Travis Hunter’s Hard-Earned EA 25 Cover Success Overshadowed by Manning’s Legacy as Arch Dominates Him Financially

How odds differ! Arch Manning opted out of the EA Sports College Football 25, shocking many fans. Travis Hunter, on the other hand, made waves as he became the first Buffs player to make it to the cover of the game, raking up the honor along with two other players – Quinn Ewers and Donovan Edwards. But financially, Hunter still couldn’t surpass Manning despite the video game’s success.

Last season, Travis Hunter was a two-way weapon in Colorado recording 721 receiving yards and 30 tackles. His success on the field not only made him the first defender to be featured on the cover of “NCAA College Football” after Brian Orakpo in 2009. Hunter was also honored with the Paul Hornung Award but his achievements still fall short in breaking Manning’s worth. 

Travis Hunter falls behind Arch Manning in NIL 100 ranking 

As per the latest On3 NIL 100 rankings, Travis Hunter, who was enjoying the third spot before, saw his place slip down to No. 4 with $2.7 million. With a recent $346K boost to his NIL value, Arch Manning surpasses Hunter to secure the third spot with $2.8 million. Taking the top lead is Colorado Buffs QB Shedeur Sanders with $4.6 million who was seconded by Olivia Dunne with $3.9 million.

The family name boosted Arch Manning’s popularity as he got ready for his football career. Last year, he signed his first major deal with trading card company Panini America and it looks like his rise is just beginning. Hunter, meanwhile, has previously expressed his thoughts on NIL and EA Sports CFB 25 videogame saying, “We were more focused on being on the cover. We don’t care about NIL. It’s a dream come true.” Anyhow, let’s take a look at Hunter’s NIL deals.

Travis Hunter’s NIL deals 

As one of the most impactful players in college football, it wasn’t hard for Travis Hunter to ink lucrative deals with various companies including 7-Eleven, EA Sports, Cheez-It, Leaf Trading Cards, and American Eagle Outfitters, among others. One of his standout deals is his partnership with Squishmallows, a pillow and stuffed animal brand. After signing the deal in November 2023, he became the first person to sign an NIL deal with the brand. 

With his NIL earnings, Hunter has fit the description of Coach Prime’s “kindest, nicest kid” by showering his loved ones with memorable gestures, including surprising his mother with a 5-bedroom house on her birthday. He’s currently undergoing speed training to keep himself in shape as the Colorado Buffaloes are set to meet North Dakota State for their regular season kickoff on August 29.