9 Eye-Catching Players from Colorado State Spring Practices

CSU held its spring game on April 11, and spring practices are winding down. Here are nine intriguing players to watch based on what we've seen so far.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:56pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the motion and intensity of a Colorado State football practice, with sharp planes of the players' uniforms and the field blending together in a vibrant, abstract composition.A cubist interpretation of the dynamic action and energy of Colorado State's spring football practices.New Britain Today

Colorado State football held its 'Spring Spotlight' on April 11, a pseudo spring game that gave a glimpse of what head coach Jim Mora hopes to see on Saturdays in the fall. While the schemes were 'vanilla' and there are limited takeaways, several players have stood out during spring practices, including running back Mel Brown, kicker Nguma, tight end Vereen, wide receiver Smith, defensive lineman Kelley, and others. The quarterback battle between Oklahoma State transfer Hejny and UConn transfer Farrar is also a key storyline to follow as the Rams approach the 2026 season.

Why it matters

Colorado State is looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season under new head coach Jim Mora. These spring standouts could play key roles in the Rams' efforts to return to the top of the Mountain West Conference in 2026.

The details

Several players have impressed during Colorado State's spring practices, including running back Mel Brown, a UConn transfer who looks to be the front-runner to be the Rams' top back. Kicker Nguma, also a UConn transfer, has shown a strong leg and could solidify the Rams' kicking game after struggles last season. Tight end Vereen, another UConn transfer, is part of a tall, mobile group of tight ends who will be important in both the blocking and passing game. Wide receiver Smith, a UConn transfer, has made several big plays and could be a key target. On defense, lineman Kelley has impressed with his size, strength, and athleticism. The quarterback battle between Oklahoma State transfer Hejny and UConn transfer Farrar is also a major storyline, with both bringing different skill sets that could shape the Rams' offense.

  • Colorado State held its 'Spring Spotlight' on April 11, 2026.
  • Spring practices for the Rams are winding down with a few practices left before the 2026 season.

The players

Mel Brown

A UConn transfer running back who looks to be the front-runner to be Colorado State's top back. He is a quick, strong, and versatile runner who also has potential as a kick returner.

Nguma

A UConn transfer kicker who connected on 12 of 13 field goal attempts last season at North Texas, including a long of 46 yards. He will look to solidify the Rams' kicking game after struggles in 2025.

Vereen

A UConn transfer tight end who is part of a tall, mobile group of tight ends that will be important in both the blocking and passing game for Colorado State.

Smith

A UConn transfer wide receiver who has stood out and made several big plays during spring practices, showing his versatility.

Kelley

A defensive lineman who has impressed with his size, strength, and athleticism, including breaking his high school's 100-meter dash record.

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What they’re saying

“That's who Mel is and that's why I'm happy he's here with us.”

— Jim Mora, Head Coach

“I grew up a defensive coach and there was nothing more menacing than a quarterback who could extend plays with his legs but still remain a passer. They have an ability to get out of the pocket and remain passers so they're still a dual threat even when they get out of the pocket. As a defensive coordinator, you pull your hair out.”

— Jim Mora, Head Coach

What’s next

Colorado State will continue spring practices over the next few weeks as they prepare for the 2026 season. The quarterback battle between Hejny and Farrar will be a key storyline to follow as the Rams look to name a starter.

The takeaway

Colorado State has several intriguing players who have stood out during spring practices, including transfers from UConn who could play key roles in the Rams' efforts to bounce back in 2026. The quarterback competition between Hejny and Farrar will be a major storyline to watch as the team approaches the upcoming season.