Griffin Honored as NFL Top 100 Showcases Heisman Talent; Hunter’s Debut Looms

Heisman Legacy Endures as the football world celebrates both the storied past and promising future of Heisman Trophy winners. From honoring Archie Griffin’s historic achievement to anticipating Travis Hunter’s NFL debut, the Heisman’s impact on the sport remains undeniable. The NFL Top 100 list further solidifies this legacy, showcasing the continued success of Heisman talents at the professional level.

Griffin Honored: A Heisman Milestone

Archie Griffin, the Ohio State legend and the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner, was recently celebrated for the 50th anniversary of his remarkable 1975 Heisman win. The celebration took place during Ohio State’s 2025 season-opening game against No. 1 Texas in Columbus, Ohio. This momentous occasion not only honored Griffin’s legacy but also served as an inspiration for the current Buckeyes team. The tribute included Griffin inaugurating a new tradition as the Buckeyes’ first-ever pregame Victory Bell ringer, a symbolic gesture connecting the past and present of Ohio State football.

A Lasting Impact

Griffin’s influence extends far beyond his playing days. His dedication to Ohio State and his enduring connection to the Heisman Trophy represent the pinnacle of college football achievement. The 2025 ceremony highlighted the importance of honoring the history of the sport and the individuals who have shaped it. By involving Griffin in the pregame festivities, Ohio State created a memorable moment that resonated with fans and players alike.

NFL Top 100: Heisman Influence Prevails

The NFL’s annual Top 100 Players list for 2025, a compilation based on votes from fellow players, prominently features several Heisman Trophy recipients, demonstrating the award’s ability to identify future NFL stars. Two-time MVP Lamar Jackson, a Heisman winner, secured the No. 2 spot, reaffirming his status as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks. Jackson’s dynamic playing style and leadership qualities have made him a perennial contender for the top spot on the list.

Top Ten Domination

Joining Jackson in the top ten are other notable Heisman winners, including Joe Burrow (No. 6) and Derrick Henry (No. 7). Burrow, the Cincinnati Bengals’ star quarterback, has quickly established himself as one of the league’s most promising talents, leading his team to Super Bowl contention. Henry, the Tennessee Titans’ powerful running back, continues to defy expectations with his punishing running style and consistent production. Their presence in the top ten underscores the Heisman Trophy’s predictive power for professional success, as these players have translated their college dominance into NFL stardom.

Hunter’s Debut: Two-Way Talent Emerges

Adding to the Heisman excitement is the highly anticipated NFL regular season debut of Jacksonville Jaguars rookie Travis Hunter. The reigning Heisman Trophy winner and No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Hunter is poised to make his mark as a rare two-way player, contributing on both offense and defense. His versatility has generated significant buzz, with many eager to see how he will perform at the professional level. Hunter’s debut is scheduled for Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season against the Carolina Panthers at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville.

Preseason Performance and Role Speculation

Hunter’s journey to the NFL has been closely watched, particularly after his impressive two-way performance in college. He made his preseason debut on August 9, 2025, against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he saw action on both offense and defense. According to preseason reports, he recorded two catches for nine yards in ten offensive snaps. The Jaguars’ decision to list him as a starting wide receiver and a backup cornerback for Week 1 has sparked debate, with some advocating for him to fully embrace his two-way potential. Head coach Liam Coen has cited Hunter’s offensive performance in the preseason as a factor in his role, suggesting that his contributions on that side of the ball have earned him a prominent position.

A Versatile Weapon

The looming debut of Hunter is generating significant buzz, as his versatility is expected to be a key factor in the Jaguars’ 2025 season. Some analysts speculate that he could help make them a “surprise contender,” given his unique skill set. The way the Jaguars deploy their unique weapon, balancing his offensive and defensive responsibilities, will be a major storyline to watch as the NFL season kicks off. The team’s ability to maximize Hunter’s potential could significantly impact their success this season.

Heisman’s Enduring Influence

From Archie Griffin’s legacy celebration to Travis Hunter’s highly anticipated debut and the continued success of Heisman winners in the NFL Top 100, the Heisman Trophy’s influence on football remains undeniable. The award not only recognizes exceptional college players but also serves as a predictor of future NFL success. As Travis Hunter steps onto the field, the football world will be watching to see if he can live up to the high expectations set by his Heisman predecessors, further solidifying the trophy’s enduring legacy.