes of Buffs fans.