Deion Sanders faces a pivotal period in the coming months, with decisions that could shape the future of Colorado football. From evaluating player movements to navigating staff changes and addressing persistent rumors about his own career trajectory, Sanders’ leadership will be under scrutiny. This offseason presents not just challenges, but opportunities to reinforce the foundation he’s been building in Boulder.

A significant focus lies in determining where key players like Shedeur Sanders, Shilo Sanders, Travis Hunter, and Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig will continue their football journeys at the next level. The decisions other players make—whether to declare for the NFL Draft, transfer, or return for another season—will heavily influence the program’s outlook for 2025. Equally important will be Sanders’ approach to the transfer portal, both in terms of retaining talent and attracting new additions to strengthen the roster.

One of the more immediate developments has been the departure of offensive line coach Phil Loadholt and defensive ends coach Vincent Dancy to Mississippi State. While losing these two coaches may seem like a setback, Sanders has consistently framed such moves as a sign of success. He views his coaching staff as a launching pad, where talented assistants earn opportunities for advancement. This philosophy underscores his belief in cultivating leadership within his program, and he openly welcomes the prospect of his coaches progressing to larger roles.

However, not all coaching departures are created equal. While Loadholt and Dancy’s exits are notable, the potential loss of defensive coordinator Robert Livingston looms larger. Sanders has openly acknowledged Livingston’s value and expects that his success will draw interest from other programs. If Livingston departs, Sanders’ response will likely mirror his usual refrain—embracing the cycle of growth and promotion.

Yet, the most intriguing coaching figure in Boulder might not even hold an official title beyond Graduate Assistant: Warren Sapp. The Hall of Fame defensive tackle has quickly become a vital presence on the coaching staff, embodying both the energy and experience that resonate deeply with players. His influence on Colorado’s defensive front cannot be overstated, with Sapp helping to instill a mentality of aggression and dominance that paid dividends in the Buffs’ improved defensive performances.

Sapp’s mantra, “Earn the right to rush the QB,” became a guiding principle for the defensive line, contributing to a noticeable reduction in opponents’ rushing yards. The correlation between Colorado’s ability to stifle the run and their overall competitiveness was clear. When opposing running backs were held in check, the Buffs had a chance to win. Conversely, games where the run defense faltered—like against Nebraska and Kansas—exposed vulnerabilities that ultimately cost Colorado victories.

Sapp’s presence extends beyond schematics. His charisma and stature as a football legend command attention and respect from players. Many of Colorado’s defensive linemen gravitate towards him, eager to absorb his knowledge and motivated by his relentless energy. This dynamic between Sapp and defensive line coach Damione Lewis has created a complementary coaching tandem, blending Lewis’ authoritative leadership with Sapp’s infectious enthusiasm.

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The departure of Dancy creates a natural opening for Sapp to step into a more formal role. Promoting Sapp to defensive ends coach would not only reward his contributions but also ensure continuity in the defensive front’s development. Such a move could help stabilize the program during an offseason likely to be filled with speculation about Sanders’ long-term future at Colorado.

In many ways, Sapp mirrors Sanders’ impact on the program. Both are larger-than-life figures whose influence transcends the X’s and O’s. Just as Sanders’ celebrity status draws recruits and energizes the fanbase, Sapp’s reputation as a fierce competitor and mentor resonates with players on the defensive side of the ball. The opportunity to learn from two Hall of Famers is a rare privilege that few college programs can offer.

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As Sanders navigates the next several months, securing Sapp’s place on the staff could provide a stabilizing force amid the whirlwind of offseason changes. It’s a move that aligns with Sanders’ broader philosophy—empowering those around him to lead, succeed, and eventually ascend. In doing so, Sanders not only strengthens Colorado’s immediate prospects but also solidifies the long-term vision for the program, ensuring that the Buffaloes remain a force in college football for years to come.

After a season-ending loss in the Alamo Bowl to BYU, the Colorado football program is officially kicking off their post-Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders era, as the star duo is expected to be among the top selections in the 2025 NFL draft.

The Buffaloes’ heir apparent to Sanders – 5-star recruit Julian “JuJu” Lewis – who already dressed for practice with the team ahead of the Alamo Bowl, has now made his first NIL move as Colorado’s next Heisman hopeful.

The record-setting signal caller from Carrollton High School (Carrollton, GA) signed with fan-driven NIL platform Fanstake, that directly involves fans in recruiting top players and retaining transfer targets.

Marking his first equity deal in the NIL space, Lewis becomes the inaugural athlete to partner with Fanstake, that allows fans to pledge financial support – or “stakes” – to athletes they want to join or stay with their college team.

“This is a chance to bring the fans in and really build something special here in Colorado,” Lewis said. “I’m all about winning, and with Fanstake, we can tap into the electric energy here in Boulder and give everyone a way to help us build a championship team.”

According to Fanstake, if the athlete commits to the school, the funds are used to finalize a NIL endorsement deal for them. However, if the athlete chooses a different path elsewhere, fans’ pledged funds are credited back to them.

“Our partnership with Julian really shows what we’re all about – supporting athletes and building strong teams while making sure every player gets the recognition they deserve,” said Greg Glass, CEO and Co-Founder of Fanstake. “What I admire about JuJu is that he gets that NIL is about influence, not just money. This isn’t just about him; it’s about using his NIL to lift up his teammates and help everyone know their worth. His ability to leverage his position to influence other recruits really highlights his strong leadership.”

Lewis’ NIL portfolio was already booming as a high schooler, with deals including Leaf Trading Cards – that he showcased during his live commitment to Colorado on ESPN’s The Pat McAfee Show – Alo Yoga, Cactus Jack and JAXXON, among others.

The Buffaloes finished a historic season at 9-4 – with Hunter earning the Heisman Trophy, AP Player of the Year, Walter Camp Player of the Year, Chuck Bednarik Award, Biletnikoff Award, Lott IMPACT Trophy and Paul Hornung Award honors – setting the stage for the next great Colorado superstar. Fans believe Lewis – who was originally committed to Lincoln Riley and USC – could be it.

The Gatorade Georgia Player of the Year finished his junior season – which he reclassified to senior – with 11,010 yards and 144 touchdowns across his career. Lewis and Colorado kick off the 2025 season on Aug. 30 when they host Georgia Tech.