Travis Hunter’s Historic Heisman Win Adds to Legacy of Black Excellence
In a year that saw outstanding performances across college football, Travis Hunter of the University of Colorado emerged as a standout, clinching the prestigious Heisman Trophy. This victory continues a notable trend of Black players dominating this accolade, marking the fifth consecutive year that a Black athlete has been honored with the award.
Hunter, celebrated for his versatility as a “two-way” player, made history by being the first to win awards for both the best defensive player and best wide receiver in the same season. His accolades didn’t stop there. He was also named the Walter Camp Player of the Year and the Associated Press National College Football Player of the Year.
Hunter’s recognition as a Heisman finalist came as no surprise, with betting odds favoring him as a clear frontrunner. His Heisman win not only solidifies his place in college football history but also marks him as the 39th Black player to achieve this honor.
Breaking Down the Numbers
Travis Hunter’s achievement follows Jayden Daniels’ win in 2023, who became the second LSU player in four years to win the Heisman and the fifth transfer player to do so. Daniels’ victory was the fourth consecutive win by a Black player, highlighting a significant presence of Black athletes in recent Heisman history.
Historically, the 1980s saw eight Black players win the Heisman, with running backs traditionally dominating the award with 22 wins. USC stands out with the most Black Heisman winners, totaling seven, with Caleb Williams breaking the running back streak in 2022.
Historic Black Heisman Winners
1961: Ernie Davis, Running Back – Syracuse University
Ernie Davis made history as the first African American Heisman Trophy winner in 1961. Despite his promising career, he was tragically diagnosed with leukemia and passed away before playing in the NFL.
1965: Mike Garrett, Running Back – USC
Garrett’s 1965 win as a tailback for USC led to a successful career, including a long-term role as USC’s athletic director.
1968: O.J. Simpson, Running Back – USC
Known as “The Juice,” Simpson’s celebrity status and NFL success followed his Heisman win in 1968.
1974 and 1975: Archie Griffin, Running Back – Ohio State
The only two-time Heisman winner, Griffin’s college success was unmatched, despite a less stellar NFL career.
1976: Tony Dorsett, Running Back – Pittsburgh
Dorsett’s college career culminated in a Heisman win and an NFL Hall of Fame induction.
1985: Bo Jackson, Running Back – Auburn
Renowned for his athletic prowess, Jackson’s career was cut short by injuries, though he excelled in both football and baseball.
1987: Tim Brown, Wide Receiver – Notre Dame
Brown became the first wide receiver to win the Heisman, later enjoying a Hall of Fame NFL career.
1989: Andre Ware, Quarterback – Houston
Ware’s historic Heisman win as the first Black quarterback marked a significant milestone in college football.
1991: Desmond Howard, Wide Receiver – Michigan
Howard’s memorable Heisman pose and subsequent NFL career left a lasting legacy.
1997: Charles Woodson, Defensive Back – Michigan
The only defensive player to win the Heisman, Woodson’s impact was felt both in college and in the NFL.
2005: Reggie Bush, Running Back – USC
Despite controversy, Bush’s Heisman was reinstated, allowing him to rejoin the ranks of honored athletes.
Recent Notable Winners
2021: Bryce Young, Quarterback – University of Alabama
Young’s remarkable performance in the final games of the season secured his Heisman win.
2022: Caleb Williams, Quarterback – USC
Williams’ record-setting play for USC drew comparisons to NFL stars and secured his place in history.
2023: Jayden Daniels, Quarterback – LSU
Daniels’ transfer to LSU paid off with an impressive Heisman-winning season.
2024: Travis Hunter, Safety and Wide Receiver – Colorado
With his dual-threat capabilities, Hunter’s Heisman win reaffirms the growing trend of exceptional Black athletes in college football.
SEE ALSO:
Jackson State Paid $800K To End Decades-Long HBCU Football Tradition, Documents Show
’60 Minutes’ Accuses Deion Sanders Of ‘Abandoning The Mission At Jackson State’
