The emergence of the NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) era has fundamentally altered the way college football stars approach their future, especially in relation to the NFL. The University of Colorado Buffaloes (CU Buffs) have recently captured the spotlight, with Travis Hunter’s Heisman Trophy win and Shedeur Sanders' record-breaking season putting the program back on the map. Both players have been crucial in revitalizing a dormant CU football program, turning it into a nationwide sensation and must-watch TV for two full seasons. But with the spotlight now on them, the big question arises: Is it time for Hunter and Sanders to move on?
The Buffs will take on BYU in the upcoming Alamo Bowl, and both Hunter and Sanders are expected to play in this high-profile game. But here's the catch — should they? It’s a tough question that sparks a lot of debate, and depending on whom you ask, the answer could vary significantly.
From one perspective, some might say it’s a no-brainer — they should sit out and prepare for the NFL. After all, the financial stakes are sky-high. Take Caleb Williams, for example. The USC quarterback made a whopping $39.5 million in guaranteed earnings after being selected as the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Likewise, Marvin Harrison Jr., a wide receiver out of Ohio State, secured $35.4 million in guaranteed money as the fourth overall pick. The numbers are staggering. In this modern era of NIL deals, athletes like Sanders and Hunter have already earned life-changing amounts, making the financial risks of playing in a bowl game even more pronounced. It’s easy to understand why some would argue that the two star players have already secured their futures, and thus don’t need to take unnecessary risks on the field.
Let’s take a closer look at the numbers. According to estimates from On3, Shedeur Sanders earned $6.1 million in NIL money this season, while Travis Hunter raked in $5.2 million. That’s real money — not just pocket change. Their earnings have already placed them in a financial position that many could only dream of, but that’s not where the story ends. Looking ahead to the NFL Draft, if Sanders goes first overall, he could land a guaranteed contract worth a staggering $42 million, with $27.3 million of that being guaranteed. If Hunter goes within the top five picks, his guaranteed earnings would be no less than $22.4 million. With numbers like these, you can understand the concerns of NFL scouts and others who question why these players would risk injury or jeopardize their draft stock for a game that, in the grand scheme of things, doesn’t carry the same weight as their professional futures.
However, there’s another side to this story. While the financial considerations are hard to ignore, there’s something uniquely compelling about the way Coach Deion Sanders, “Coach Prime,” leads his team. He has built a culture of loyalty, commitment, and finishing what you start. For Coach Prime, it’s not just about the money — it’s about principles. He’s a man who doesn’t follow conventional wisdom; he carves his own path. And when it comes to his players, Coach Prime expects them to do the same.
In this case, Coach Prime has made it clear that he wants Sanders and Hunter to play in the Alamo Bowl. For him, it’s about finishing what they began — not just for themselves, but for the team, the fans, and the university. It’s about proving that they can complete their journey and help the Buffs finish the season strong. Coach Prime has always emphasized the importance of honor, loyalty, and family, and this bowl game is an opportunity for his stars to show their dedication to those values. He’s leading by example, teaching the players not just how to win games, but how to live with integrity. And while this old-school mindset is admirable, it doesn’t come without risks, especially when considering the future financial stability of his players.
If you ask me, I’d say there’s a balancing act here. On one hand, it’s hard to argue against the idea of sitting out and focusing on preparing for the NFL. If I were in their shoes, I’d certainly be tempted to avoid putting myself in harm’s way, especially when you already have millions of dollars in NIL money, not to mention the massive payday waiting in the NFL. On the other hand, Coach Prime’s perspective is understandable too. It’s about respect, loyalty, and finishing the job. It’s also about being there for teammates and showing that you’re willing to fight until the very end.
A possible middle ground might be for both Sanders and Hunter to play a limited role in the Alamo Bowl. Think of it like an NFL preseason game — a few series, maybe the first quarter, to honor Coach Prime and their teammates while minimizing the potential risks. This way, they can show their commitment to the team and still protect their future. While it’s likely that Hunter won’t be thrilled about the idea of playing less, it would be a compromise that balances loyalty with practicality. Ultimately, this is about the players’ futures, and it’s important to recognize that in this new era of college football, NIL money has transformed athletes into pros with significant financial security. They’re no longer simply kids looking to get drafted — they’re already making millions.
Still, it’s worth acknowledging that some of the traditional bowl games, like the Alamo Bowl, don’t carry the same prestige or stakes as they once did. The game may be fun for the fans, but in the grand scheme of things, it doesn’t have the same weight as a national championship or even a major bowl game. That’s why some argue that players like Sanders and Hunter have little to prove by playing in a contest that’s essentially an exhibition. NFL scouts already know what they’re getting with these players. They’ve seen enough on tape to understand both Sanders’ and Hunter’s immense talents. For them, it’s about staying healthy and ready for the NFL.
But let’s not forget one crucial thing — the fans. The Buffs’ supporters, including long-time fans like Miss Peggy, would love to see their stars on the field one more time. It’s about the passion, the memories, and the connection between the players and the fans. And for Coach Prime, this game is likely about one last chance to coach his son on a national stage, maybe for the final time in his college career. For many players, that emotional connection to their school and teammates might outweigh the financial risks.
In the end, the decision is a personal one. It’s about weighing the risks, the rewards, and the values that Coach Prime has instilled in his players. Whether they decide to play or not, one thing is for sure — they’ve already done enough to secure their places in football history. The NIL era has changed everything, but for Sanders, Hunter, and Coach Prime, there’s still something to be said for finishing strong.
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