Deion Sanders’ Transfer Portal Dominance: Buffs Rebuild or Mass Exodus?

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When Deion Sanders took the reins of Colorado’s football program in December 2022, he wasted no time in shaking things up. With the transfer portal as his weapon, Sanders embarked on an unprecedented roster overhaul.

Inbound Talent Floods Boulder

In his first offseason, Sanders hauled in 16 transfers, propelling Colorado’s transfer class to the top spot in the nation. Among the newcomers was quarterback Shedeur Sanders, coach Deion’s son, who is expected to lead the offense.

Sanders continued his rebuild over the winter, adding five offensive linemen to a unit desperate for reinforcements. With protection for his quarterback being a priority, Sanders is set to scour the portal once more in search of additional depth.

Outbound Departures Hurt Depth

While Sanders’ inbound transfers have made headlines, his team has also seen some notable departures. Projected starting offensive lineman Savion Washington entered the portal, leaving a void on a line already struggling to protect Shedeur Sanders.

Deion Sanders coaches against Arizona
Colorado head coach Deion Sanders walks the sideline against Arizona at Folsom Field in Boulder, Colo., Nov. 11, 2023. (Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)

Defensive linemen Chazz Wallace and Devee Harris are also preparing to transfer, as are defensive backs Myles Slusher and Jaden Milliner-Jones. Wide receiver Tar’varish Dawson rounds out the list of departures.

Roster Turnover Under ‘Coach Prime’

Sanders’ aggressive use of the transfer portal reflects his ambitious vision for Colorado. In his first year at the helm, he oversaw a roster overhaul that included 53 incoming transfers and a total of 86 new players.

Shedeur Sanders acknowledged the impending roster changes on X, stating, “Portal opens soon let’s get busy.”

Challenges and Opportunities

Colorado will undoubtedly face some challenges next season as they integrate numerous new players into their lineup. However, Sanders is confident that their talent and hard work will pay off.

Shedeur Sanders vs USC
Colorado head coach Deion Sanders, left, talks with his son, quarterback Shedeur Sanders, before a game against Southern California Sept. 30, 2023, in Boulder, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

The Buffaloes will enter their first season in the Big 12 Conference with a largely revamped roster. After finishing last season with a disappointing 4-8 record, Sanders and his team are eager to make a statement in their new league.

With the transfer portal as their ally and Deion Sanders at the helm, Colorado is poised for a captivating journey in the upcoming season. The roster turnover may present challenges, but it also promises a fresh start and endless possibilities.

Data sourced from: foxnews.com