Travis Hunter Wins 2024 Heisman Trophy in Closest Race Since 2009
Travis Hunter made history by winning the 2024 Heisman Trophy, capping off a remarkable season for the Colorado star. Hunter, who excelled as both a defensive back and wide receiver, received 552 of the 901 first-place votes, narrowly surpassing Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty, who earned 309 votes. Oregon QB Dillon Gabriel and Miami QB Cam Ward finished further behind. Hunter’s total points came to 2,231, edging out Jeanty by just 214 points (2,017), making this the closest Heisman race since 2009, when Mark Ingram narrowly defeated Toby Gerhart.
Hunter’s 2024 season was nothing short of extraordinary. Offensively, he totaled 92 catches for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns, along with a rushing touchdown. Defensively, he registered four interceptions, 11 passes defensed, and over 30 tackles, despite missing parts of two games due to a shoulder injury.
In his Heisman acceptance speech, Hunter thanked God, his family, teammates, coaches, teachers, and even Colorado supporter Lil Wayne.
Hunter’s win is significant as he becomes the first non-quarterback to claim the Heisman since Alabama’s DeVonta Smith in 2020, and only the fifth non-QB to win the prestigious award this century. The others include Smith (2020), Alabama RB Derrick Henry (2015), Mark Ingram (2009), and USC RB Reggie Bush (2005).
