Colorado Transfer Jaquail Smith Sidelined by Groin Injury Before Spring Practice

The running back room faces uncertainty as the Buffaloes look to rebound from a three-win season.

Feb. 23, 2026 at 1:56pm

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Incoming Sacramento State transfer Jaquail Smith will be limited in Colorado's spring practices due to a groin strain that is expected to sideline him for a few weeks. Smith's injury is an early setback for the Buffaloes' revamped running back room, which also includes transfers Richard Young from Alabama and Damian Henderson II from Sacramento State.

Why it matters

With Micah Welch as the lone returning scholarship running back, Colorado's backfield is wide open heading into spring camp. Smith was expected to compete for a third-down change-of-pace role, but his injury will force him to play catch-up once he returns to full speed, potentially giving an early advantage to the other newcomers.

The details

Smith's groin strain will limit him at the start of spring practices, which are crucial for the running backs to establish their roles in new offensive coordinator Brennan Marion's 'Go-Go' offense. Young and Henderson II are expected to compete for early-down carries, while Welch and Smith were projected to bring speed and versatility, especially in passing situations. With Smith sidelined, Welch now has a valuable head start in the crowded position battle.

  • Spring camp is almost here for the Colorado Buffaloes.
  • Smith is expected to be sidelined for a few weeks due to the groin strain.

The players

Jaquail Smith

An incoming transfer from Sacramento State who is dealing with a groin strain that will limit him at the start of Colorado's spring practices.

Micah Welch

The lone returning scholarship running back for the Colorado Buffaloes.

Richard Young

An Alabama transfer who is expected to compete for early-down carries in Colorado's backfield.

Damian Henderson II

A Sacramento State transfer who is also expected to compete for early-down carries in Colorado's backfield.

Brennan Marion

Colorado's newly hired offensive coordinator, who previously coached both Henderson II and Smith at Sacramento State.

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The takeaway

Smith's injury is an early setback for Colorado's revamped running back room, which faces uncertainty heading into spring practices. The Buffaloes need all of their new additions available to evaluate the position, and Smith's absence will force him to play catch-up once he returns to full speed, potentially giving an early advantage to the other newcomers in the crowded backfield competition.