BOULDER, Colo. — The Colorado Buffaloes hit the field for their first spring practice today, marking the beginning of a crucial offseason under head coach Deion Sanders. Following practice, defensive coordinator Robert Livingston, offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur, and quarterbacks Julian Lewis, Kaidon Salter, and Ryan Staub met with the media to discuss the team’s progress, roster changes, and competition heading into the 2025 season.

Livingston Focused on Defensive Growth and Leadership

Robert Livingston, now in his second year leading the Buffaloes’ defense, emphasized his comfort level compared to last season.

“Last year, I’m living in a hotel, doing the biweekly parent-husband life, trying to find somewhere to live. So, yeah, I much prefer this year than last year,” Livingston said. “It’s been over a year and I’m phenomenally blessed to be here.”

The defensive coordinator highlighted the importance of spring practices in evaluating new personnel and developing leadership, particularly at linebacker and in the secondary.

“You never really know until you get on the grass,” he said. “Our job as coaches is to learn the learners. The month of January and February was about getting to know how these guys see the game.”

With the departure of key players like Travis Hunter and Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig, the Buffaloes need new leaders to step up. Livingston singled out Harden Walker as someone who could fill that void.

“This place means a lot to him. If he can step up and take that leadership role, that would be really cool,” he said.

Shurmur Excited About QB Battle and Offensive Potential

Offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur, a longtime NFL veteran, spoke about the transition at quarterback following the departure of Shedeur Sanders. The competition between freshman Julian Lewis, Liberty transfer Kaidon Salter, and returning quarterback Ryan Staub will be a focal point throughout spring ball.

“We went out and got two players that we feel like have a bright future,” Shurmur said. “Obviously, Kaidon Salter, who’s got one year left, is doing a heck of a job. And then JuJu (Julian Lewis) is phenomenal—he’s a young talent, very natural in what he does.”

While the quarterback battle will take center stage, Shurmur also stressed the importance of incorporating tight ends more into the offense this season.

“We got a lot out of our guys last year, but we were in 10 personnel a lot because we didn’t really have the room we needed,” Shurmur said. “Going out to get Zach Atkins hopefully gives us the flexibility to be more 11 and 12 personnel.”

Shurmur also reflected on his role at Colorado and his journey in coaching. “I feel 20 years younger,” he said. “I’m thrilled to be doing this job with a great deal of experience, learning from past seasons, and pouring into these players.”

Quarterbacks Eager for Competition

The Buffaloes’ quarterback room is filled with intrigue as three signal-callers battle for the starting job. Freshman Julian Lewis, who reclassified and joined Colorado early, spoke about his decision to skip his final year of high school.

“I feel like high school football probably didn’t have much more for me,” Lewis said. “Even if it meant coming here young and competing for a job, I just felt like I’d be best getting here as early as possible.”

Lewis is already embracing mentorship from former Buffs QB Shedeur Sanders.

“It’s definitely a blessing to have a guy like him,” Lewis said. “We came in on different paths, but learning from him and seeing his journey has been humbling.”

Liberty transfer Kaidon Salter, who brings experience from the college level, sees Colorado as the perfect fit for his final year of eligibility.

“Coach wanted to see me come in and compete with JuJu, and it’s all working out right now,” Salter said. “The staff here has been where I want to go. Pat Shurmur is one of the best offensive coordinators and quarterback coaches in the country.”

Despite being known for his mobility, Salter made it clear he wants to be viewed as a complete quarterback.

“I came here to throw the ball,” he said. “Of course, I’ll use my legs when I have to, but I want to show what I can do as a passer.”

Returning quarterback Ryan Staub, entering his third season, is using his experience to his advantage.

“The game feels a little slower. The reads are a little bit slower,” Staub said. “Just having years under my belt now, I feel comfortable out there.”

Staub also praised Shedeur Sanders’ leadership and the impact he had on the program.

“I followed in his footsteps and got to watch him for two years,” he said. “He’s a leader by example and brought the locker room together.”

Looking Ahead

With the first of 15 spring practices in the books, the Buffaloes will continue shaping their roster and installing their schemes over the next several weeks. With new faces on both sides of the ball and a quarterback battle in full swing, Colorado’s spring campaign is shaping up to be one of the most compelling in recent years.

The Buffaloes will return to practice later this week as they continue laying the foundation for the upcoming season. As Livingston put it, “It’s our job to get the best out of our guys and put them in position to be successful.”

Colorado fans will be eager to see how this group develops—and who emerges as the next face of the program.