### Colorado Honors Legacy: Retires Jerseys of Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter The University of Colorado has made headlines by retiring the jersey numbers of two of its most prominent football players, Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter, during a ceremony at the annual Black and Gold Day spring football game. This event not only marks a significant moment for the players but also highlights the ongoing legacy of the Colorado Buffaloes football program. The decision to retire the numbers—No. 2 for Shedeur Sanders and No. 12 for Travis Hunter—has sparked discussions about the criteria for such honors, especially given the relatively short time both players spent at the university. Additionally, plans for a statue honoring former coach Bill McCartney, who led the team to a national championship in 1990, were also announced, further emphasizing the program's rich history and commitment to honoring its past [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6293077/2025/04/19/travis-hunter-shedeur-sanders-jersey-retirement-colorado]. ### Structure of the Response 1. **Overview of the Jersey Retirement Ceremony** - The ceremony took place on April 19, 2025, before the spring game at Folsom Field. - Both players are expected to enter the NFL Draft, marking a transition from college to professional football [https://www.si.com/college/colorado/football/watch-shedeur-sanders-travis-hunter-jersey-retirement-ceremony-colorado-buffaloes-spring-game-numbers-nfl-draft]. 2. **Controversy Surrounding the Decision** - The decision to retire the jerseys has faced criticism, with some former players and fans arguing that it is premature and reflects favoritism due to Deion Sanders being the head coach and Shedeur being his son [https://www.denverpost.com/2025/04/19/shedeur-sanders-travis-hunter-jerseys-retired-cu-buffs]. - Deion Sanders addressed these concerns, emphasizing the players' contributions and the need to honor their achievements [https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2025/04/17/deion-sanders-addresses-backlash-decision-retire-jersey-numbers/83143235007]. 3. **Significance of the Players' Achievements** - Travis Hunter won the Heisman Trophy in 2024, while Shedeur Sanders set multiple program records during his tenure [https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/colorado-to-retire-jersey-numbers-of-travis-hunter-shedeur-sanders-as-deion-sanders-buffs-host-spring-game]. - Their performances have left a lasting impact on the program, justifying the honor despite the short duration of their college careers [https://www.si.com/college/colorado/football/shedeur-sanders-travis-hunter-jerseys-retired-colorado-buffaloes-spring-game-numbers-deion-sanders-nfl-draft]. 4. **Future Plans for the Program** - The announcement of a statue for Bill McCartney signifies a commitment to honoring the program's history and its influential figures [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6293077/2025/04/19/travis-hunter-shedeur-sanders-jersey-retirement-colorado]. - This move aims to bridge the past and present, ensuring that the legacy of Colorado football continues to inspire future generations [https://www.si.com/college/colorado/football/shedeur-sanders-travis-hunter-jersey-retirement-causes-controversy-colorado-buffaloes-deion-sanders-nfl-draft-spring-game]. ### Summary of Findings **In conclusion, the retirement of Shedeur Sanders' and Travis Hunter's jersey numbers at the University of Colorado represents a significant moment in college football, reflecting both the players' exceptional contributions and the ongoing legacy of the program.** 1. The ceremony was well-attended and celebrated the players' achievements as they transition to the NFL. 2. Controversy arose regarding the timing and perceived favoritism in the decision to retire their jerseys. 3. Both players have made substantial impacts on the program, justifying the honors despite their brief college careers. 4. Plans for a statue of Bill McCartney further emphasize the importance of honoring the history and legacy of Colorado football. This event not only honors the players but also sets a precedent for how future achievements may be recognized within the program [https://www.si.com/college/colorado/football/shedeur-sanders-travis-hunter-jersey-retirement-causes-controversy-colorado-buffaloes-deion-sanders-nfl-draft-spring-game].