Happy return for the 2024 Heisman winner and Colorado Buffs two-way phenom Travis Hunter after a long hiatus from social media. Already a household name in college football, Hunter’s endorsement deals are reaching legendary status. After his $3.1 million Adidas deal turned heads, his ‘Heisman-Winner’ limited-edition hoodie sold out faster than a Hunter touchdown. Now, Hunter has taken things to the next level, teaming up with the greatest soccer player ever for a collaboration that’s straight out of a dream.

On Instagram, Hunter dropped a clip of him showcasing his electrifying football skills while tagging the Inter Miami legend Lionel Messi himself and captioned it “#Stanley1913Parter.” The post unveiled their joint venture—a partnership for Stanley 1913’s exclusive pink tumbler collection featuring Messi’s name and Hunter’s undeniable star power. The campaign tagline?

“From Dreams to Legacy, One Step at a Time.” It’s a fitting motto for the young phenom who continues to defy limits. Fans are already buzzing about the collab, which brings together two icons from different sports but with one shared goal: greatness.

The CFB world is scrambling to keep top talent, ignited by Miami’s blockbuster move. They landed former Georgia QB1 Carson Beck, reportedly securing him a jaw-dropping $10 million in NIL deals, including a $4 million contract from the Hurricanes themselves. Though Hunter’s partnership with Messi feels like a statement of its own, even he got tempted for a second by Beck’s. On The Travis Hunter Show, he couldn’t help but laugh about the insane figures swirling around the NIL world. “How do you get $10 million? Where’s my $10 million?” he joked. “Let me go test this out,” he teased about going back to college.

But there’s an undeniable question lingering behind Hunter’s humor: What’s next? If Hunter, already valued at $5.7 million according to On3’s NIL valuation, entered the transfer portal today, programs would scramble to back up their Brinks trucks. Yet, it’s not just about the money. At this age, running after money over legacy doesn’t always look great.

Hunter’s position as a top-tier 2025 NFL Draft prospect means the smart play might be sticking to his path, cashing in on NIL deals like the Messi collaboration while keeping his eyes on the long-term prize: a first-round NFL payday that fast-tracks him to the all-important second contract.

Still, Hunter’s road hasn’t been without bumps. After taking a break from social media following a swirl of online drama involving his fiancée, Leanna Lenee, he’s reemerged with a sharp focus. The trolls may bark, but they continue to be his bag. And aligning with a global icon like Messi? That’s not just smart business—it’s a masterclass in expanding his personal brand. After all, he has a habit of collaborating with the greats of their kind.

Travis Hunter has a GOAT taste in music and partnerships

Collaboration with the greatest soccer player, check. Collaboration with one of the greatest rappers of all time is also checked. The Buffs’ electric two-way phenom made waves right after the 2024 Heisman ceremony. The rising star officially inked a deal with Young Money APAA Sports, the sports agency founded by none other than rap icon Lil Wayne. Even after shockingly revealing that he never listened to Carter’s music and that it was his girlfriend who put him on it, he got it secured. But what drove his decision?

It certainly wasn’t about chasing clout; it was about trust and genuine relationships. Speaking candidly on his podcast show, he shed light on why this partnership felt so natural. “I’ve been building my bond with a couple of people there for a little minute,” Hunter said. “Having Lil Wayne in my corner throughout college football and my journey, being who I am today, it was only right.” The rap legend’s unwavering support—whether through public shoutouts or private encouragement—was instrumental in sealing the deal.

From the gridiron to global campaigns, he’s proving that the Travis Hunter brand is just as unstoppable as his playmaking abilities.