What's Happening?
In the 2026 NFL Draft, no players from the Colorado Buffaloes were selected. However, five former players from the team have signed contracts as undrafted free agents with various NFL teams. Sincere Brown, a wide receiver, has joined the Los Angeles Chargers.
Brown, who is 6-5 and 175 pounds, recorded 22 receptions for 376 yards and two touchdowns in the 2025 season. Preston Hodge, a defensive back, signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Hodge, standing at 6-0 and weighing 200 pounds, had a productive 2025 season with 56 tackles and 13 passes defended. Xavier Hill, an offensive lineman, was picked up by the New York Jets. Hill, who played for three different schools during his college career, showcased his skills at Colorado's pro day. Arden Walker, a defensive end, signed with the Minnesota Vikings. Walker had 91 total tackles and eight sacks during his time with the Buffaloes. Lastly, Anquin Barnes Jr., a defensive tackle, joined the New York Giants. Barnes had 34 tackles and one interception in his college career.
Why It's Important?
The signing of these players as undrafted free agents highlights the opportunities available for college athletes beyond the draft. Despite not being selected, these players have secured positions in the NFL, showcasing their talent and potential to contribute to professional teams. This development is significant for the Colorado Buffaloes, as it reflects the program's ability to develop players who can compete at the professional level. It also underscores the importance of pro days and individual showcases, where players can demonstrate their skills to scouts and coaches. For the NFL teams involved, these signings represent low-risk opportunities to bolster their rosters with fresh talent. The players' success in securing contracts may inspire other college athletes who go undrafted, emphasizing that the draft is not the only pathway to a professional football career.
What's Next?
As these players transition to the NFL, they will face the challenge of proving themselves during training camps and preseason games. Their performance in these settings will determine their chances of making the final team rosters. For the Colorado Buffaloes, the focus will shift to the upcoming 2026 season, where they aim to improve upon their 3-9 record from 2025. The team will kick off the season against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets on September 3, 2026. The Buffaloes will look to leverage the experience of their coaching staff, including head coach Deion Sanders, to develop new talent and achieve better results. The success of former players in the NFL could also serve as a recruiting tool, attracting new talent to the program.
