BOULDER, Colo. — The energy in Boulder feels different this summer.
With new faces taking over key roles and a coaching staff anchored by Robert Livingston, the Colorado Buffaloes are entering training camp with something to prove. This isn’t a rebuild. It’s a reset—with leadership, culture, and physicality at the center.
Livingston, along with veteran defenders D.J. McKinney and Carter Stoutmire, gave insight into how this team is developing an identity without the household names of the past. The Buffaloes may have lost stars to the NFL, but the foundation they left behind is now fueling a new core.
Culture and Competition
Defensive coordinator Robert Livingston described the atmosphere in camp as intense and personal. “The best player plays. Period,” he said, making it clear that no name, transfer rating, or reputation will dictate who sees the field.
That merit-based mindset extends through every position group. Livingston praised the competition across the defense, especially in the linebacker room. He called it “uber-competitive,” crediting position coach Andre’ Hart for developing a group that’s hungry, vocal, and versatile. With jobs up for grabs, players are rotating through packages and being tested mentally and physically.
Leadership is beginning to surface naturally, Livingston said. Guys like Arden Walker, who brings a deep emotional connection to the program, are stepping up. And returners like McKinney and Stoutmire are growing into veteran voices—not just with their words, but with their daily effort.
Secondary Stepping Forward
Cornerback D.J. McKinney has made the leap from rotational contributor to tone-setter in the defensive backfield. “The trust the coaches have in me—it means everything,” he said. McKinney has embraced a leadership role, helping mentor a younger group while sharpening his own ball skills and footwork.
He praised the new defensive additions for buying in quickly and locking in mentally. The chemistry, he said, didn’t take long to click.
McKinney also credited the staff and culture for making the transition easier. “We all want the same thing. That helps you push harder,” he said.
Meanwhile, Carter Stoutmire has solidified his position at safety after moving around between roles last season. Now fully focused on one spot, he’s studying film like a veteran and showing his ability to disguise coverages, support the run, and lead communication on the back end.
“I was thrown into the fire last year,” Stoutmire said. “Now I’ve had time to actually learn the position.”
His versatility remains a weapon—coaches know they can move him to nickel or corner if needed—but he’s becoming the anchor at safety.
Built in the Weight Room
One of the most noticeable differences from last year? The size and speed across the roster. Both McKinney and Stoutmire said strength coach Maurice “Coach Sweezy” Sims deserves major credit.
Stoutmire described the workouts as “garage-style”—gritty, intense, and designed to build toughness. These aren’t made-for-camera sessions. They’re foundational.
McKinney pointed out that the offensive and defensive lines in particular are significantly bigger. But it’s not just mass—it’s mobility. Players are quicker, more agile, and conditioned for longer reps and faster tempo.
Beyond the gains, the weight room has become a source of team unity. Players push each other daily, competing not just for starting jobs but for pride. “It carries over to the field,” Stoutmire said. “You know who’s really committed.”
Locked In for 2025
With fresh faces at key positions, including quarterback, there are still questions to answer. But Livingston views it as a benefit. The defense is being forced to adjust to multiple quarterback styles, learning to stay disciplined through improvisation and varied tempo. That variety, he said, is sharpening their awareness and flexibility.
The expectations around the program remain high. National interest hasn’t faded, and Livingston knows the spotlight brings both pressure and opportunity. “We’ve got to win,” he said. “Simple as that.”
But this year’s group isn’t concerned with the cameras. They’re focused on the work. The staff believes this defense can be not only improved—but elite. And the players are backing that belief up with effort.
McKinney and Stoutmire aren’t waiting for someone else to lead. They are the new voice of the Colorado defense. And this fall, they plan to prove the program isn’t just surviving the transition—it’s building something even stronger.
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