Deion Sanders is gearing up for his fourth season at Colorado, ready to tackle another rebuilding project, something he’s familiar with.
As spring practice commences, Sanders faces yet another revamped roster, marking the third time in his tenure as head coach of the Buffs. The team will kick off spring drills on Monday, culminating with the Black & Gold game on April 11.
Following a disappointing 3-9 season (1-8 in the Big 12), Sanders vowed changes, and he has delivered. Out of the 95 players on the spring roster, 59 are new additions, with a significant overhaul on the defensive side. CU is left with just 22 scholarship players, with only five on defense.
Additionally, the Buffs will be introducing a new offensive coordinator in Brennan Marion, who joined the team in December after serving as head coach at Sacramento State last season.
Moreover, there will be a change in defensive coordinator, as Robert Livingston recently departed for a position with the Denver Broncos. Linebackers coach Chris Marve, who was hired in December, has been promoted to the coordinator role.
With half the staff being new, alongside the roster changes, the upcoming season promises a fresh start for Colorado.
Heading into spring ball, here’s a breakdown of each position group:
Quarterback: Redshirt freshman Julian Lewis is set to lead the offense after a promising debut season. With competition from sophomore Isaac Wilson and talented freshman Kaneal Sweetwyne, the quarterback position looks to be in good hands.
Running back: Micah Welch returns as last year’s leading rusher, now joined by a healthy DeKalon Taylor and a trio of promising newcomers, including Damian Henderson II, Jaquail Smith, and Richard Young.
Wide receiver: The receiving corps is bolstered by the return of Joseph Williams and Hykeem Williams, along with the addition of transfers Ernest Campbell, Kam Perry, and Danny Scudero. Freshman Christian Ward adds depth to the group.
Tight end: The tight end room sees continuity with key returners like Zach Atkins and Brady Kopetz, alongside new faces like Fisher Clements and walk-on Charlie Williams.
Offensive line: The offensive line undergoes significant changes with the departure of four starters, but transfers like Leon Bell, Jayven Richardson, and Jose Soto look to make an impact alongside returners like Larry Johnson and Demetrius Hunter.
Defensive line: The defensive line sees a complete overhaul with the addition of key transfers like Santana Hopper, Dylan Manuel, and Tyler Moore, aiming to make an impact in the upcoming season.
Edge: The edge position welcomes back Quency Wiggins and Kylan Salter, alongside new additions like Toby Anene and Balansama Kamara, strengthening the defense.
Inside linebacker: Liona Lefau and Gideon Lampron headline the inside linebacker group, supported by transfers like Tyler Martinez and a mix of talented freshmen and veteran walk-ons.
Cornerbacks: RJ Johnson and Makari Vickers return to fortify the cornerback position, supported by veteran transfers and promising freshmen.
Nickel: Tennessee transfer Boo Carter is a standout candidate for the nickel position, alongside other contenders like Donavan Stephens and Preston Ashley.
Safety: Senior Ben Finneseth leads the safety group, backed by transfers Randon Fontenette and Naeten Mitchell, adding experience and depth to the defense.
Specialists: Damon Greaves and Joshua McCormick handle punting and kickoff duties, while walk-ons Elliott Arnold and Daniel Gerlach look to make an impact in the kicking game.
