A chance encounter on a flight from Denver has revealed the exceptional character of Jacksonville Jaguars’ recent draft pick, Travis Hunter, showing that his impressive qualities extend well beyond his athletic abilities. When Sandy Hawkins Combs was seated next to a polite young man on her return flight, she had no idea she was sitting beside one of football’s brightest rising stars—but his kindness made an impression before his fame did.
Sandy Hawkins Combs was returning home on a United Airlines flight from Denver when she experienced an encounter that would soon capture hearts across social media. Before knowing anything about her seatmate’s athletic prowess, Combs was struck by his exceptional manners and considerate behavior throughout the flight.
“I had the most wonderful flight home from Denver. I met the nicest young man who sat next to me. He offered to put my bag in the overhead compartment and helped me with my tray. He was always polite, saying “yes ma’am” or “no ma’am.” Anyone would be proud to have him as a son or grandson—so polite,”
Combs shared in her now-viral Facebook post.
Combs remained oblivious to her seatmate’s identity until the flight progressed. As other passengers began congratulating him and requesting photos, her curiosity grew.
Combs further added that,
“People walking by were saying congratulations, great job, or even taking pictures. I turned and asked him, “Who am I sitting next to?” I looked at his Jaguar pants, smiled, and asked, “Are you an athlete?” He smiled and said, “I’m Travis. Yes, I was drafted by the Jags.” I already told my sons I want his jersey.”
What particularly stood out to Combs was his consistent politeness.
“He’s so humble and down-to-earth—I would have never guessed he was a professional athlete.
She recounted. These simple acts of kindness and respect demonstrated character qualities independent of athletic fame or public recognition.
Combs remained unaware of her seatmate’s identity until she noticed other passengers approaching him with congratulations and requests for photographs. Her curiosity piqued, she turned to him and asked directly.
This understated introduction to Travis Hunter—the second overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft and recent Heisman Trophy winner—highlights the humility that appears to be central to his character. Despite his significant achievements and newfound professional status, Hunter introduced himself simply by his first name without emphasizing his accomplishments.
Travis Hunter Jr., born in West Palm Beach, Florida, has already established himself as a remarkable talent in football. His journey to the NFL includes an outstanding college career, most notably at the University of Colorado, where his exceptional play earned him the 2024 Heisman Trophy.
Hunter made history as the first two-way player (both cornerback and wide receiver) to receive college football’s most prestigious individual honor since Charles Woodson in 1997.
Hunter’s achievements in college were extensive—he received multiple prestigious awards, including the Walter Camp Award, AP College Football Player of the Year, and the Chuck Bednarik Award in 2024. His talents were so valued that the University of Colorado retired his jersey number (#12) in 2025. The Jacksonville Jaguars recognized this exceptional talent, trading up to secure Hunter as the second overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft.
Beyond his athletic prowess, Hunter’s character shines brightly. Combs described him as “incredibly humble and relatable—I would never have guessed he was a professional athlete.” His actions on the flight—offering help and showing respect—reflect values that persist despite his rising stardom. The New York Post observed,
“Given encounters like this in everyday situations, it seems Jacksonville’s decision to pick the latest Heisman Trophy winner transcended mere athletic ability.”
Even his first post-draft purchase—Jaguars pajama pants—hints at a grounded nature that endears him to others.
The tale of this in-flight encounter spread rapidly across social media and sports news, striking a chord with fans and commentators. “Solid humanity for your day,” one fan tweeted, while another remarked, “It’s what you do when no one is watching. Great football player and better human being.” Sports Illustrated dubbed Hunter “a rare athlete on the field and a rare person off of it,” highlighting how his kindness reflects universal virtues.
For Combs, the encounter turned her into an ardent supporter.
“I already told my sons I want his jersey,”
She declared, adding,
“JACKSONVILLE JAGS, you did good! I will be buying tickets.”
She even thanked United Airlines for the seat assignment that sparked this connection. Her reaction illustrates how authentic kindness can forge lasting bonds, transforming a stranger into a fan through simple, everyday interactions.