BOULDER, Colo. — With just over one month remaining until the Colorado Buffaloes’ annual spring football game on April 19 at Folsom Field, excitement and anticipation are building around a program rapidly becoming a focal point of national attention. Tickets are now available for the showcase, which kicks off at 2:30 PM, promising fans an early glimpse of what head coach Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders believes could be another transformative season for CU.

Sanders held an 25 -minute press conference Monday, joined by emerging sophomore offensive tackle Jordan Season and standout cornerback DJ McKinney, setting the stage for the remainder of the spring practice schedule.

A New Level of Competition

“Playing against your own guys can get monotonous,” Coach Prime saidy. “I would like to practice against someone for a few days before the spring game. I think the public would be tremendously satisfied.”

The Buffaloes’ head coach is advocating for a pro-style approach to spring ball, emphasizing the importance of external competition to gauge true player development. He also underscored the significance of the upcoming Big 12 Pro Day in Dallas, emphasizing Colorado’s deep talent pool expected to attract representatives from all 32 NFL teams.

Coaching Staff Upgrades

Coach Prime’s press conference also featured major coaching updates. NFL Hall-of-Famer Marshall Faulk recently joined as running backs coach, instantly boosting credibility and experience in the backfield.

“Marshall Faulk is arguably the greatest running back to ever play the game, and he’s a bona fide leader,” Sanders said. “He’s doing this because he genuinely wants to help these young men elevate to the next level.”

Gunner White now oversees the offensive line, with former CU star Andre Girard serving as assistant OL coach. The reshaped coaching staff aims to improve run production drastically, a clear point of emphasis after struggles last season.

“This year, we will run the ball,” stated Jordan Season with conviction. “We will impose our will whenever and however we want to.”

Quarterback Battle Heats Up

Among the most compelling storylines heading into spring is the quarterback competition. With Shedeur Sanders moving on, the battle between freshman Julian “JuJu” Lewis and Liberty transfer Kaidon Salter is capturing attention.

“Leadership, seeing the field, and rallying the guys—that’s what we’re looking for,” Coach Prime said. “They rarely huddle in college football today, so leadership from the quarterback is crucial.”

Jordan Seatton Emerging as a Leader

Sophomore tackle Jordan Seatton, despite playing alongside seniors, has notably stepped into a vocal leadership role. Reflecting on his first year, Season emphasized maturity and preparation.

“Never feel like you’ve arrived,” Seatton explained. “My goal is consistency. When I’m tired, technique can’t slip. That’s the mindset this spring.”

Season credited former quarterback Shedeur Sanders for instilling quiet leadership traits through action and consistent excellence, which he now embodies.

DJ McKinney Eyes National Recognition

Cornerback DJ McKinney, returning as one of the Buffaloes’ defensive stalwarts, discussed stepping into a more vocal leadership role previously filled by Travis Hunter.

“Travis inspired me,” McKinney said. “Seeing his awards last year motivates me. I’m putting extra work in the film room and weight room. I want to bring home a Jim Thorpe Award.”

With Hunter now headed to the NFL, McKinney recognizes more targets will come his way, a challenge he’s ready to embrace.

Building a Culture and Talent Pipeline

Coach Prime detailed an ambitious recruiting class, including 31 total signees—14 from high school and 17 via the transfer portal. Notably, this class features 13 players rated four stars or higher, underscoring CU’s resurgence in attracting elite talent.

“Contrary to what people think, we’re doing great with high school recruits,” Sanders emphasized.

High Praise for Coaching Stability

Retaining defensive coordinator Robert Livingston was “priority number one,” according to Sanders. Livingston’s reputation made him a target for other programs, but CU secured his continued presence, maintaining valuable continuity and leadership on defense.

“Rob is not only a great coordinator but also a great person and father,” Sanders praised. “We might not be able to hold onto him after this year, but I’ll enjoy the ride.”

Key Dates Ahead

The Buffs’ busy spring schedule includes critical events leading to the April 19 spring game. On April 4th, CU will host a special pro day at the indoor practice facility, expected to be televised by NFL Network and heavily attended by NFL scouts.

“We’re putting on the best possible show for our fans and these young men,” Sanders said. “We have tremendous talent on this team.”

Coach Prime passionately defended the importance of a spring game, dismissing notions that skipping the event prevents players from transferring.

“Not having a spring game won’t stop transfers,” Sanders said. “If schools want to save money, they should just say that. We’re focused on improving and showcasing our talent.”

Preparing for an Exceptional Season

The cumulative changes—new coaches, fierce competition at key positions, and an elevated recruiting class—point to a transformative spring for Colorado football. Coach Prime’s leadership sets an elevated standard, one embraced enthusiastically by both players and staff.

“The standard is the standard,” Sanders said. “We’re not shying away from it.”

As spring ball progresses, excitement is tangible around Folsom Field. Fans eagerly anticipate seeing firsthand whether this optimism translates onto the field on April 19.

Tickets for the spring game remain available, promising fans a vibrant preview of a team poised to redefine expectations in Boulder and beyond.