Colorado Buffaloes' Lowest Position Grades Revealed

Deion Sanders' first offseason brings changes, but some areas still need improvement

Feb. 21, 2026 at 9:36pm

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The Colorado Buffaloes have struggled to find consistency across their roster since 2024, leading new head coach Deion "Coach Prime" Sanders to make several offseason changes. While the team has high hopes for the 2026 season, an analysis of the Buffaloes' position groups reveals some areas that still need improvement, including quarterback, tight end, and kicker.

Why it matters

As Colorado looks to turn things around under Coach Prime, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the roster will be crucial to the team's success in the competitive Big 12 conference. The Buffaloes' ability to address their lower-graded position groups could determine whether they are able to make a jump in the standings in 2026.

The details

At quarterback, redshirt sophomore Julian Lewis is expected to take over the starting role, but he'll need to quickly learn a new offense under first-year coordinator Brennan Marion. The Buffaloes added some experience at the position with Utah transfer Issac Wilson, but the development of Lewis will be key. The tight end group is led by Zach Atkins, who was solid but unspectacular in 2025. Colorado lacks proven depth behind Atkins, with Brady Kopetz and Corbin Laisure having limited experience. The kicker position is also a concern, as the Buffaloes enter the season without a clear starter after an inconsistent 2025 campaign. Transfer Josh McCormick will be tasked with solidifying this unit.

  • Colorado struggled to find consistency throughout the roster since 2024.
  • The Buffaloes attempted to address roster needs during the 2026 offseason.

The players

Julian Lewis

The expected starting quarterback for Colorado in 2026, a redshirt sophomore looking to build on his experience from 2025.

Brennan Marion

Colorado's new offensive coordinator, tasked with implementing a new offense that will be crucial for the development of Julian Lewis.

Issac Wilson

A transfer quarterback from Utah who will provide experience and depth to the Buffaloes' QB room.

Zach Atkins

Colorado's starting tight end in 2026, a solid but unspectacular pass catcher and blocker.

Josh McCormick

A transfer kicker who will be tasked with solidifying Colorado's kicking game after an inconsistent 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

As Colorado looks to turn the page under Coach Prime, the Buffaloes will need to address their weaker position groups, particularly at quarterback, tight end, and kicker, in order to compete in the challenging Big 12 conference. The team's ability to develop talent and find the right pieces in these areas could be the difference between a successful 2026 campaign and another disappointing season.