A graduate of Chicago's Phillips High School, Hinton began attending Northwestern University in 1979 and was originally a tight end. As a true freshman he played in 11 games and caught seven passes for 43-yards.
Hinton, who graduated from Chicago's Phillips High School, started his academic journey at Northwestern University in 1979 and initially played football as a tight end. In his first year, he appeared in 11 games and accumulated seven receptions for 43 yards.