The Colorado Buffaloes are making waves this offseason, and ESPN has taken notice. In their latest Power Four offseason rankings, the Buffs landed at No. 9 among Big 12 programs—a testament to the buzz surrounding Deion Sanders' revitalized squad.
ESPN's rankings weigh three key factors: roster additions (via transfer portal and high school recruiting), player retention, and coaching staff continuity or upgrades. Colorado scored high in all three categories, with significant praise for their transfer portal haul and revamped coaching hires.
Headlining the incoming talent are wide receivers Danny Scudero and DeAndre Moore Jr., along with defensive tackle Santana Hopper. On the flip side, the program did see some key departures, including offensive tackle Jordan Seaton, wide receiver Omarion Miller, and safety Tawfiq Byard. Among the top incoming recruits are cornerback Preston Ashley, receiver Alexander Ward, and linebacker Carson Crawford.
Perhaps the biggest storyline of the 2026 season will be the introduction of Brennan Marion's "Go-Go" offense at the Power Four level. Marion, one of two new coordinators alongside defensive coordinator Chris Marve, brings a dynamic and unconventional attack that has fans and analysts alike eager to see how it translates against Big 12 competition. The defensive additions also boast substantial starting experience, giving hope that the Buffs can hold their own in a conference known for high-octane offenses.
There's plenty of reason for optimism, especially on offense. Julian Lewis leads a unit that reloaded at receiver with Scudero, Moore, and Kam Perry joining returning standout Joseph Williams. The offensive line, a sore spot in recent years, was addressed with seven incoming transfers who bring starting experience. On defense, the Buffs added 25 portal players, many of whom are multiyear starters. Hopper and North Dakota State transfer Toby Anene anchor the defensive line, while All-MAC performer Gideon Lampron (Bowling Green) and Liona Lefau (Texas) are major upgrades at linebacker. In the secondary, Tennessee transfer Boo Carter could be a game-changer under the right coaching, joining a deep group that includes Justin Eaglin (James Madison), Randon Fontenette (Vanderbilt), and several other experienced newcomers.
With so much new talent and a fresh coaching vision, Colorado is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing teams to watch in the Big 12 this season. Whether all this "newness" translates into wins remains to be seen, but the foundation is certainly being laid for an exciting year in Boulder.