Browns QB Shedeur Sanders receives key advice from former teammate Travis Hunter ahead of 2025 NFL season

Shedeur Sanders was one of the biggest storylines in the latest NFL Draft, which ultimately saw him land with the Cleveland Browns. If there’s someone who knows him well, it’s his former Colorado Buffaloes teammate Travis Hunter, who understands exactly what the quarterback needs to do to become a key player in what lies ahead.

Sanders and Hunter formed one of the most dynamic duos in college football last season, a partnership that helped propel both players toward the next big step in their careers. Now a member of the Jacksonville Jaguars, Hunter was one of Sanders’ top targets throughout their final campaign together in Boulder.

While a rookie season in the NFL can be challenging in terms of adjustment, the former Heisman Trophy winner made it clear in comments to the media that Shedeur has what it takes to come out on top in his first year with the Browns.

“Shedeur, he’s got to go in there and work, earn his job just like me,” Hunter stated, via Fox. “But he’s also got to go in there and be the head of the offense, so he’s got to go in there and be a leader.”

Former Colorado Buffaloes players Shedeur Sanders (right) and Travis Hunter meet on the field during a ceremony where both players hersey numbers were retired before the Black and Gold Spring Game at Folsom Field on April 19, 2025 in Boulder, Colorado.

All eyes on Hunter ahead of NFL debut

Having been one of the standout stars of last season in college football, it’s no surprise that much of the spotlight now falls on what the new Jaguars player can bring to Liam Coen’s team.

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Continuing his comments to the media, Travis Hunter addressed the situation directly, emphasizing that both he and Sanders need to step up as leaders from day one in order to meet the expectations that have been placed on them.

“We definitely got to be leaders, especially me,” Hunter said. “I was the number two overall pick, so I gotta come in and be a leader.“

From Boulder to the NFL

Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter were key players in the Colorado Buffaloes’ standout season, which ended with a playoff berth under the guidance of Deion Sanders. Their exceptional chemistry on offense not only made them a dominant force in the NCAA but also launched them into the NFL, where they are expected to continue their rise as stars.

Their transition to the professional league marks a new chapter, with both Sanders and Hunter arriving backed by a season full of achievements. The duo, forged in Boulder, now has the chance to take their connection to new heights in the league, where they’re viewed as one of the most promising offensive tandems in the coming years.