Let’s talk about the man of the hour or perhaps the entire season—Travis Hunter. The NFL world is buzzing like a hive about where this rising star might land. Will it be the Denver Broncos, the New England Patriots, or some surprise team swooping in the last minute? No doubt, the Patriots seem like a solid bet for snagging him with the first overall pick in the 2025 draft. Yeah, he’ll have to trade in his iconic #12 Buffs jersey. But can he be the Patriots’ next legendary #12, like Tom Brady? Honestly, it’s not about the number—it’s about the impact he makes on and off the field.

Hunter’s collegiate chapter wraps up with a defeat at the Alamo Bowl, and the NFL draft looms large. With a top-tier sports agency in his corner and a trajectory mirroring his former Jackson State teammate, the road to NFL glory isn’t just a dream—it’s practically destiny.

Travis Hunter is joining Young Money APAA Sports, a label owned by artist Lil Wayne. The agency will manage his playing contracts and on-field representation. If you are unaware, Young Money outbid a number of rival agencies, including CAA, WME, Athletes First, and Klutch Sports Group, to sign Hunter. And according to FOS, Young Money, which includes on-field representation sections in the NFL, NBA, soccer, and collegiate sports, will have Hunter as one of its most well-known clients. Yes, just ‘one’ of many!

Well, Young Money also represents Hunter’s former Jackson State teammate, Isaiah Bolden, who currently plays for the Patriots. This could be huge, especially since the Patriots drafted QB Drake Maye last year and are likely looking for a top-tier receiver and corner—positions Hunter excels at. Well, for now, this partnership with Lil Wayne is more than just a good start—it’s a major step towards a successful NFL career.

Remember when Lil Wayne showed up at Hunter’s Heisman Trophy ceremony? That wasn’t just a random appearance. It seems like Wayne saw something special in Hunter then. Now, Hunter’s on-field representation is in the hands of Young Money, while SMAC Entertainment continues to handle his off-field deals, including his partnership with Adidas.  This is a major move for Hunter, and it’s exciting to see where his career goes from here.

Travis Hunter’s Lil Wayne connection

When Travis Hunter won the Heisman Trophy, he showed his gratitude to Lil Wayne. During his winning speech, the Colorado star acknowledged the rapper, stating that his fiancée introduced him to the artist’s songs. Hunter said that before his fiancée introduced him to the rapper’s music, he wasn’t all that familiar with it, but after hearing it, he became enamored.

“You don’t know how you came into our life,” Hunter said. Then, explaining the journey, Hunter continued, “My fiancée love you. I didn’t know none of your songs until she let me know. Because she listen to music. She let me know. She told me, ‘If you don’t listen to music, listen to Wayne.’ From that day on, that’s all I listened to. Those are the songs I listen to. When I get in that TRX and I blast that music, I’m listening to Wayne. ‘6 foot, 7 foot, 8 foot hot.’ That’s my song.”

The respect is mutual. The ‘Lollipop’ star, also believes in Hunter’s incredible versatility. Wayne thinks Hunter can excel at any position: “It could be receiver [or any other position]. If the coach decides to put him as center, he is gonna be the best center we’ve ever seen.” Wayne even compared Hunter to stars like CeeDee Lamb and Alvin Kamara.

Travis Hunter wasn’t just a Heisman Trophy winner; he was a dominant force. He snagged the Biletnikoff Award for his insane receiving stats: 96 catches, 1,258 yards, and 15 touchdowns. On top of that, he took home the Bednarik Award as the nation’s top defender with 36 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 10 pass breakups. 1 This two-way superstar is about to make some noise in the NFL and let’s see what he can do!