Travis Hunter believes in making a lasting impression on those around him, quite apart from his antics on the gridiron! DJ McKinney, the Buffaloes star who transferred to Colorado in the spring portal, could not help but commend Hunter’s unique qualities on the YouTube podcast Life and Football.

McKinney is the cornerback who has taken to heart Deion Sanders’ instruction, “Do what Travis do.” By emulating Hunter’s on-field strategies, McKinney has improved his game technique and deepened his understanding of the sport. Meanwhile, speculation is rife that Hunter and McKinney are going to be the next Terrion Arnold and Kool-Aid McKinstry of the 2025 NFL draft.  

McKinney recalls a memorable moment shared with Hunter

In the 2024 season, McKinney shared how his decision to join the Buffaloes program was influenced by Coach Prime. However, it was his interaction with Hunter that truly transformed his experience. On the podcast, McKinney recounted a special moment with Hunter, a moment that encapsulated the unique bond Hunter shares with his teammates. McKinney said, “It was one play, the receiver would fare the least he put his arm on the receiver and looking for a bow. I never did anything like that, it was my first time.”

Hardly did the cornerback realize that he would soon be the lucky one to receive Hunter’s helping hand. As McKinney recalled, “It was another instance when I am gone at Travis, he is on the offense side of the ball, lined up telling me how to perfect my technique.” It reminds us of the bond that two Alabama players share.  

Arnold and McKinstry’s shared goals

Kool-Aid McKinstry and Terrion Arnold have been inseparable since they started their careers at Crimson Tide. McKinstry seemed the most likely first pick at the beginning of last season. However, Arnold’s rapid rise in value has put him in the running to be the first cornerback chosen. Regardless, their close bond remains unaffected.

After performing at the Alabama Pro Day, McKinstry shared, “That’s my brother man, I wouldn’t even say it’s competing. We do this everyday. We’ve been doing this since we got here. We look at it like we’re making each other better.” Arnold highlighted how friendship reigned supreme between the two. “When we came in here we took a pact here to each other and said we were going to motivate each other to become better and push each other to become better.”

Similarly, Hunter does it all to make things easy for McKinney since it’s his first time in the Colorado Buffaloes. While it was initially believed that the cornerback would compete with Cormani McClain for a starting spot, it now seems to be more of a Hunter vs. McKinney hype. It is now to be seen if the situation arises and how cordial the two Buffs will be toward each other.