It’s not every day that your program lands an all-conference caliber defensive back, but it seems to happen pretty dang often with Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes. The latest testament to that is the addition of New Mexico State safety Naeten Mitchell, who committed to play in Boulder on Sunday evening.
Mitchell spent three seasons in Las Cruces with the Aggies, redshirting in 2023 and playing in nine games in 2024. After being
thrust into a larger role in 2025, Mitchell burst onto the scene, easily becoming NMSU’s best defensive player and one of the best turnover hawks in the country. Last season, Mitchell led his team in tackles with 93 (58 solo), along with tallying seven pass breakups, four forced fumbles, three interceptions and a pick-six. That statline was good enough to get him second-team All-Conference USA honors.
After a 4-8 season with the Aggies, Mitchell will be trading the desert of Las Cruces for the Flatirons in Boulder. Following the loss of star safety Tawfiq Byard to Texas A&M in the portal, this addition is much needed for Sanders and the Buffs. He comes to CU with two years of eligibility remaining.
Welcome to Boulder, Naeten!
